Freelance writer/editor Jonathan Trace (Fukuoka-ken, 2005-08) takes us on a walk around the JET Alumni community for another edition of JETAA Chapter Beat.
- Honolulu Festival Volunteers Needed – The Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaii is looking for volunteers for the 16th Annual Honolulu Festival on Saturday and Sunday, March 13-14th at the Hawaii Convention Center. The JCCH Booth will feature Make-n-Take Hachimaki, a gift shop and a membership information table.
- Awa Odori Dance Festival at UH Manoa – Monday, March 15th, 10:30 to 11:45 at the UH Manoa’s Campus Center Grand Ballroom. Check out this wonderful dance festival as it comes to Hawaii.
- Kujira Hike – Sunday, March 21st, 9:30 at Kujira. Enjoy the sun with a “Let’s Enjoying Kujira” Hike, followed by lunch at Kona Brewing Co. in Koko Marina Center.
- Annual General Meeting(AGM) – Friday, March 12th, 6:00 at Bar 138. Take a look back on the events of the year and look forward to what is ahead for JETAAWA at this year’s AGM.
- Quiz Night – Tuesday, March 30th, 6:30 at UWA Tavern. Win prizes and make new friends as you test your knowledge at this year’s Quiz Night.
- Kaiwa – Thursday, March 11th, 5:30 at 43 Below. Practice Japanese with old friends and some tasty snacks.
- East Bay Nomikai Happy Hour – Thursday, March 18th, 6:00 at the Trappist. This week’s event will have samples of over 25 rotating taps and over 160 bottles of Belgian and other specialty brews, so don’t miss it.
- Joshikai – Thursday, March 18th, 6:00 at Postrio. The next meeting of Joshikai, for women with an interest in Japan, will be a fun networking and girl talk event, with a chance to practice some Japanese as well.
- Book Club Date Change – Thursday, March 25th at 6:30. Book Club has been pushed back one week, so mark your calendars.
- Kabuki Club – Saturday, March 27th, 2:00 at the Rockridge Library in Oakland. JETAANC is forming a new Kabuki Club and the first meeting is in two weeks, so check it out if you’re interested in Kabuki theater or just want to try something new.
- J-Lunch – Friday, March 12th, 12:00 at Thai Kingdom. Come share your love of Japan over lunch with others in the DC area.
- 2010 JETAADC Rally Scavenger Hunt – Saturday, March 20th, 1:00 at Shaw/Howard University Metro Station. Join JET alumni and friends for this year’s scavenger hunt rally around DC. Prizes and the title Rally Champion are up for grabs, so don’t miss out.
- Nihongo Dake Happy Hour – Tuesday, March 23, 6:00 at Cafe Citron. Practice your Japanese and have a fun night out with the gang at JETAADC.
- 2010 Cherry Blossom Festival Volunteers Needed – The National Building Museum is looking for JET alumni volunteers to help with the yukata dress-up station at the Cherry Blossom Festival’s Opening Day Kickoff on Saturday, March 27th.
- Wisconsin Subchapter 4th Quarter Meeting – Friday, March 12th, 6:00 at Perkins Restaurant.
- Yakiniku White Day – Sunday, March 14th, 6:00 at San Soo Gab San. Celebrate the Japanese holiday of White Day with yakiniku.
- Ikebana Workshop – Saturday, March 20th, 1:00 at the Tachibana School in Houston. Mrs. Laverl Daily of the Tachibana School of Ikebana will be sharing her experience and knowledge of Japanese flower arrangement.
- Shunbun Hike – Sunday, March 21st, 11:00 to 1:00 at the Silverwood Wildlife Sanctuary. Celebrate the Spring Equinox with an enjoyable hike through the Silverwood Wildlife Sanctuary. Be sure to bring water and sunscreen and lunch if you want to picnic afterwards.
- Scavenger Hunt – Saturday, March 13th, 3:00 at Oiwake Restaurant. Join JETAASC’s annual scavenger hunt around Los Angeles, followed by dinner in little Tokyo at 6:00.
- Superbowl Hike Rescheduled – Sunday, March 14th, 9:30 to 1:00 at the Greek Theatre.
What happened at your chapter’s event? If you attend(ed) any of these exciting events, JetWit would love to hear about them. Just contact Jonathan Trace with any info, stories or comments.
Freelance writer/editor Jonathan Trace (Fukuoka-ken, 2005-08) takes us on a walk around the JET Alumni community for another edition of JETAA Chapter Beat.
- Hinamatsuri Workshop – Saturday, February 27th, 1:00 at the Lorton Workhouse Arts Center. Anne Cox, a scholar of Hinamatsuri for 30 years, will be heading a workshop on the Japanese Girls’ Day festival. Come and learn about traditional dolls and have the chance to make a pair of your own Hinamatsuri dolls.
- Nihongo Dake Brunch – Sunday, February 28th, 11:30 at Cafe Atlantico. Practice your Japanese and meet new people at this relaxed Sunday get together.
- Family Okonomiyaki BBQ – Sunday, February 28th, 11:30 at Synergy Parkland in Kings Park. Free BBQ and soft drinks in the park, as well as dessert and watermelon provided by the Consulate General. Spend the day outdoors and catch up with old friends.
- Nihongo Dake Dinner – Saturday, February 27th, 6:00 in San Gabriel. Dust off those rusty Japanese skills and come out for a night of food, friends and Japanese conversation.
- Networking Event with Lighthouse San Diego Magazine – Tuesday, March 2nd, 6:30 at Jasmine Seafood Restaurant in San Diego. Check out this chance to meet with local Japanese business leaders.
- Income Tax Seminar – Saturday, February 27th, 3:30 to 5:00 at the Japan Information Center. Bring a pen, paper and your questions on tax issues as the guys at JETAANC are offering to help out JET alumni with questions about filling their taxes after returning from Japan.
- SF Nomikai Happy Hour – Thursday, March 4th, 6:00 at Gordon Biersch. This event is being cohosted by GEOS, so come on out and share in the good times.
- O-Shaberikai – Wednesday, March 3rd, 5:30 at the Holy Grail in Civic. Join in and meet Japanese people living in Canberra and other locals interested in Japan.
- Happy Hour – Thursday, February 25th, 6:00 at the Rustic Kitchen. Come in from the cold and share a drink with friends old and new.
- Nihongo Dake Lunch – Sunday, February 28th, 1:00 at Fuji in Quincy. Enjoy sushi and brush up on that Japanese with the gang at JETAANE.
- Career Workshop – Tuesday, March 2nd, 3:00 to 6:00 NEJETAA will be holding it’s career workshop for JET alumni. This year’s theme is, “Marketing Yourself in a Tough Economy,” so come on out and get a leg up on that new career. Location to be announced.
- JETAA Winter Ball – Saturday, February 27th, 7:00 at the Grange Holborn Hotel. Champagne, a three course meal and a disco with a live DJ make this event one not to be missed. Check it out.
- Orlando Yakiniku and Karaoke – Friday, February 26th, 8:00 at the Shin Jung Korean Restaurant in Orlando. Join the gang in Orlando for a night out and start the weekend off right.
What happened at your chapter’s event? If you attend(ed) any of these exciting events, JetWit would love to hear about them. Just contact Jonathan Trace with any info, stories or comments.
Freelance writer/editor Jonathan Trace (Fukuoka-ken, 2005-08) takes us on a walk around the JET Alumni community for another edition of JETAA Chapter Beat.
- Nihongo Dake Dinner- Tuesday, February 23rd, 7:00 at Congee Village Restaurant and Bar. Come out for the first Nihongo Dake dinner of 2010 and sharpen up those Japanese skills.
- Snowboarding Trip – February 26th – 28th in Killington, Vermont. Alumni, family and friends are welcome to join in on this weekend of skiing and snowboarding up in Vermont.
- JBook Meeting – Monday, February 22nd at 6:30. This month’s selection will be “The Makioka Sisters” by Junichiro Tanizaki.
- Hinamatsuri Workshop – Saturday, February 27th, 1:00 at the Lorton Workhouse Arts Center. Anne Cox, a scholar of Hinamatsuri for 30 years, will be heading a workshop on the Japanese Girls’ Day festival. Come and learn about traditional dolls and have the chance to make a pair of your own Hinamatsuri dolls.
- Nihongo Dake Brunch – Sunday, February 28th, 11:30 at Cafe Atlantico. Practice your Japanese and meet new people at this relaxed Sunday get together.
- AGM Reception – Saturday, February 20th, 8:00 at Cosmo in Cardiff Bay. JETAA Wales is hosting the UK AGM for JETAA UK chapter representatives and members.
- JETAA Winter Ball – Saturday, February 27th, 7:00 at the Grange Holborn Hotel. Champagne, a three course meal and a disco with a live DJ make this event one not to be missed. Check it out.
- Orlando Yakiniku and Karaoke – Friday, February 26th, 8:00 at the Shin Jung Korean Restaurant in Orlando. Join the gang in Orlando for a night out and start the weekend off right.
- Shinnenkai – Friday, February 19th, 6:30 at Nissei Vets Hall. Join PNWJETAA in welcoming 2010 with bentos, drinks and karaoke afterward.
- Kimono Wearing Seminar – Sunday, February 21st, 1:300 at the JACL Office. The Chicago Kimono Club is holding a seminar on how to wear a traditional Japanese Kimono. Bring your own clothes or just come and learn how it’s done.
- Devil’s Head Ski Trip – February 20-21st JETAA Chicago is planning a ski weekend at Devil’s Head. Get out and play in the snow.
- Happy Hour – Thursday, February 25th, 6:00 at the Rustic Kitchen. Come in from the cold and share a drink with friends old and new.
- Nihongo Dake Lunch – Sunday, February 28th, 1:00 at Fuji in Quincy. Enjoy sushi and brush up on that Japanese with the gang at JETAANE.
What happened at your chapter’s event? If you attend(ed) any of these exciting events, JetWit would love to hear about them. Just contact Jonathan Trace with any info, stories or comments.
Freelance writer/editor Jonathan Trace (Fukuoka-ken, 2005-08) takes us on a walk around the JET Alumni community for another edition of JETAA Chapter Beat.
- Karaoke – Saturday, February 13th, 6:30 at Sushi-Jin in Houston. Get into the singing spirit and RSVP today!
- Joshikai San Francisco – Thursday, February 11th, 6:00 at Owl Tree. Joshikai is a gathering for Japanese women and womene with an interest in Japan to make friends and share stories. Author Mieko Mochizuki Swartz of “Shortchanged: A Japanese Women’s Guide to International Romance” will be giving a short talk, followed by an informal networking activity.
- Karaoke Night – Thursday, February 18th, 6:30 dinner at Daimo Chinese Restaurant, followed by 8:00 Karaoke at Music Tunnel KTV.
- Income Tax Seminar – Saturday, February 27th, 3:30 to 5:00 at the Japan Information Center. Bring a pen, paper and your questions on tax issues as the guys at JETAANC are offering to help out JET alumni with questions about filling their taxes after returning from Japan.
- Sake Tasting – Tuesday, February 16th, 6:00 at So Restaurant. The British Sake Association is hosting a warm sake tasting this Tuesday. JETAA members get a 10% discount so don’t miss out.
- AGM Reception – Saturday, February 20th, 8:00 at Cosmo in Cardiff Bay. JETAA Wales is hosting the UK AGM for JETAA UK chapter representatives and members.
- Japanese Conversation Club – Thursday, February 11th and 25th, 6:30 to 8:30 at 1424 Weller St. JCCCW is extending a special invitation to JETAA members who are interested in a conversation get together.
- Happy Hour – Tuesday, February 16th, 5:30 at the Hawk and Dove. Get together and share some laughs with the group in DC.
- JBook Meeting – Monday, February 22nd, 6:30 at a location yet to be determined. This month’s selection will be “The Makioka Sisters” by Junichiro Tanizaki.
- Book Club Meeting – Thursday, February 18th. This month’s selection is “Spinning Tropics” by Aska Mochizuki. Start reading today.
- Nihongo Dake Dinner- Tuesday, February 23rd, 7:00 at Congee Village Restaurant and Bar. Come out for the first Nihongo Dake dinner of 2010 and sharpen those Japanese skills.
- Snowboarding Trip – February 26th – 28th in Killington, Vermont. Alumni, family and friends are welcome to join in on this weekend of skiing and snowboarding up in Vermont.
- Happy Hour Show & Tell plus Karaoke – Wednesday, February 10th, 5:30 at Tajima 2. Bring 1-3 of your souvenirs from your time on JET and share them with the group. The quirkier and rarer the better.
- 2010 Member’s Retreat – Friday, February 19th through Sunday the 21st on Big Bear Mountain. Get away and hit the slopes for a weekend retreat with JETAASC.
- Nihongo Dake Dinner – Saturday, February 27th, 6:00 in San Gabriel. Dust off those rusty Japanese skills and come out for a night of food, friends and Japanese conversation.
What happened at your chapter’s event? If you attend(ed) any of these exciting events, JetWit would love to hear about them. Just contact Jonathan Trace with any info, stories or comments.
Freelance writer/editor Jonathan Trace (Fukuoka-ken, 2005-08) takes us on a walk around the JET Alumni community for another edition of JETAA Chapter Beat.
- Career Workshop – *Date Change* The NEJETAA Career Workshop has been changed to the first week of March. This year’s theme is, “Marketing Yourself in a Tough Economy,” so come on out and get a leg up on that new career. Location and times to be announced. Stay tuned for further details.
- Super Bowl Hike – Sunday, February 7th, 10:00 at the Greek Theatre. Get a little fresh air and exercise before the game, and join JETAASC for a hike from the Greek Theatre to the Griffith Observatory.
- Happy Hour Show & Tell plus Karaoke – Wednesday, February 10th, 5:30 at Tajima 2. Bring 1-3 of your souvenirs from your time on JET and share them with the group. The quirkier and rarer the better.
- 2010 Member’s Retreat – Friday, February 19th through Sunday the 21st on Big Bear Mountain. Get away and hit the slopes for a weekend retreat with JETAASC.
- Nihongo Dake Dinner – Saturday, February 27th, 6:00 in San Gabriel. Dust off those rusty Japanese skills and come out for a night of food, friends and Japanese conversation.
- San Francisco Nomikai and Language Exchange – Thursday, February 4th, 6:00 at Pizza Orgasmica. GEOS is co-hosting this “all-you-can-eat” happy hour event.
- Joshikai San Francisco – Thursday, February 11th, 6:00 at Owl Tree. Joshikai is a gathering for Japanese women and womene with an interest in Japan to make friends and share stories. Author Mieko Mochizuki Swartz of “Shortchanged: A Japanese Women’s Guide to International Romance” will be giving a short talk, followed by an informal networking activity.
- Tampa Subchapter Tsudoi – Friday, February 5th, 7:00 at Panera Bread in the Brandon Towncenter Mall. The Tampa Subchapter will be hosting their monthly Tsudoi, an informal time for anyone interested in Japanese and Japanese culture.
What happened at your chapter’s event? If you attend(ed) any of these exciting events, JetWit would love to hear about them. Just contact Jonathan Trace with any info, stories or comments.
Freelance writer/editor Jonathan Trace (Fukuoka-ken, 2005-08) takes us on a walk around the JET Alumni community for another edition of JETAA Chapter Beat.
- Happy Hour – Friday, January 29th, 6:00 at Fleming’s. Join NEJETAA for their first happy hour of the new year this Friday.
- Career Workshop – Wednesday, February 17th NEJETAA will be holding it’s career workshop for JET alumni. This year’s theme is, “Marketing Yourself in a Tough Economy,” so come on out and get a leg up on that new career. Location and times to be announced.
- Eugene Subchapter Event – Friday, January 29th, 7:00 at Sakura Japanese Restaurant. Spend the evening out with the JETAA Eugene Subchapter group this Friday night.
- Technology Regional Conference – January 29th through the 31st at the Mark Spencer Hotel. JETAA Portland is hosting a regional conference on “Technology and Implementation” to discuss technology and how it can benefit all JETAA Chapters around the world.
- J-Lunch – Friday, February 5th, 12:00 at Thai Kingdom. Come share your love of Japan over lunch with others in the DC area.
- Happy Hour – Tuesday, February 16th, 5:30 at the Hawk and Dove. Get together and share some laughs with the group in DC.
- JBook Meeting – Monday, February 22nd, 6:30 at a location yet to be determined. This month’s selection will be “The Makioka Sisters” by Junichiro Tanizaki.
- Kaiwa – Thursday, January 28th, 5:30 at 43 Below. Practice your Japanese with old friends and some tasty snacks.
- Family Okonomiyaki BBQ – Sunday, February 21st, 11:30 at Synergy Parkland in Kings Park. Free BBQ and soft drinks in the park, as well as dessert and watermelon provided by the Consulate General. Spend the day outdoors and catch up with old friends.
- Japanese Conversation Club – Thursday, January 28th, 6:30 to 8:30 at 1424 Weller St. JCCCW is extending a special invitation to JETAA members who are interested in a conversation get together.
- Shakuhachi Workshop – Saturday, February 6th, 1:00 to 4:00 at the Renfrew Park Community Centre. Mr. Alcvin Ryuzen Ramos will be performing a musical workshop on the Shakuhachi, a traditional Japanese bamboo flute. Participants will learn how to play and will receive their very own hand carved flute made by Mr. Ramos himself.
- Come-and-Try Gateball Day – Sunday, January 31st, 3:30 at the Canberra Croquet Club. JETAA Canberra is hosting its annual Come-and-Try Gateball afternoon. Come try your hand at this little-known Japanese sport.
- O-Shaberikai – Wednesday, February 3rd, 5:30 at the Holy Grail in Civic. Join in and meet Japanese people living in Canberra and other locals interested in Japan.
What happened at your chapter’s event? If you attend(ed) any of these exciting events, JetWit would love to hear about them. Just contact Jonathan Trace with any info, stories or comments.
Freelance writer/editor Jonathan Trace (Fukuoka-ken, 2005-08) takes us on a walk around the JET Alumni community for a special edition of JETAA Chapter Beat.
明けましておめでとうございます！Chapter Beat is back after a short hiatus with this 新年会 special. Check it out and find out where the party is happening near you.
- Saturday, January 23rd, 6:00 at Caesar’s Italian Restaurant.
- Saturday, January 30th, 6:00 in Houston. Celebrate the new year with good food, music, games and your friends at JETAA Texoma. This event will be potluck style, so don’t forget a tasty treat for everyone.
- Friday, February 5th at Coo Izakaya in Civic.
- Sunday, January 31st, 5:00 to 7:00 at a Japanese Restaurant as yet to be determined.
- Japan Young Professionals Shinnenkai – Tuesday, January 26th, 6:00 at V Bar. The JYPG is hosting its first networking event of the new year, don’t miss it.
- JETAA Shinnenkai – The new year celebration happens on February 19th, so mark your calendar now. More details to follow for this night of food, fun and festivities.
- Saturday, January 30th, 6:00 at the Unitrin Building. The 7th annual new year’s celebration kicks off in two weeks with food, games, Japanese music, gyotaku fish painting and more.
- Saturday, January 30th, 7:00 at Naniwa. Usher in the new year with all you can eat shabu shabu and all you can drink beer and sake with your friends at JETAANY.
- Tampa Subchapter – Sunday, January 24th, 5:30 in Tampa. Get together with alumni and friends to celebrate the new year.
- Saturday, January 30th, 7:00 at the Portland City Grill. This year’s Shinnenkai is being combined with the Sautrday evening regional conference reception hosted by CLAIR, so join in for some fun, food and prizes.
What happened at your chapter’s event? If you attend(ed) any of these exciting events, JetWit would love to hear about them. Just email Jonathan Trace with any info, stories or comments.
Freelance writer/editor Jonathan Trace (Fukuoka-ken, 2005-08) takes us on a walk around the JET Alumni community for another edition of JETAA Chapter Beat.
- East Bay Nomikai – Thursday, January 21st, 6:00 at Ozumo. Join the JETAA NC group at Ozumo’s sake lounge in welc
- Free Kaiwa Class – Starting January 27th, every Wednesday from 6:30 to 8:00 at Golden Gate University, the Consulate General of Japan, San Francisco and the JET Alumni Association of Northern California are sponsoring a free Japanese conversation class. Take advantage of this generous opportunity and brush up on those rusty Japanese skills.
- Super Bowl Hike – Sunday, February 7th, 10:00 at the Greek Theatre. Get a little fresh air and exercise before the game, and join JETAASC for a hike from teh Greek Theatre to the Griffith Observatory.
- Upcoming Member’s Retreat – JETAASC is planning a member’s retreat in Big Bear in February. Expected dates are from Friday, February 19th through Sunday the 21st, more details to come.
- Shakuhachi Workshop – Saturday, February 6th, 1:00 to 4:00 at the Renfrew Park Community Centre. Mr. Alcvin Ryuzen Ramos will be performing a musical workshop on the Shakuhachi, a traditional Japanese bamboo flute. Participants will learn how to play and will receive their very own hand carved flute made by Mr. Ramos himself.
- New Year’s Cooking Class – Saturday, January 23rd, 11:45 at the National Nikkei Heritage. Learn to make authentic Japanese Shogatsu food with Naomi-sensei, including four different recipes and a dessert.
- O-Shaberikai – Wednesday, February 3rd, 5:30 at the Holy Grail in Civic. Join in and meet Japanese people living in Canberra and other locals interested in Japan.
- Nihongo Dake Happy Hour - Monday, January 25th, 6:00 at Wann Izakaya. Dust off that Japanese vocabulary and come out for a night of fun with PNWJETAA.
- Happy Hour – Thursday, January 21 st, 5:30 at Bar Louie. Get together and share some laughs with the group in DC.
- Snowboarding Trip – February 26th – 28th in Killington, Vermont. Alumni, family and friends are welcome to join in on this weekend of skiing and snowboarding up in Vermont.
What happened at your chapter’s event? If you attend(ed) any of these exciting events, JetWit would love to hear about them. Just email Jonathan Trace with any info, stories or comments.
Freelance writer/editor Jonathan Trace (Fukuoka-ken, 2005-08) takes us on a walk around the JET Alumni community for another edition of JETAA Chapter Beat.
- Nomikai in December, Special Happy Hour Fundraiser – Monday, December 14th, 6:00 to 8:00 at Sports Basement. Join JETAANC for a special fundraiser on Monday night. Free drinks, snacks and a 10% discount on all your holiday shopping are just a part of this fun event. Tell your friends and make sure to RSVP.
- 26th Japanese Discussion Group’s – Saturday, December 5th, 3:00 in the Inner Sunset area of San Francisco. This month is Education Month for the Japanese Discussion Group, and the first topic will focus on infant/toddler parenting differences in Japan and the West.
- Tampa Subchapter Tsudoi – Friday, December 4th, 7:00 at Panera Bread in the Brandon Mall. The Tampa Subchapter will be hosting their monthly Tsudoi, an informal time for anyone interested in Japanese and Japanese culture.
- 2009 Bounenkai – Friday, December 4th, 6:30 at Kaname. Buffet style dining, Wii karaoke, and good friends–what better way to send off 2009 and welcome in 2010.
- Seattle-Kobe Holiday Party – Sunday, December 6th, 4:00 to 8:00 at the Pt Edwards Club House in Edmonds. Join the Seattle-Kobe Sister City Association for their annual holiday potluck dinner.
- JBook Meeting – Monday, December 14th, 6:30. This month’s book club meeting will focus on Jake Adelstein’s book “Tokyo Vice: An American Reported on the Police Beat in Japan,” an interesting look at organized crime in Tokyo in the 1990s. Start reading now.
- Bounenkai – Sunday, December 13th, 5:00 at Tono Sushi. Join JETAADC in bidding farewell to 2009 and welcoming the new year with food, games and good friends.
- Japanese Cuisine and Karaoke Social – December 5th, 6:30 at Tokyo Marina. Come out and join the Chicago JETs for some sushi, nabe and other Japanese cuisine followed by a night of karaoke at Lincoln Karaoke at 9:00.
- San Diego Subchapter Yokohama Sister City Holiday Party – Sunday, December 13th, 11:30 at the Bahia Resort Hotel. The San Diego Yokohama Sister City Society is putting on a holiday party, so join JET San Diego and share in the upcoming festivities.
- JETAA SC Bounenkai – Saturday, December 12th, 6:00 at the Brodard Chateau in Garden Grove. Celebrate the end of 2009 with JETAASC. Participate in the Secret Santa exchange and stick around for the Nijikai afterwards.
What happened at your chapter’s event? If you attend(ed) any of these exciting events, JetWit would love to hear about them. Just email Jonathan Trace with any info, stories or comments.
Freelance writer/editor Jonathan Trace (Fukuoka-ken, 2005-08) takes us on a walk around the JET Alumni community for another edition of JETAA Chapter Beat.
- O-Shaberikai – Wednesday, December 2nd, 5:30 at the Holy Grail in Civic. Join in and meet Japanese people living in Canberra and other locals interested in Japan.
- Cherry Picking Trip – Sunday, December 6th in Young, New South Wales. Spend the day in the country, stopping in the small town of Young for lunch and cherry picking. Cost is free except for any cherries you want to take home.
- Western Michigan Subchapter Get Together - Friday, November 20th, 7:00 at Harper’s Bar & Grill. Calling all folks in Western Michigan for this JETAA Great Lakes Subchapter event tonight! Meet the new officers and get together with friends old and new.
- San Diego Subchapter Yokohama Sister City Holiday Party – Sunday, December 13th, 11:30 at the Bahia Resort Hotel. The San Diego Yokohama Sister City Society is putting on a holiday party, so join JET San Diego and share in the upcoming festivities.
- Nihongo Dake Dinner – Saturday, November 21st, 6:00 in Cerritos. Eat, drink and brush up on your Japanese with the return of the JETAASC Nihongo Dake Dinner.
- Thanksgiving Sunday Hike – Sunday, November 29th, 10:00 on the “Rain Forest Trail.” Work off those holiday pounds with some time outdoors with JETAASC, weather permitting.
- JETAA SC Bounenkai – Saturday, December 12th. Details coming soon, stay tuned.
- 2009 Bounenkai – Friday, December 4th, 6:30 at Kaname. Buffet style dining, Wii karaoke, and good friends–what better way to send off 2009 and welcome in 2010.
- 2009 Bounenkai and Quarterly Meeting – Thursday, December 3rd, 6:30 at the Cha-an Tea House. Join JETAA New York in marking the close of 2009. A small welcoming for the newly elected members to the Board of directors and farewells for the outgoing members will also take place.
- Book Club Meeting – Tuesday, December 8th, 7:00. This month’s discussion centers around Yoko Ogawa’s “The Diving Pool.” Don’t forget to bring some discussion questions for the group.
- 2009 Bounenkai – Saturday, December 5th, 6:00 at Bush Garden. Get together with old friends and bid farewell to 2009. Karaoke to follow the event, so don’t miss out.
- “Japan Through Our Eyes,” JETAA DC Photo Exhibit – Thursday, December 3rd, 6:30 at the Embassy of Japan’s Japan Information & Culture Center. Experience Japan and the JET Programme again through pictures taken and submitted by former JET participants. Stop by Thursday for an opening lecture and reception.
- JBook Meeting – Monday, December 14th, 6:30. This month’s book club meeting will focus on Jake Adelstein’s book “Tokyo Vice: An American Reported on the Police Beat in Japan,” an interesting look at organized crime in Tokyo in the 1990s. Start reading now.
- JETAA Chicago Social – December 5th, 6:30 at Tokyo Marina. Come out and join the Chicago JETs for some sushi, nabe and other Japanese cuisine followed by a night of karaoke.
What happened at your chapter’s event? If you attend(ed) any of these exciting events, JetWit would love to hear about them. Just email Jonathan Trace with any info, stories or comments.
Omedetou gozaimashita to JETAA New York on electing its new Board members!
A little bit of context: JETAA NY became a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit entity not too long ago and as a result is required to have a Board of Directors. The first Board was appointed, so this year was the first year that JETAA NY held elections for some positions on the Board. And here are the results:
Each of the newly elected members will serve a two year term.
New Board Members
- Randall David Cook
- Clara Solomon
- Steven Horowitz
- Kia Cheleen
Reelected Board Members
- Shannan Spisak
- Katrina Barnas
Current Board Members
- Evan Hyman
- Sara Beinert
- Josh Saifer
- Megan Miller
Just received a subarashii email from Smitha Prasadh (Tokushima-ken, 2005-07) who is part of an effort to revitalize JET alum activities in Pittsburgh-shi (which is officially part of the JETAA New York chapter). JetWit wants to say good luck to “yins guys” (that’s Pittsburgh-ben, fyi :-) and keep us updated on how everything is going.
A small but determined group of us in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA are attempting to jump-start the JETAA – New York sub-chapter here. We’re located kind of in the middle of a rough triangle composed of New York, Washington DC, and Detroit (all of which are at 200-400 miles away), and would like to restart the subchapter to establish a local JETAA presence, form ties with the Japanese community, and spread awareness of the JET Programme.
In the last couple of weeks, we’ve gotten official permission from JETAANY and established affiliations with the Japan-America Society of Pennsylvania and the Asian Studies Center at the University of Pittsburgh, and we’re currently in the process of choosing officers and getting the word out. (We’ll be putting up a website in the near future, too.) At the moment, we know we’ll be hosting a Nihongo Dake dinner (date/time/location TBA) and quarterly events/meetups.
Like other JETAA chapters, we’re open to all JET alums, prospective applicants, and any friends of the JET Programme. We’re based in western PA, but people in neighboring areas who are also too far from their regional JETAA chapters to participate actively (eastern Ohio, West Virginia, etc.) are welcome to join us.
Any interested parties can send an e-mail to pittsburghrep [/at/] jetaany [/dot/] org.
Smitha Prasadh (Tokushima-ken, 2005-07)
Note: JetWit just checked out Smitha’s website (http://skprasadh.com) and realized that Smitha also does sugoi design work (graphic and web), illustrations and photography.
Freelance writer/editor Jonathan Trace (Fukuoka-ken, 2005-08) takes us on a walk around the JET Alumni community for another edition of JETAA Chapter Beat.
- J-Kaiwa - Friday, November 6th, 7:00 at Hawthorne Lucky Lab. Practice your Japanese and spend the night out with friends at this month’s J-Kaiwa. A nijikai at Hollywood bowl will follow the event for any interested.
- Career Panel 2009 – Thursday, November 12th, 7:00 to 9:30 at Portland State University, Smith Hall room 296. Make contacts, explore the possibility of continuing education and start your job search off right with the folks at JETAA Portland.
- First Ever Eugene Subchapter Event – Saturday, November 14th, 1:00 at Toshi’s Ramen. Newly forming Eugene Subchapter is having its first event over a bowl of ramen. Don’t miss it.
- Volunteer at the JRA Food Festival – Sunday, November 15th, 9:00 to 5:00 at the Kyoto Grand Hotel in Little Tokyo. The Japanese Restaurant Association is holding its annual Food Festival and is looking for volunteers to help out selling tickets, checking ID and serving food among other duties. Help out and share in the fun.
- Nihongo Dake Dinner – Saturday, November 21st, 6:00 in Cerritos. Eat, drink and brush up on your Japanese with the return of the JETAASC Nihongo Dake Dinner.
- Japanese School in Perth’s Bunkasai – Saturday, November 7th, 9:30 A.M. at the Japanese School in Perth. JETAAWA will have a booth selling gyoza and drinks, so drop on by and share in a celebration of Japanese culture.
- Kaiwa – Thursday, November 5th and 19th, 5:30 at 43 Below. Practice your Japanese with old friends and some tasty snacks.
- Asia Society Texas Center Young Professionals Mixer – Thursday, November 12th, 5:30 at Arturo’s Uptown Italiano. JET Alumni have been invited to this month’s mixer. Make contacts, see old friends and enjoy a night out with JETAA Texoma.
- Happy Hour – Tuesday, November 10th, 5:00 to 8:00 at Momo’s Sports Bar. Come on out and relax with the JETAADC gang after a long day.
- Orlando Japan Festival – Sunday, November 8th, 12:00 in Hunters Creek Village. Share in the festivities with JETAA Florida and experience this exciting event. Karaoke to follow if enough people are interested.
- Tampa Subchapter Tsudoi – Friday, November 6th, 7:00 at Panera Bread in the Brandon Mall. The Tampa Subchapter will be hosting their monthly Tsudoi, an informal time for anyone interested in Japanese and Japanese culture.
- Happy Hour – Friday, November 6th, 6:00 at Wann Izakaya. Relax after a long week of work with the gang at PNWJETAA.
What happened at your chapter’s event? If you attend(ed) any of these exciting events, JetWit would love to hear about them. Just email Jonathan Trace with any info, stories or comments.
Update: Turns out that JETAA Southern California has also recently updated its website: http://jetaasc.org (can’t tell if it’s Joomla, Wordpress or something else) (Thanks to JETAA SC Prez Jason Porath for the update.)
This just in from JETAA Northern California:
Hey everyone,
After talking about it at the national conference for I don’t know how long, our new website is finally up (jetaanc.org)! Check it out and let us know what you think.
Rod McLeod
JETAANC President
Meanwhile, JetWit has checked out the new JETAA Northern California website and thinks it’s cho-beri kakkou ii. We also voted for “Easier Navigation” as our favorite thing about the new site. But feel free to vote as you see fit.
On the website topic, you may notice that JETAA Northern California is using Joomla (an open source Content Management System) for its website. Several other JETAA chapters use Joomla as well. Meanwhile, JETAA NY and a few other chapter sites use Wordpress (a blog program which is also a Content Management System for all intent and purpose). Together, Joomla and Wordpress do seem to be the most popular choices among chapters. The primary reason being that they have nice layouts and, once set up, multiple users can easily participate in adding content rather than having to rely on one webmaster to add content each time.
The issue of websites and content management systems will be further discussed at the end of January at the Regional Conference being hosted by JETAA Portland (which I just noticed doesn’t use either Joomla or Wordpress). JETAA NY and JetWit webmaster Lee-Sean Huang will be there to contribute to the conversation along with several other knowledgeable and tech-savvy JET alums.
What does your chapter use? How do you feel about it? Do you have a preference between Joomla and Wordpress, or something else altogether? Share your comments below. There’s no one right answer, so the more feedback provided, the better we’ll all be served in the long run.
Freelance writer/editor Jonathan Trace (Fukuoka-ken, 2005-08) takes us on a walk around the JET Alumni community for another edition of JETAA Chapter Beat.
JETAA Minnesota
- MN JETAA Karaoke Night – Saturday, October 24th, 8:00 at 2nd Floor of the Korea Restaurant. Spend the night singing and laughing with friends at MN JETAA.
- Welcome Back Dinner – Saturday, November 7th, 7:00 at Obento-ya. Don’t miss this chance for some good food and even better conversations with old friends.
- JLPT Proctors Needed – Capilano University is seeking Proctors for the 2009 JLPT on Sunday, December 6th. Orientation is held on November 29th, contact the University to apply.
- Vancouver Island JET Alumni Subchapter Meet and Greet Night – Friday, October 23rd, 8:00 at the Beagle Pub in Cook Street Village. This new subchapter of JETAABC is looking to connect with local members in an effort to connect and get the ball rolling on new events for the future.
- Oktoberfest Happy Hour – Wednesday, October 21st, 6:00 at 39 Grove Street. Go German at this month’s festive happy hour.
- Bear Mountain Hiking Trip – Sunday, October 25th, 10:00 at scenic Bear Mountain. Spend the day outside among the trees and the changing leaves, followed by a German Festival including bratwurst, beer, music and crafts.
- JETAA Chicago Meeting – Friday, October 30th, 6:00 at Noon O’Kabab. JETAA Chicago will be holding officer elections so if you’re interesting in being part of JETAA’s future or just curious, stop on by.
- Spooky Zoo Volunteer Event – Saturday, October 24th, 10:00 to 2:00 at the Lincoln Park Zoo. JETAA Chicago is volunteering at this year’s Halloween celebration, organizing events, handing out treats and helping visitors.
- “The Harimaya Bridge” Movie Night(s) – Saturday, October 24th at 7:30 and Monday, October 26th at 7:15, JETAASC will be checking out Aaron Wookfolk’s feature film entitled, “The Harimaya Bridge” at the San Diego Asian Film Festival.
- Meishi Exchange – November 4th, 6:30 to 9:00 at the Los Angeles Airport Marriott. Join in for JETAASC’s annual Meishi Exchange, an excellent opportunity to meet friends and network.
- Volunteer at the JRA Food Festival – Sunday, November 15th, 9:00 to 5:00 at the Kyoto Grand Hotel in Little Tokyo. The Japanese Restaurant Association is holding its annual Food Festival and is looking for volunteers to help out selling tickets, checking ID and serving food among other duties. Help out and share in the fun.
- Izakaya Pub Quiz Night – Wednesday, October 21st, 6:00 at O-Sushi. Put that intellect to the test with a night of questions, drinks and your friends at JETAADC.
- Career Night and Welcome Back Reception – Tuesday, October 27th, 6:15 t the Old Ambassador’s Residence. Reunite with old friends and former JETs while getting a leg up on career opportunities and connections.
- O-Shaberikai – Wednesday, November 4th, 5:30 at the Holy Grail in Civic. Join in and meet Japanese people living in Canberra and other locals interested in Japan.
- Shobu Cup Round III: Dodgeball – Sunday, October 25th, 11:00 to 3:00 at Golden Gate Park. The Japan Society of Northern California and the JETAA Northern California chapter are facing off for a friendly round of dodgeball. Potluck BBQ follows the game, so don’t miss it.
What happened at your chapter’s event? If you attend(ed) any of these exciting events, JetWit would love to hear about them. Just email Jonathan Trace with any info, stories or comments.
Here’s another update from the JETAA International Conference in Jamaica this weekend. Thanks to one Ryan Hart, one of JETAA USA’s three country reps, for continuing to Twitter live from the conference.
Here’s the link to the feed if you want it: http://twitter.com/jetaausa
And here’s a sampling of the latest tweets:
Web presence discussion from Paul D.about 1 hour ago from mobile web
Day 2- begins! Everyone is excited to get a lot done today!about 1 hour ago from mobile web
The dinner at the amabassador’s residence was beautiful. Ambassador Yamaguchi played a duet with his wife. Mononokehime.about 1 hour ago from mobile web
Thanks to @enfu for all of the great art donated for the conference. We are doing a raffle to win to support @roomtoread.about 15 hours ago from mobile web
We are all wrapped up for day oabout 16 hours ago from mobile web
Discussing the JETAA support of Room to Read.about 18 hours ago from mobile web
Had a busy afternoon of small group discussion on career support, events/activities, community participation, educational supportabout 18 hours ago from mobile web
Freelance writer/editor Jonathan Trace (Fukuoka-ken, 2005-08) takes us on a walk around the JET Alumni community for another edition of JETAA Chapter Beat.
- Little Tokyo Walking Tour – Saturday, October 10th, 10:30 A.M at the Little Tokyo Koban. Learn about Little Tokyo and spend the day outdoors with old friends and new returnees.
- Meishi Exchange – October 29th will be JETAASC’s annual Meishi Exchange, an excellent opportunity to meet friends and network. Stay tuned for more details.
- Nomikai Happy Hour – Thursday, October 1st, 5:30 at Golden Gate Park Cafe. Drop by for this month’s event.
- Japanese Discussion Group “Taboo” – Saturday, October 3rd, 3:00 at a location yet to be determined. The topic of this month’s discussion will be “What Will Happen to Hatoyama Japan,” moderated by Shinya Yokota.
- Happy Hour – Thursday, October 8th, 5:00 at Ella’s Wood Fired Pizza. Stop by, have a drink and a few laughs with JETAADC
- Jbook Discussion Group – October 19th, 6:30 at Teaism. This month’s selection is “My Year of Meat(s)” by Ruth L. Ozeki. Get reading so you can be a part of the discussion.
- Tampa Subchapter Tsudoi – Friday, October 2nd, 7:00 at Panera Bread in the Brandon Mall. The Tampa Subchapter will be hosting their monthly Tsudoi, an informal time for anyone interested in Japanese and Japanese culture.
- Happy Hour – Monday, October 5th, 6:00 at Zake. Start the week off right with your friends at JETAA Texoma.
- Happy Hour – Friday, October 2nd, 6:00 at Wann Izakaya. Relax after a long week of work with the gang at PNWJETAA.
- 4th Annual Imonikai – Saturday, October 3rd, 11:00 in a Cabin near Crystal Mountain, WA. Imonikai is a party up in the mountains to celebrate the arrival of autumn. Breathe the cool mountain air while sipping hot soup and seeing old friends.
- Transitions 2009 Opportunities Forum and Networking Expo – Saturday, October 17th, 12:00 to 5:30 in Kirkland, WA. Sign up now for this year’s Transitions meeting, a job fair and career forum sponsored by PNWJETAA, the Consulate-General of Japan and some local businesses.
What happened at your chapter’s event? If you attend(ed) any of these exciting events, JetWit would love to hear about them. Just email Jonathan Trace with any info, stories or comments.
JET alum Francis Lee took a whole bunch of great photos from the JETAA NY Softball Tournament, held last Saturday, September 12. The winners in the two divisions were Kintetsu and Docomo. (Though JETAA NY was one error away from holding the lead in that game! :-) Special thanks to JETAA NY Vice-Prez Monica Yuki for organizing, to Liz Wanic for captaining the JETAA NY squad and cheering with extreme genki-ness, to Ito-en for once again providing cold, yummy tea drinks, and to all the teams for coming out, having fun and keeping the tradition alive!
Teams (in no particular order):
- JETAA New York
- Japan Local Government Center (JLGC) + Consulate General of Japan in New York (i.e., the parent organizations of JETAA)
- Columbia’s Center on Japanese Economy & Business (ably managed by Jennifer Olayon)
- Kintetsu
- Mitsubishi (featuring Zack Ferguson)
- Docomo
- QUICK USA
- TV Japan (starring Scott & Keiko Hiniker :-)
Dozo shyashin wo mite kudasai!
http://www.columbia.edu/~fl104/Softball
NEWS FROM THE JAPAN FOUNDATION NEW YORK AND CGP
VOL. 7: August 18, 2009
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Online Application for Japanese Studies Fellowships (Deadline: Nov 2)
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The Japanese Studies Fellowship program gives scholars, researchers, and professionals the opportunity to conduct research in Japan.
We are now introducing an online application system for the Japanese Studies Fellowship program. Please note that hereafter, application forms will only be available online.
The deadline for submissions is November 2, 2009.
http://www.jfny.org/japanese_studies/fellowship.html
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Performing Arts Japan (PAJ) Program (Deadline: Nov 2)
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The Japan Foundation is now accepting PAJ grant proposals for the 2010-2011 fiscal year. The PAJ Touring Grant assists the presentation of Japanese performing arts in the US and Canada, emphasizing locations outside major metropolitan areas, and the PAJ Collaboration Grant allows collaborating
artists to create new works with the potential to develop into a touring project.
Applications are due by November 2, 2009 for projects taking place between July 1, 2010, and June 30, 2011.
http://www.jfny.org/arts_and_culture/paj.html
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Introducing the US-Japan Network for the Future (Deadline: Oct 1)
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The Japan Foundation Center for Global Partnership (CGP) and the Maureen and Mike Mansfield Foundation (MMMF) are pleased to announce a new program: US-Japan Network for the Future. We are currently recruiting up-and-coming Japan scholars and practitioners in the US to participate in this program to nurture the next generation of Japan Specialists.
The program will include sustained networking through workshops and meetings in Washington, DC, Montana, and Japan. Please note that applications must be submitted to MMMF.
http://www.mansfieldfdn.org/programs/networkforthefuture.htm
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2009-2010 Abe Fellowship Program (Deadline: Sep 1)
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The Japan Foundation Center for Global Partnership (CGP) provides support to individuals through the Abe Fellowship, which is designed to encourage international, multidisciplinary research on topics of pressing concern.
The Abe Fellowship program seeks to foster the development of a new generation of researchers who are interested in policy-relevant topics of long-range importance and willing to become key members of a bilateral and global research network. Please note that applications must be submitted to SSRC (Social Science Research Council).
Abe Fellowship applications are due by September 1, 2009.
Abe Fellowship Journalist applications are due by September 15, 2009.
http://www.ssrc.org/fellowships/abe-fellowship/
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Announcing the Japan Travel Program for US Future Leaders
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The Japan Foundation Center for Global Partnership (CGP), in collaboration with the Association of Professional Schools of International Affairs (APSIA), is implementing the Japan Travel Program for US Future Leaders to foster a new generation of future leaders in the US with a greater understanding of Japan and its roles in global affairs.
Thirteen graduate students are traveling to Japan from August 15-25 to acquire first hand knowledge of Japan and how it is fulfilling its shared global responsibilities. Students will meet with experts in politics, economics, and civil society and visit relevant institutions including government ministries, think tanks, policy institutes, businesses, and non-profit organizations.
An Activity Report will be forthcoming on the Japan Travel Program in the next newsletter issue.
—————————————————————
THE JAPAN FOUNDATION NEW YORK AND CGP
152 West 57th Street, 17th Floor
New York, New York 10019
Tel: 212.489.0299 ; Fax: 212.489.0409
Inquiries: info@jfny.org
Freelance writer/editor Jonathan Trace (Fukuoka-ken, 2005-08) takes us on a walk around the JET Alumni community for another edition of JETAA Chapter Beat.
- JLPT 1 Kyuu Prep Course – September 16th through November 18th, every Wednesday night from 6:30 to 8:30 at the Japanese American Association of Northern California. Sign up ends soon, so don’t miss it if you’re planning to take the test in December.
- Way of the Sword Event at the Asian Art Museum – Thursday, August 27th, 5:0o to 9:00 at the Asian Art Museum. Part of the Museum’s special exhibition on “Lords of the Samurai,” this event will feature a discussions and a workshop on drawing a sword with one of Japan’s finest masters of iaido, Esaka Sensei.
- San Jose Taiko presents Rhythm Spirit 2009 Concert Series – Friday, September 11th at 8:00 and Saturday 12th, at 2:00 and 8:00 at the Campbell Heritage Theatre. Catch an amazing performance by this world-class performance troupes this fall.
- East Bay Tabehodai – Friday, August 20th, 5:45 at Zabu Zabu in Berkeley. In place of this month’s nomikai, East Bay is doing a shabu shabu tabehodai, so stop by and grab a drink with JETAANC.
- Second City Saturday Sketch Comedy – Saturday, August 22nd, 11:00 p.m. at Second City. JETAA Chicago as well as members from other JETAA chapters will be checking out the America: All Better! sketch comedy performance this weekend. Join in for some politically charged laughs and hilarity.
- JETAA National Conference Volunteers Needed! – Friday, August 21st at the Dana Hotel. JETAA Chicago is looking for volunteers to help with general tasks and note taking at the JETAA National Conference from 8:30 to 3:00 on Friday. Lend a hand and help welcome the other JETAA chapters, JETAA USA, and CLAIR members.
- J-Happy Hour/Dinner – Thursday, August 18th at Asia Nine in DC. Happy hour begins at 6:00, with dinner to follow at 7:30. Stop by for a drink and a bite to eat with the gang at JETAADC.
- Ship for World Youth – The Japanese government has announced that Australia has been selected as one of the countries that will participate in the 22nd Ship for World Youth(SWY22) Program. They are seeking a 12 member delegation from Australian young people between the ages of 18 and 30 from all walks of life to represent Australia in this unique, 2 month cross-cultural exchange program.
- O-Shaberikai – Wednesday, September 2nd, 5:30 at the Holy Grail in Civic. Join in and meet Japanese people living in Canberra and other locals interested in Japan.
- Nihongo Dake Dinner – Monday, August 31st, 7:00 at Takesushi. Brush up on your Japanese while delighting in some sushi and lively conversation.
- JETAANY Annual Softball Tournament – September 12th marks the day of the Annual Softball Tournament. Brush up on those skills and get out the old mitt, sign ups and more information to follow soon.
- JETAANY Book Club – Thursday, September 24, 7:00. The selection this month is “Daughter of a Samurai” by Etsu Sugimoto. Start reading now and make sure to think of an interesting discussion question for the group.
What happened at your chapter’s event? If you attend(ed) any of these exciting events, JetWit would love to hear about them. Just email Jonathan Trace with any info, stories or comments.
JETAASC Election Results
JETAA Southern California is pleased to announce the winners of the 2009-2010 JETAASC Officers elections. Please note, there is a position still open. If anyone is interested in becoming co-president, please contact the current officers or the elections coordinator. JETAA SC will be inducting the next officers at their annual Golf and Installation Luncheon on Saturday, September 12th.
Co-Presidents: Zoran Iovanovici, Open
Secretary: Matt Braaten
Treasurer: Frankie Murphy
Sincerely,
Dominique Eugene, 2009-2010 Elections Coordinator, Email: elections [at] jetaasc.org
Freelance writer/editor Jonathan Trace (Fukuoka-ken, 2005-08) takes us on a walk around the JET Alumni community for another edition of JETAA Chapter Beat.
- English Discussion Group “on Japan” – Thursday, August 6th, 3:00 at the San Francisco Downtown Metreon Food Court. The topic of this month’s meeting is “What you are is what you eat,” covering ideas on diet, organic food, vegetarianism, etc.
- Happy Hour – Thursday, August 6th, 4:00 at Double Decker. Enjoy wings, drafts and good conversation with JETAANC this Thursday.
- Japanese Discussion Group “Taboo” – Saturday, August 15th, 3:00 at a location yet to be determined. The topic of this month’s discussion is “The Month of World War II.” Part II of this discussion will continue next week with “The Atomic Bomb in Hiroshima and Nagasaki.” Join in for this interesting discussion.
- JLPT 1 Kyuu Prep Course – September 16th through November 18th, every Wednesday night from 6:30 to 8:30 at the Japanese American Association of Northern California. Sign up ends soon, so don’t miss it if you’re planning to take the test in December.
- Summer Picnic – Saturday, August 8th, 1:00 at the Mercer Island Luther Burbank Park. Semi-potluck(burgers and hot dogs provided) with prizes, puppet shows and games. Don’t miss it.
- Happy Hour – Tuesday, August 11th, 5:30 at Galaxy Hut. Stop by, have a drink and a few laughs with JETAADC.
What happened at your chapter’s event? If you attend(ed) any of these exciting events, JetWit would love to hear about them. Just email Jonathan Trace with any info, stories or
Via JETAA Florida’s Tampa subchapter (aka 
Freelance writer/editor Jonathan Trace (Fukuoka-ken, 2005-08) brings us a special edition of news from the JETAA Pacific Northwest for JETAA Chapter Beat.
The Japan-America Society of Seattle is pleased to announce best-selling author Robert Whiting as the featured speaker for an August 13 evening cocktail reception. Mr. Whiting will speak about his new book You Gotta Have Wa 2009(Vintage Departures). The event is being held on Thursday, August 13th at FOX Sports Grill.
Mr. Whiting first wrote You Gotta Have Wa (Macmillan) in 1989, reflecting on the cultural conflict between Japan and America as seen through the common sport of baseball. It was written at the height of US-Japan trade difficulties and received considerable media attention, including 3 reviews from the NY Times and a feature in Time Magazine. Mr. Whiting has appeared on such TV shows as Larry King and the McNeil-Lehrer News Hour. Along with being required reading at the Japan Desk in the State Department and a frequent feature in American Universities, it was also a best seller in Japan and named one of the best non-fiction books of the year.
The new book is a celebration of Wa’s 20th anniversary, containing a new introduction and afterward describing the changes in US-Japanese relations and how it can still be seen in the sport of baseball. Special focus is given to the influx of Japanese stars to the MLB, like Daisuke Matsuzaka, as well as the recent unprecedented migration of American managers to Japan, led by Bobby Valentine and Trey Hillman.
In his talk, Mr. Whiting will address the subject of whether Japanese and Americans understand (and like) each other more than they did two decades ago and the how baseball remains an interesting reflection of culture.
Mr. Whiting is the author of several highly acclaimed books, including The Meaning of Ichiro (Warner Books) and Tokyo Underworld (Pantheon), a book about organized crime in Japan currently being made into a film directed by Martin Scorsese.
Doors open at 5:30, with the Presentation and Q&A session held from 6:20 until 7:00, followed by Mariners vs. Yankees, presented on 3 big screen plasma TVs.
Freelance writer/editor Jonathan Trace (Fukuoka-ken, 2005-08) takes us on a walk around the JET Alumni community for another edition of JETAA Chapter Beat.
- Happy Hour - Wednesday, July 29th, 6:00 at Whiskey River. There will be a Wii available, so come relax and play some games with gang at JETAANY.
- Summer Bonfire at Bolsa Chica – Saturday, August 8th, 3:00 at Bolsa Chica. Potluck style BBQ with smores, snacks and drinks provided. Spend the afternoon relaxing with JETAASC.
- 69th Nisei Week Festival - Saturday, August 15th and Sunday, August 16th. This year’s event includes three mini Nebuta floats from Aomori Prefecture and the 1st Annual Los Angeles Tanabata Festival.
- 2009 JET Send Off Nomikai – Friday, July 31st, 8:00 at O! Izakaya Lounge. Don’t miss this last opportunity to celebrate with the new JETs before they head out for Japan.
- Japanese Discussion Group “Taboo” – Saturday, August 1st, 3:00 at Sakurai’s. The topic of this month’s discussion is “The Month of World War II Part I: The beginning of the war: Attack of Pearl Harbor.” Join in for this interesting discussion.
- Movie Night: Tampopo – Friday, July 31st, 7:00 at Narrabundah. JETAA Canberra will be screening Itami Juzo’s classic film “Tampopo” with pizza and popcorn.
- O-Shaberikai – Wednesday, August 5th, 5:30 at the Holy Grail in Civic. Join in and meet Japanese people living in Canberra and other locals interested in Japan.
- JIC Book Club Returns! – Tuesday, August 11th, 6:00 at the Japan Information Center’s library. This month’s selection is “Asleep” by Banana Yoshimoto. Give it a read then drop by for the discussion.
- 2009 JET Program Pre-Departure Reception – Friday, July 31st, 6:30 to 8:00 at the Ambassador’s Old Residence. Come share a few last minute bits of advice to the soon departing 2009 JET Participants.
- J-Lunch – Saturday, August 1st, 12:00. This month’s Lunch is being held on Yukie’s rooftop and is a potluck party.
What happened at your chapter’s event? If you attend(ed) any of these exciting events, JetWit would love to hear about them. Just email Jonathan Trace with any info, stories or comments.
Freelance writer/editor Jonathan Trace (Fukuoka-ken, 2005-08) takes us on a walk around the JET Alumni community for another edition of JETAA Chapter Beat.
- East Bay Nomikai – Thursday, July 16th, 6:00 at Club Mallard in Albany. Drop by this month’s event for a drink, possibly followed by a karaoke nijikai.
- 18th Japanese Discussion Group “Taboo” – Saturday, July 18th, 3:00 at the Inner Sunset in San Francisco. The topic of this month’s discussion is “Health Care System in the US and Obama’s reform plan,” moderated by Shinya Yokota.
- 2009 JET Programme Pre-Departure Reception – Friday, July 17th, 6:00 at the Consulate General’s residence. Catch up with old friends and bid the newbies a fond farewell at this year’s reception. Space is limited so make your plans soon.
- Kaiwa – Thursday, July 16th and 30th, 5:30 at 43 Below. Practice your Japanese with old friends and some tasty snacks.
- Seattle Bon Odori – July 18th and 19th, 4:00 to 10:00(Sunday 3:00 – 9:00) at the Seattle Betsuin Buddhist Temple. Dancing, martial arts, crafts, food and more. Don’t miss it.
- Summer Picnic – Saturday, August 8th, 1:00 at the Mercer Island Luther Burbank Park. Semi-potluck(burgers and hot dogs provided) with prizes, puppet shows and games. Don’t miss it.
What happened at your chapter’s event? If you attend(ed) any of these exciting events, JetWit would love to hear about them. Just email Jonathan Trace with any info, stories or comments.
The Tampa Natsumari was held on July 11, organized by JETAA Florida’s Tampa Kumi together with the Consulate General of Japan in Miamiaa (where JET alum Abby McBain is now the JET Liaison). And according to initial reports it was a big success!
Approximately 150 people attended the event, which was not just for JET alumni but a community event. And Tampa Kumi’s John (the event coordinator and chief emailer) says, “A very big thank you to all of our volunteers. You are what makes this festival possible.”
O-tsukare sama deshita, Tampa Kumi! (If you have any photos, send them on to JetWit and we’ll post them.)
Via JETAA DC:
Greetings JETAA DC members!
We are proud to announce plans to hold a JETAA photo exhibit entitled, “Japan Through Our Eyes: Photographs by JET Program Participants,” which will be held at the Embassy of Japan’s Japan Information & Culture Center (JICC) this December. This exhibit will highlight the works of current and former participants as a way to celebrate Japan and give JET Program participants an outlet for sharing their favorite memories of their time on the JET Program.
The objective of “Japan Through Our Eyes: Photographs by JET Program Participants” is to educate the public about Japan via the eyes of current and former JET participants.
To make this possible, we need YOUR photo submissions! We are now accepting photographs taken in Japan. Full submission guidelines are listed below. Make sure to send your photos by September 12th in order to be considered!
This exhibit is coordinated by JETAA DC, JICC, the JET Program office at the Embassy of Japan, and the Center for Professional Exchange (CEPEX).
I’m very excited that we’ve been given the opportunity to exhibit our photography at the Embassy of Japan. Let’s show the DC area our images from Japan! I look forward to seeing everyone’s submissions.
With best wishes,
Heather McDonald
Ad Hoc Chair
jetaadc_photos [at] yahoo.com
SUBMISSION GUIDELINES
NOTE 1: Please limit your submission to no more than 3 photos.
NOTE 2: By entering your submission you are deemed to have accepted Terms and Conditions provided in the Group Rules, below. Read More
Freelance writer/editor Jonathan Trace (Fukuoka-ken, 2005-08) takes us on a walk around the JET Alumni community for another edition of JETAA Chapter Beat.
- Wilson Park BBQ – Saturday, July 11th, 12:00 at Wilson Park in Torrance. Spend a day of sun and fun with friends, family and the new JETs.
- Studio Square Beer Garden – Saturday, July 11th, 1:00 at the new Studio Square Beer Garden in Long Island City. Have a drink or indulge in one of the many tasty offerings with friends and JETAANY.
- Movie Night: Tampopo – Friday, July 31st, 7:00 at Narrabundah. JETAA Canberra will be screening Itami Juzo’s classic film “Tampopo” with pizza and popcorn.
- Japanese Film Noir – July 16th through August 13th at the Arc Cinema at the National Film and Sound Archive.
- Tampa Natsu Matsuri – Saturday, July 11th, 9:00 to 11:00. Celebrate the summer Japan-style with Japanese food, games and even a yukata/jinbei clothing contest.
- Karaoke Night – Saturday, July 18th, 7:30 at Muse Cafe. Asian style karaoke for JET alumni and new JETs alike, so come out and show off those singing skills for all to see.
- J-Dinner – Tuesday, July 14th, 5:30 Happy Hour, 7:30 Dinner at Asia Nine. This month’s event includes a happy hour and the normal dinner, so drop by and have a laugh with old friends.
- July Happy Hour – Wednesday, July 15th, 5:30 in the courtyard of Hotel Monaco/Poste. Relax after a hot day with a cool drink and JETAADC.
- July Happy Hour – Friday, July 10th, 6:00 at Wann Izakaya in Belltown. Start the weekend right with good friends and a cold drink.
- Seattle Bon Odori – July 18th and 19th, 4:00 to 10:00(Sunday 3:00 – 9:00) at the Seattle Betsuin Buddhist Temple. Dancing, martial arts, crafts, food and more. Don’t miss it.
What happened at your chapter’s event? If you attend(ed) any of these exciting events, JetWit would love to hear about them. Just email Jonathan Trace with any info, stories or comments.
JetWit is happy to share that Brazil’s JETAA chapter has a new Country Representative as of July 1st.
Please meet Cristiane Megumi Hayato, who attended the last JETAA International meeting in Paris last September.
Also, a big o-tsukare sama deshita to outgoing Country Rep Cristina Izumi Sagara, who has done a fantastic job on behalf of JETAA Brazil for the past 9 years, also serving as a JETAA International officer for part of her time.
Just came across a JETAA Hawaii website/blog: http://jetaahawaii.wordpress.com/.
And I found it because they list JetWit.com in the sidebar which led someone to click through to JetWit.
Thanks JETAA Hawaii! Aloha from JetWit-Land!
Freelance writer/editor Jonathan Trace (Fukuoka-ken, 2005-08) takes us on a walk around the JET Alumni community for another edition of JETAA Chapter Beat.
- 2009 JET Programme Pre-Departure Reception – Friday, July 17th, 6:00 at the Consulate General’s residence. Catch up with old friends and bid the newbies a fond farewell at this year’s reception. Space is limited so make your plans soon.
- Unofficial Pre-Departure Reception – Friday, July 10th, 6:00 at Jun Restaurant. In case you can’t make the official reception, why not join JETAAWA to see off the new crop of JET participants and share your experiences.
- O-Shaberikai – Wednesday, July 1st, 5:30 at the Holy Grail in Civic. Join in and meet Japanese people living in Canberra and other locals interested in Japan.
- Movie Night: Tampopo – Friday, July 31st, 7:00 at Narrabundah. JETAA Canberra will be screening Itami Juzo’s classic film “Tampopo” with pizza and popcorn.
- Tampa Natsu Matsuri – Saturday, July 11th, 9:00 to 11:00. Celebrate the summer Japan-style with Japanese food, games and even a yukata/jinbei clothing contest.
- Tampa Subchapter Tsudoi – Friday, July 3rd, 7:00 at Panera Bread in the Brandon Mall. The Tampa Subchapter will be hosting their monthly Tsudoi, an informal time for anyone interested in Japanese and Japanese culture.
- Chinatown/International District Summer Festival Call for Volunteers – Saturday July 11th and Sunday July 12th this year’s Seattle Chinatown/International Summer Festival will be held and PNWJETAA is looking for volunteers. Help your community, spend the day outside and get a free T-shirt.
- July Meeting – Wednesday, July 1st, 6:30 at the Convention Center Atrium. Join in and become an active voice in the JETAA community.
- July Happy Hour – Friday, July 10th, 6:00 at Wann Izakaya in Belltown. Start the weekend right with good friends and a cold drink.
- Next Book Club Selection: Yakuza Moon – JETAANC’s book club will be discussing Yakuza Moon: Memoirs of a Gangster’s Daughter by Shoko Tendo at its next meeting(date and time TBA). Start reading now so you can join in on the discussion.
- July San Francisco Nomikai – Thursday, July 2nd, 6:00 at the Jade Bar. Check out this month’s happy hour. New JETs leaving in August are invited to join and ease some of that pre-departured tension.
- July Happy Hour – Wednesday, July 15th, 5:30 in the courtyard of Hotel Monaco/Poste. Relax after a hot day with a cool drink and JETAADC.
What happened at your chapter’s event? If you attend(ed) any of these exciting events, JetWit would love to hear about them. Just email Jonathan Trace with any info, stories or comments.
JetWit is happy to share that Kate Chevarley is in the process of getting a JETAA Fingerlakes subchapter up and running.
If you live in or anywhere near a Fingerlake (or if you are a Fingerlake), then feel free to get in touch with Kate for some JET alum community (which I have to imagine will at some point involve wine tastings and/or grape pies).
If you have no idea what a Fingerlake is, then read up on the topic on Wikipedia.
Just learned about a terrific blog and resource for UK-oriented JET alums called Isshoni London (http://www.isshonilondon.co.uk/), “the Gateway to Japanese London.” And the best part is it’s written by JET alum Vanessa Villalobos who is also the Communications Officer for JETAA UK.
The site include:
As well as listing of evens covering everything from a Japanese/English meetup picnic in Greenwich to an Okinawa festival to a manga signing event.
You can also follow Isshoni London on Twitter (http://twitter.com/IsshoniVanessa), and Vanessa helpfully includes a list of the “Top Japan-related people to follow on Twitter.”
Thanks to JETAA NY Webmaster Lee-Sean Huang (Oita-ken, 2003-06) and JETAA NY President Megan Miller (Hyogo-ken, 2000-02), below is a link to all of the PowerPoints and PDFs of presentations at the JETAA NY Predeparture Orientation which was held this past weekend on Saturday, June 20, 2009.
http://jetaany.org/2009/06/21/2009-jet-pre-departure-documents/
- Asian-American JETS (Powerpoint)
- Travel In and Out of Japan (PDF)
- Japanese Etiquette (Powerpoint)
- Life as a JET (.ppt)
- Vegetarian in Japan – Vocabulary Sheet (Word Document)
- Vegetarian in Japan – Wallet Card (Word .doc)
- Vegetarian in Japan – Wallet Card (Word .docx)
- Women’s Issues Seminar (.pptx)
If you have documents, or links to documents, from the Pre-Departure Orientation in your chapter, please feel free to e-mail them to jetwit [at] jetwit [dotc] com and we’ll post them here for the benefit of JETs as well as for the benefit of JET alums who will organize future Pre-D Orientations. Also, please feel free to e-mail a write-up about your chapter’s Pre-D Orientation and how it went. Other chapters would love to hear about it.
Freelance writer/editor Jonathan Trace (Fukuoka-ken, 2005-08) takes us on a walk around the JET Alumni community for another edition of JETAA Chapter Beat.
- Pre-Departure Seminar – Saturday, June 27th, 8:00 to 5:00 at Almansor Court. The 2009 JET participants are gearing up for their adventure to Japan, and JETAASC is leading the way with this orientation weekend. Workshops include: Financial Matters, First Time Teachers, Advice on Moving, Japanese Etiquette for Beginners and Jr./Sr. HIgh School.
- Wilson Park BBQ – Saturday, July 11th, 12:00 at Wilson Park in Torrance. Spend a summer day outside with JETs, family and JET alumni.
- JET Pre-Departure Reception – July 31st in Detroit. JETAA and the new batch of 2009 JET Participants are getting together before the day of departure arrives for some guidance, laughter and memories.
- Ask JET Brownbag Lunch – June 21st, 12:00 to 2:00 at Golden Gate Park Arboretum. 2009 JET Participants are welcomed to this informal get together to ask questions and learn about the JET experience by JET alumni. Don’t miss this great chance to learn and share.
- Pre-Departure Volunteers Needed for Workshops – As the 2009 group of JET Participants prepare to leave, JETAANC is looking for volunteers for a Japanese Cross Culture Workshop and a Q&A for New JETs Workshop.
- Natsu Matsuri Summer Picnic – Sunday, June 28th, 11:00 to 3:00 at Golden Gate Park Speedway Meadow. New JET participants, JET Alumni and friends are getting together for a casual ad fun day outside with good food and company.
- 2009 JET Q&A Session and Nijikai - Sunday June 27th following the weekend orientation activities PNWJETAA will be hosting a special pizza dinner and Q&A session for new JET Participants. Afterwards will be a Nijikai at the Elephant and Castle.
- Walk for Rice – Saturday, June 20th, 8:00 to 12:30 at Seward Park. Join PNWJETAA in a free 2.5 mile fun run and walk-a-thon to benefit the Asian Counseling and Referral Sevice Food Bank.
- JETAADC Volunteer Event – Sunday, June 28th, 11:30 to 1:30 at Loaves and Fishes in Columbia Heights. This years JETAA Volunteer Event will be preparing and serving hot lunches for 200 people in need at Loaves and Fishes. Lend a hand and spend the day giving back.
- NOVA Brewfest – Saturday, June 27th at the Morven Park in Leesburg, VA. JETAADC is getting together at this years Northern Virginia Summer Brewfest “Celebration of American Beer.” More details soon.
- Shaitsu Clinic and Workshop – Friday, July 10th, 6:00 at the YWCA Hotel. The Canadian College of Shiatsu Therapy and JETAABC are hosting an event to learn more about the shiatsu experience. Learn about it firsthand and let the stress melt away.
What happened at your chapter’s event? If you attend(ed) any of these exciting events, JetWit would love to hear about them. Just email Jonathan Trace with any info, stories or comments.
Freelance writer/editor Jonathan Trace (Fukuoka-ken, 2005-08) takes us on a walk around the JET Alumni community for another edition of JETAA Chapter Beat.
- Scavenger Hunt – June 13th, location and other details to be announced.
- Pre-Departure Seminar Volunteers Needed – Saturday, June 27th, 8:00 to 5:00 at Almansor Court. The 2009 JET participants are gearing up for their adventure to Japan, and JETAASC is looking for JET Alumni to guide them on their way. Share your experiences, wisdom and laughs with the new crowd and become a volunteer.
- San Francisco Nomikai – Thursday, June 4th, 6:00 at Double Dutch. Cool off and hang with friends at this month’s Nomikai.
- Pre-Departure Volunteers Needed for Workshops – As the 2009 group of JET Participants prepare to leave, JETAANC is looking for volunteers for a Japanese Cross Culture Workshop and a Q&A for New JETs Workshop.
- Kickball! – Shobu Cup Round 2 – Saturday, July 11th, 11:00 to 3:00 at Golden Gate Park. JETAANC and the Japan Society of Northern California are facing off once again in a round of Kickball. Come enjoy some friendly competition followed by a potluck BBQ.
- Sushi Mixer – Saturday, June 13th, 3:00 to 7:00 at the Mirage Clubhouse. JETAA Texoma is hosting a sushi party to kick off the summer.
- Origami Workshops – June 16th, 17th and 18th, from 6:00 at the Consulate-General of Japan in Houston. JETAA Texoma needs a few volunteers to make origami for a Tanabata celebration in July. Come lend your hands and help out the consulate.
- Tampa Subchapter Tsudoi – Friday, June 5th, 7:00 at Panera Bread in the Brandon Mall. The Tampa Subchapter will be hosting their monthly Tsudoi, an informal time for anyone interested in Japanese and Japanese culture.
- Kaiwa – Thursday, June 4th and 18th, 5:30 at 43 Below. Practice your Japanese with old friends and some tasty snacks.
- Winter in the Valley Wine Tour – Sunday, June 28th 10:45 to 5:30. JETAAWA is heading on a wine tour to Lancaster Wine and Black Swan Winery as well as several other fun locations. Join in for a casual day of sophistication and fun.
- NOVA Brewfest – Saturday, June 27th at the Morven Park in Leesburg, VA. JETAADC is getting together at this years Northern Virginia Summer Brewfest “Celebration of American Beer.” More details soon.
- Happy Hour – Friday, June 5th, 6:00 at Wann Izakaya.
- Walk for Rice – Saturday, June 20th, 8:00 to 12:30 at Seward Park. Join PNWJETAA in a free 2.5 mile fun run and walk-a-thon to benefit the Asian Counseling and Referral Sevice Food Bank.
What happened at your chapter’s event? If you attend(ed) any of these exciting events, JetWit would love to hear about them. Just email Jonathan Trace with any info, stories or comments.
Freelance writer/editor Jonathan Trace (Fukuoka-ken, 2005-08) takes us on a walk around the JET Alumni community for another edition of JETAA Chapter Beat.
- East Bay Nomikai Happy Hour – Thursday, May 21st, 6:00 at Conga Lounge. Celebrate summer’s imminent arrival with Mai Tais, friends and JETAANC.
- South Bay Nomikai – Friday, May 22nd, 7:00 at the Tied House in Mountain View. In case you can’t make the event Thursday, come down to south bay for a drink.
- JETAANC Book Club Meeting – The next official meeting of the Book Club is happening in June. The discussion will center around “Silence” by Shusaku Endo. Start reading so you’ll be ready come June.
- JETAA DC Alumni Social Event at Pimlico Race Course – May 23rd at the Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, MD. The first race is 11:30 and admissions is free.
- J-Lunch – Wednesday, May 27th, 12:00 at McCormick & Schmicks. A small get together for Japanese people and anyone interested in Japan.
- Walk for Rice – Saturday, June 20th, 8:00 to 12:30 at Seward Park. Join PNWJETAA in a free 2.5 mile fun run and walk-a-thon to benefit the Asian Counseling and Referral Sevice Food Bank.
- Camp JET at Lake Arrowhead – May 29th – May 31st at Lake Arrowhead. Spend the weekend roughing it with JETAASC.
- Sushi Rolling at Satsuko – Tuesday, May 27th, 7:00 at Satsuko. Learn how to roll your own sushi so you’ll never go hungry again.
What happened at your chapter’s event? If you attend(ed) any of these exciting events, JetWit would love to hear about them. Just email Jonathan Trace with any info, stories or comments.
Freelance writer/editor Jonathan Trace (Fukuoka-ken, 2005-08) takes us on a walk around the JET Alumni community for another edition of JETAA Chapter Beat.
- J-Dinner – Thursday, May 14th, 7:00 at Meiwah.
- JBook Book Club – Monday, May 18th, 6:30 at Penn Quarter Teaism. May’s topic of discussion is “Moribito” by Nahoko Uehashi. New members always welcome, so drop on by.
- JETAA DC Alumni Social Event at Pimlico Race Course – May 23rd at the Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, MD. The first race is 11:30 and admissions is free.
- Camp JET at Lake Arrowhead – May 29th – May 31st at Lake Arrowhead. Spend the weekend roughing it with JETAASC.
- Pre-Departure Seminar Volunteers Needed! – Saturday, June 27th, 8:00 to 5:00 at Almansor Court. The 2009 JET participants are gearing up for their adventure to Japan, and JETAASC is looking for JET Alumni to guide them on their way. Share your experiences, wisdom and laughs with the new crowd and become a volunteer.
- Pre-Departure Seminar Volunteers Needed Canada Style – Saturday, June 27th at BCIT Downtown Campus. JETAABC is looking for volunteers to help prepare the newest crop of JET participants.
- Spring Family BBQ Cook-Out – Saturday, May 16t, 12:00 at the Chattahoochee River Park in Roswell. JETAASE along with the Japan-America Society of Georgia is holding its annual Young Professionals Spring Family BBQ Cook-Out. Spend the day outside grilling, chatting and seeing old friends.
- JETAANY Book Club Meeting – Wednesday, May 13th, 7:00 at a location yet to be announced. This month’s selection will be, “The Housekeeper and the Professor” by Yoko Ogawa.
- Sushi Rolling at Satsuko – Tuesday, May 27th, 7:00 at Satsuko. Learn how to roll your own sushi so you’ll never go hungry again.
- East Bay Nomikai Happy Hour – Thursday, May 21st, 6:00 at Conga Lounge. Celebrate summer’s imminent arrival with Mai Tais, friends and JETAANC.
- JETAANC Book Club Meeting – The next official meeting of the Book Club is happening in June. The discussion will center around “Silence” by Shusaku Endo. Start reading so you’ll be ready come June.
- UWA Japanese Studies Society’s River Cruise – Thursday, May 14th, 7:00 departing from Barrak St. Jetty. Test your Japanese and your sea legs at this year’s River Cruise.
What happened at your chapter’s event? If you attend(ed) any of these exciting events, JetWit would love to hear about them. Just email Jonathan Trace with any info, stories or comments.
Thanks to JETAA NY and JetWit webmaster Lee-Sean Huang (Oita-ken, 2003-06) for posting about the event on his blog (http://leesean.net):
I attended a sake tasting and dinner organized by JETAANY on Monday night at Bao Noodles. Chris Johnson (Oita-ken, 1992-95), JET-alum, sommelier, and owner of Bao Noodles, presented a tasting of his restaurant’s Vietnamese specialties paired with Momokawa and Murai Family sake. Chris is extremely knowledgeable about sake; he explained the different (…continued)
Freelance writer/editor Jonathan Trace (Fukuoka-ken, 2005-08) takes us on a walk around the JET Alumni community…
- Tampa Subchapter Tsudoi – Friday, May 1st, 7:00 at Panera Bread in the Brandon Mall. The Tampa Subchapter will be hosting their monthly Tsudoi, an informal time for anyone interested in Japanese and Japanese culture.
- Sake Tasting at Bao Noodles – Monday, May 4th, 7:00 at Bao Noodles. Take part in this year’s JETAANY Sake Tasting, hosted by Jet Alum and Owner of Bao Noodles. Family style dinner with 6 different sakes.
- Sakura Matsuri at the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens – Saturday, May 2nd, 11:00 at the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens. Spend the day with JETAANY outside under the cherry blossoms. Activities include ikebana, taiko and other Japanese related fun.
- Book Club Meeting – Wednesday, May 6th, 7:00 at a location yet to be determined. The selected work this month is “The Housekeeper and the Professor” by Yoko Ogawa. Start reading so you can join in on the discussion come May.
- May Monthly Meeting – Monday, May 4th, 6:00 at Panama Cafe. Come add your voice to the inner workings of PNW JETAA and find out how you can be more involved.
- Happy Hour – Friday, May 1st, 6:00 at Wann Izakaya. Spend a relaxing evening with PNW JETAA and bring your friends.
- Yoshida Brothers Concert – May 20th, 7:00 and 9:30(two shows) at the Triple Door. Do not miss these highly talented shamisen masters.
- J-Lunch – Thursday, April 30th, 12:00 at Kopitiam. Stop by this month’s J-Lunch for anyone interested in Japan.
- Happy Hour – Tuesday, May 12th, 5:00 at Uncle Julio’s Fine Mexican Cuisine. Have a laugh and a drink with your friends at JETAA DC.
- JBook Book Club – Monday, May 18th, 6:30 at Penn Quarter Teaism. May’s topic of discussion is “Moribito” by Nahoko Uehashi. New members always welcome, so drop on by.
- JETAA DC Alumni Social Event at Pimlico Race Course – May 23rd at the Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, MD. The first race is 11:30 and admissions is free.
- Iron Chef Potluck – Saturday, May 9th, 6:00 at a location yet to be determined. Come put those culinary skills to the test with JETAASC’s annual Iron Chef competition.
- Camp JET at Lake Arrowhead – May 29th – May 31st at Lake Arrowhead. Spend the weekend roughing it with JETAASC.
What happened at your chapter’s event? If you attend(ed) any of these exciting events, JetWit would love to hear about them. Just email Jonathan Trace with any info, stories or comments.
Texoma JETAA Region has just announced the launch of its new website in blog format: www.jetaa9.org
Get the RSS feed here: http://www.jetaa9.org/wpb/?feed=rss2
You can go here to meet the Texoma JETAA officers.
Freelance writer/editor Jonathan Trace (Fukuoka-ken, 2005-08) takes us on a walk around the JET Alumni community…
- East Bay Nomikai Happy Hour – Thursday, April 16th, 6:00 at Ichi Japon in Oakland. Celebrate the passing of another tax day with a drink and friends at JETAANC.
- Japanese Discussion Group “Taboo” on “Life after Death” – Saturday, April 18th, 3:00 at a location yet to be determined. This month’s discussion focuses on “Life after Death,” touching on religion, philosophy and other theories on this intriguing subject.
- JBook Book Club – Monday, April 20th, 6:30 at the Penn Quarter Teaism. This month’s book is “An Artist of the Floating World” by Kazuo Ishiguro. Come share your thoughts and impressions with JBook.
- Spring Koto Recital – Sunday, April 26th, 2:00 at the University of Maryland’s Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center. The Washington Toho Koto Society is putting on their 37th Annual Spring Recital. It’s open to the public, so why not spend the day absorbing some Japanese culture.
- J-Lunch – April 30th, 12:00 at Kopitiam. Have lunch and catch up with your friends at JETAADC.
- Spokane Japan Week – Saturday, April 18th – Sunday, 26th. It’s the 17th annual Japan Week in Spokane, including music by JET Alum Shun Endo’s band, The Liquid Now, “Hara-Hara” night(celebrating urban fashion in the spirit of Harajuku and Sakura-Con), and other Japan related events. Opening ceremonies are on Saturday at Spokane’s Riverpark Square, don’t miss it.
- Japanese Paper Cutting Exhibit and Talk – Thursday, April 16th, 5:30 at the Cullom Gallery. Artist Ryohei Tanaka will be giving a talk and demonstration of his work on Japanese Paper Cutting, “kiri e.” Learn about this traditional and interesting form of art from a true master.
- Asia Voila – UBC Asia Open House – Saturday, April 18th, 11:00 to 4:00 at the University of British Columbia. This weekend is UBC’s Asian Open House with a variety of Japanese activities including a Tea Ceremony, Haiku, Buddhist Chants and more.
- Spa Castle Onsen Experience – Sunday, April 26th, at the New York Spa Castle in Queens. Melt away the last of winter’s cold with a day at the only onsen in New York with JETAANY. Four floors of spas, pools and saunas await you, don’t miss it.
- Sakura Matsuri at the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens – Saturday, May 2nd, 11:00 at the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens. Spend the day with JETAANY outside under the cherry blossoms. Activities include ikebana, taiko and other Japanese related fun.
- Book Club Meeting – Wednesday, May 6th, 7:00 at a location yet to be determined. The selected work this month is “The Housekeeper and the Professor” by Yoko Ogawa. Start reading so you can join in on the discussion come May.
What happened at your chapter’s event? If you attend(ed) any of these exciting events, JetWit would love to hear about them. Just email Jonathan Trace with any info, stories or comments.
Freelance writer/editor Jonathan Trace (Fukuoka-ken, 2005-08) takes us on a walk around the JET Alumni community…
- AJS Pitch and Putt Golf Day – Saturday, April 18th, 2:00 at Canberra International Golf Centre. Tee off with AJS and JETAA Canberra for a day of family fun.
- O-Shaberikai – Wednesday, April 29th, 5:30 at the Holy Grail in Civic. Join in and meet Japanese people living in Canberra and other locals interested in Japan.
- Panel Discussion – Tuesday, April 14th, 9:00 A.M. at the Wohlstetter Conference Center, AEI offices. JET alum Michael Auslin, Director of Japan Studies for the American Enterprise Institute, will be moderating a panel discussion on the topic of “Are Alliances Enough: The Role of the U.S. – Japanese Alliance in Maritime Asia.” This discussion is only part of an all day event titled “Protecting the Seas: Maritime Security in the Asia Pacific, America’s Interests, and Asia’s Future.”
- JBook Book Club – Monday, April 20th, 6:30 at the Penn Quarter Teaism. This month’s book is “An Artist of the Floating World” by Kazuo Ishiguro. Come share your thoughts and impressions with JBook.
- Star in the Eye Poetry Reading – Tuesday, April 7th, 5:30 at Barnes and Noble on 1 E. Jackson. Former ALT James Shea will be giving a poetry reading from his book “Star in the Eye.”
- JETAA Meeting – Monday, April 13th, 6:00 at Hema’s Kitchen. Sit in and find out more about the Chicago JETAA community.
- James Kennedy “The Order of the Odd-Fish” Book Reading and Signings – James Kennedy will be promoting his book, “The Order of the Odd-Fish” at three upcoming events within the Chicago area. Saturday, April 22nd, 2:00 at Borders bookstore, Wednesday, April 22nd, 4:00 at the Edgewater Branch of the Chicago Public Library, and Tuesday, April 28th, 7:30 at the Hopleaf. Do not miss this chance to meet James and hear excerpts from his delightful book.
- JET Alum Writers Needed – The Sushi and Sake Magazine is looking for JET Alumni to share their experiences in writing to teach others about Japan. In particular, topics on cuisine, language, geographic regions and business structure are being sought, but anyone can contribute.
- Second Weekend Social JETAASC Rock Wall Climbing Event – Saturday, April 11th, 3:30 at Beach City Rocks. JETAASC will be spending the day on the wall, followed by a little Korean BBQ.
- Nihongo Dake – Sunday, April 26th, 2:00 at a location yet to be determined. Brush up on your Japanese skills and join in on a day of conversation, food and JETAA.
JETAA Texoma
- Japan Festival Mikoshi Bearers Needed – April 25th and 26th in Hermann Park, Houston. JETAA and the Consulate of Japan are looking for volunteers to help out at this year’s Japan Festival carrying the mikoshi(portable shrine) that they are building. Help out or just stop by JETAA Texoma’s booth and say hi.
- Japanese Colligraphy: Language and Cultural Experience Workshop – Wednesday, April 8th, 6:15 at the Japan Society Conference Room. Spend the day learning about Shodo, the art of writing kanji and kana characters with an ink-dipped brush led by Mr. Hideo Murakana.
- Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival – April 11, 12, 18 & 19th at the San Francisco Japantown. Two weekends of Japanese culture and food. It’s the 42nd year of the annual Cherry Blossom Festival, including a lively street fair with food, arts and crafts and a children’s village.
- JETAANC Oakland A’s Game – Saturday, April 25th, 1:00 at McAfee Coliseum. JETAANC and the Japan Society are co-hosting a day at the ballpark. Oakland takes on Tampa Bay, so come out and root for the home team with friends and JETAA.
What happened at your chapter’s event? If you attend(ed) any of these exciting events, JetWit would love to hear about them. Just email Jonathan Trace with any info, stories or comments.
Freelance writer/editor Jonathan Trace (Fukuoka-ken, 2005-08) takes us on a walk around the JET Alumni community…
- Happy Hour – Friday, April 3rd, 6:00 at Wann Izakaya. Start the weekend right with drinks, takoyaki and friends at PNW JETAA.
- April Monthly Meeting – Monday, April 6th, 6:00 at Panama Cafe. Come see the inner workings of PNW JETAA and find out about what’s going and what opportunities are out there for eager volunteers.
- Mini Hanami – Wednesday, April 1st, 5:30 at the tidal basin. Have a seat under the cherry blossoms and relax with friends at JETAADC.
- Quiz Night Write Up! – The quiz night, held jontly with UWA JAPSSOC, was bigger and better than 07/08, with just under 100 competitors in attendance over 12 teams. We look forward to an even larger turnout next year — JETAA Western Australia
- Annual General Meeting Write Up! – [AGM] was held to a subdued turnout but was a great chance to catch up and confirm the committee for next year, which will be: President Nick John, Vice President & Treasurer Adam Reynolds, Secretary Dave Millin, Social Rep Emma Wilson, Media Rep Karen le Blanc, Promos Rep Tegan Chubb, General Members Luke Eaton, Karen Carter, and Nat Garmony — JETAA Western Australia
- Sakura Sunday – April 5th, 11:00 to 4:00 at the Horticulture Center in Fairmount Park in Philadelphia. Join JETAANY as well as the Philadelphia and New Jersey Subchapters at the Philadelphia Cherry Blossom Festival. Live music, hanami, dance, and a plethora of other Japanese related events and activities.
- JETAA Job Fair – Saturday, April 4th, 12:00 to 5:00 at the Japan Information Center. Mark your calendars for this important chance to network with Chicago Japanese businesses.
- JETAA Meeting – Monday, April 13th, 6:00 at Hema’s Kitchen. Sit in and find out more about the Chicago JETAA community.
- James Kennedy “The Order of the Odd-Fish” Book Reading and Signings – James Kennedy will be promoting his book, “The Order of the Odd-Fish” at three upcoming events within the Chicago area. Saturday, April 22nd, 2:00 at Borders bookstore, Wednesday, April 22nd, 4:00 at the Edgewater Branch of the Chicago Public Library, and Tuesday, April 28th, 7:30 at the Hopleaf. Do not miss this chance to meet James and hear excerpts from his delightful book.
- O-Shaberikai – Wednesday, April 29th, 5:30 at the Holy Grail in Civic. Join in and meet Japanese people living in Canberra and other locals interested in Japan.
- AJS Pitch and Putt Golf Day – Saturday, April 18th, 2:00 at Canberra International Golf Centre. Tee off with AJS and JETAA Canberra for a day of family fun.
- JETAANC Hanami – Sunday, April 5th, 11:00 to 3:00 at Golden Gate Park, Speedway Meadow. Join JETAANC under the cherry trees for some fun and sun.
- JETAANC Oakland A’s Game – Saturday, April 25th, 1:00 at McAfee Coliseum. JETAANC and the Japan Society are co-hosting a day at the ballpark. Oakland takes on Tampa Bay, so come out and root for the home team with friends and JETAA
What happened at your chapter’s event? If you attend(ed) any of these exciting events, JetWit would love to hear about them. Just email Jonathan Trace with any info, stories or comments.
Freelance writer/editor Jonathan Trace (Fukuoka-ken, 2005-08) takes us on a walk around the JET Alumni community…
- JETAASE/JASG Volunteers Needed! – Saturday, March 28th, 10:00 A.M. to 3:00 at Agnes Scott College. Japan America Society of Georgia(JASG) needs volunteers for their Japan Academic Challenge and the 18th Annual Japanese Speech Contest. Take the time and help out JETAASE and JASG.
- South Carolina Subchapter Spring Picnic – April 25th at Furman University the JETAASE South Carolina Subchapter will be holding a spring picnic. Don’t miss a little sun and fun with the folks at the SC Subchapter.
- Japanese Bento Class Write Up! – On Saturday March 7th we held our Bento Cooking class which was a temendous and delicious success. We cooked 6 dishes and everyone had a chance to help cook at least one of the dishes. We would like to thank our teachers, Jessica Cork for translating, and in particular Consul Miki Hiro for helping to select the menu and teaching us how to make a delisious dish with many fresh spring ingredients — JETAASE
- O-Shaberikai – Wednesday, March 25th, 5:30 at the Holy Grail in Civic. Join in and meet Japanese people living in Canberra and other locals interested in Japan.
- Annual General Meeting – Friday, March 27th, 6:30 at 43 Below. If you are interested in joining the JETAA committee this year please come by and participate.
- JETAANY Book Club – Tuesday, March 24, 7:00 at Kat Barnas’ apartment. This book in question is “In the Shade of Spring Leaves, The Life of Higuchi Ichiyo, With Nine of Her Best Stories,” a collection of short stories by Higuchi Ichiyo. Come and discuss.
- Sakura Sunday – April 5th, 11:00 to 4:00 at the Horticulture Center in Fairmount Park in Philadelphia. Join JETAANY as well as the Philadelphia and New Jersey Subchapters at the Philadelphia Cherry Blossom Festival. Live music, hanami, dance, and a plethora of other Japanese related events and activities.
- Grad School and Fellowship Night – Tuesday, March 31st, 6:30 at the Old Ambassador’s Residence adjacent to the Japanese Embassy. JETAADC is hosting a panel discussion about grad school and fellowship/scholarship opportunities. If you are wondering what to do in life after JET, check it out.
- Kodo Drummers at DAR – Friday, March 27th at the DAR Constitution Hall. The Kodo Drummers are in town and tickets are half price, so don’t miss it.
- JETAADC Happy Hour – Tuesday, March 24th, 5:30 at Skye Lounge. Spend a night out with friends at this month’s Happy Hour.
- JETAANC Oakland A’s Game – Saturday, April 25th, 1:00 at McAfee Coliseum. JETAANC and the Japan Society are co-hosting a day at the ballpark. Oakland takes on Tampa Bay, so come out and root for the home team with friends and JETAA.
- East Bay Nomikai – Thursday, March 26th, 6:00 at Albatross Pub. Come out and have a drink with friends at this month’s Nomikai.
- Japan Nite 2009 – Saturday, March 28th, 8:00 at the Independent. Check out some Japanese music when Japan Nite comes to California.
What happened at your chapter’s event? If you attend(ed) any of these exciting events, JetWit would love to hear about them. Just email Jonathan Trace with any info, stories or comments.
JETAA DC recently announced an upcoming sento event at SpaWorld, a Korean bath place in the D.C. area. JETAA NY will also be doing a similar event at the SpaWorld located in Queens. Are there any other chapters doing sento or onsen type events?
Here’s the JETAA DC announcement:
Hey guys, Just a friendly reminder for those of you who want to come with us to Sento, please RSVP by tomorrow.
http://www.facebook .com/n/?event. php&eid=68174107 128&mid=207e87G1 e50db98G3fbc3b9G 7
Thank you.
********************* Read More
Freelance writer/editor Jonathan Trace (Fukuoka-ken, 2005-08) takes us on a walk around the JET Alumni community…
- Shinnenkai! – Friday, March 20th, 6:30 to 8:30 at REI Seattle. Ring in the new year in March with PNWJETAA. Bring the family for good food, lively conversation and a quick vote for a new president. Don’t miss this exciting event.
- Seattle Buddhist Temple Spring Bazaar – Sunday, March 15th, 11:00 to 3:00 at the Seattle Buddhist Temple. Come out for some home made Japanese food including sushi, barazushi, curry rice and apple pie.
- Seattle/Kobe Jazz Vocalist Audition – Monday, March 23rd, 6:30 at Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley. The Seattle-Kobe Sister City Association is looking for one high school and one adult female jazz vocalist to perform at the Kobe Jazz Queen Vocalist Contest May 9th, 2009 in Kobe, Japan. Put those pipes to work and try out!
- Teaching ESL Information Sessions – Monday, March 16th, 7:00 at the Seattle University Eastside Center and Wednesday, March 18th, 7:00 at the School of Teaching ESL. If you want to learn more about teaching English either locally or abroad these information sessions are for you.
- Nihongo Dake Dinner – Saturday, March 14th, 7:00 in Hollywood. Brush up on your Japanese and amaze your friends.
- Bowling and Dinner in Fountain Valley (OC Chapter) – March 22nd join the OC Subchapter of JETAASC for some bowling, food and maybe a bit of karaoke. Details are still in the works so stay tuned.
- Quiz Night – Thursday, March 19th, 7:00 at the UWA Tavern. Join in for the ever popular Quiz night. Food, drinks and some trivia. Don’t miss it.
- Annual General Meeting – Friday, March 27th, 7:00 at 43 Below. If you are interested in joining the JETAA committee this year please come by and participate.
- Kaiwa – Thursday, March 12th, 5:30 at 43 Below. Practice your Japanese with old friends and some tasty snacks.
- JETAANC Book Club Meeting – Thursday, March 12th, 6:30 at Cactus Taqueria. Come out and discuss Miyuki Miyabe’s All She was Worth at this month’s book club. Even if you’ve fallen behind in your reading please come by and be a part of the discussion.
- Gardens of Kyoto with Peter Bowyer – Saturday, March 14th, 10:0
0 A.M. at the Cultural Exchange Center. Learn about the elements of Japanese garden design, construction and maintenance. - Santa Clara International Exchange Concert with Okayama Gakugeikan High School – Saturday, March 14th, 6:00 at the Louis B. Mayer Theatre at Santa Clara University. Come see this Internationl Exchange Concert performed by the Ambassadors and the Santa Clara Honors Youth Symphony as well as the Okayama Gakugeikan Symphonic Band from Okayama, Japan.
- Meishi Exchange – Thursday, March 19th, 7:00 at Aja in the West Village. Meet fellow JET alumni, their friends and co-workers , as well as Japan’s Local Government Office and members of the Japanese Consulate in this networking event.
- JETAANY Book Club – Tuesday, March 24, 7:00 at Kat Barnes apartment. This book in question is “In the Shade of Spring Leaves, The Life of Higuchi Ichiyo, With Nine of Her Best Stories,” a collection of short stories by Higuchi Ichiyo. Come and discuss.
- Haru Natsukashii Dinner – Saturday, March 21st, 6:00 at Koume Restaurant. Food, games and prizes to ring in the coming spring. Be sure to join in.
- Japanese Art and Anime Festival – Friday, March 13th and Saturday March 14th at the Orlando Public Library. Information can be found here.
- O-Shaberikai – Wednesday, March 25th, 5:30 at the Holy Grail in Civic. Join in and meet Japanese people living in Canberra and other locals interested in Japan.
What happened at your chapter’s event? If you attend(ed) any of these exciting events, JetWit would love to hear about them. Just email Jonathan Trace with any info, stories or comments.
Freelance writer/editor Jonathan Trace (Fukuoka-ken, 2005-08) takes us on a walk around the JET Alumni community…
- JASW Sushi Making Workshop – Sunday, March 8th, at Maneki Neko Restaurant. Workshop A begins at 10:00, Workshop B begins at 1:00. Come learn how to make perfect sushi rice, flawless maki rolls and some nicely shaped nigiri sushi with Chef Tao.
- JASW Discussion: Comparing US & Japan Litigation Processes – Thursday, March 5th there will be a discussion about US and Japanese litigation laws. Do not miss the conversation about this interesting subject.
- Events at the Freer – March 6th through April 5th at the Freer Gallery there will be a series of free screenings of films by Nagisa Oshima. March 13th be sure to join the free shamisen/violin/computer concert. Don’t miss the fun.
- FLUID Pub Night – Wednesday, March 4th, 6:30 at Fluid. Have an Asahi and catch up with old friends at this month’s Fluid night.
- JETAA Speed Dating – Wednesday, March 25th, 7:00 at James Fleet Place. Looking for that special someone? Join JETAA London for some fun and romance.
- Sake Tasting – Sunday, March 22nd, 12:30 at Yumenoki Restaurant. Learn about Japanese sake with a qualified sake lecturer and enthusiast. See how it is made and get a taste for yourself.
- Happy Hour – Friday, March 6th, 6:00 at Wann Izakaya. Toss back a drink with old friends at this month’s happy hour.
- Seattle Buddhist Temple Spring Bazaar – Sunday, March 15th, 11:00 to 3:00 at the Seattle Buddhist Temple. Come out for some home made Japanese food including sushi, barazushi, curry rice and apple pie.
- Nomikai Happy Hour – Thursday, March 5th, 6:00 at Jade Bar. Join JETAANC for a drink and some conversation at Jade for this month’s happy hour.
- Tax Seminar – Wednesday, March 4th, 6;30 at the Japan Information Center, Consulate General of Japan in SF. Wondering how to get your taxes in order after spending the last year(s) in Japan? Come get some help from your local JETAA community.
- Japanese Discussion Group “Taboo” – Saturday, March 7th, 3:00. The topic for the discussion is marijuana and Japan and the legalization/illegality of it and other drugs in Japanese society. Come have a hand in this interesting topic.
- JETAA Meeting – Wednesday, March 18th, 6:00 at Jerry’s Deli. All members welcome, so join in if you can.
- JETAA Job Fair – Saturday, April 4th, 12:00 to 5:00 at the Japan Information Center. Mark your calendars for this important chance to network with Chicago Japanese businesses.
- Japanese Literature Book Club – Tuesday, March 17th, 6:00 at the Japan Information Center. Chicago is starting a new book club to meet once a month and discuss a Japanese novel or short story. This month’s selection will be Haruki Murakami’s short story collection “After the Quake.”
- JETAA Wisconsin Subchapter Party – Sunday, March 22nd at Edo Japanese Restaurant. Come out and join the fun in Wisconsin! Talk, share experiences and, best of all, get some good food.
- Quiz Night – Thursday, March 19th, 7:00 at the UWA Tavern. Join in for the ever popular Quiz night. Food, drinks and some trivia. Don’t miss it.
- AGM – Friday, March 27th, venue to be determined. If you are interested in joining the JETAA committee this year please come by and participate.
- Returnee Reception and Family BBQ Write Up! – On Friday, February 20th there was a welcome-back reception at the CG’s residence for ‘08 returnees. It was great to hear some natsukashii stories. Most of the committee was in attendance, along with the usual line-up of dignitaries. The next day, Saturday, February 21st, we held the annual JETAA Family BBQ at the Synergy Parkland at Kings Park. Despite his busy schedule, Hidenori Yoshikawa from CLAIR was kind enough to attend the event, along with plenty of JETAA members, family, CD representatives, Japanese residents of Perth and juicy watermelons. Photos will be up shortly on Facebook.
What happened at your chapter’s event? If you attend(ed) any of these exciting events, JetWit would love to hear about them. Just email Jonathan Trace with any info, stories or comments.
Freelance writer/editor Jonathan Trace (Fukuoka-ken, 2005-08) takes us on a walk around the JET Alumni community…
- Phoenix Matsuri – This past weekend the JETAASC Arizona Subchapter was out enjoying the annual Japan-related Phoenix Matsuri, which included parades and an Udon demonstration. Be on the lookout for more upcoming events with JETAASC Arizona!
- Tampa Happami – Saturday, March 7th, 2:00 to 4:00 at Kate Jackson park in Hyde Park. Florida’s own version of Hanami with snacks and sun. Rounding off the day is some Karaoke fun at night, so don’t miss it.
- Haru Natsukashii Dinner – Saturday, March 21st, 6:00 at Koume Restaurant. Food, games and prizes to ring in the coming spring. Be sure to join in.
- Japan-A-Mania! – Saturday, February 28th. JETAA, Big Brothers Big Sisters of NY and NY de Volunteer is hosting a day of Japanese culture and activities for NYC kids. Help out and share your love of Japan with the kids.
- JETAANY Quarterly Meeting – Thursday, March 5th, 6:30 to 8:30 at the Japan Local Government Center.
- Ski Bus – Day Trup to Tahoe – Saturday, March 7th, pickup at 6:00 A.M., locations to be decided. Spend the day on the slopes with JETAANC. Let’s skiing!
- Japan Society Year Ahead Part II Discussion – New Youth Culture in Japan – Thursday, February 26th, 6:00 at the Variety Preview Room. Learn about the effect of popular culture on Japan’s youth and what it means for the future.
- Biographies of Non-Eminent Monks: Situating Contemporary Japanese Buddhist Priests Discussion – Thursday, February 26th, 5:00 at IEAS Conference Room. Discuss the often overlooked lives of Japanese Buddhist Monks and their place in society.
- JASW Sushi Making Workshop – Sunday, March 8th, at Maneki Neko Restaurant. Workshop A begins at 10:00, Workshop B begins at 1:00. Come learn how to make perfect sushi rice, flawless maki rolls and some nicely shaped nigiri sushi with Chef Tao.
- JASW Discussion: Comparing US & Japan Litigation Processes – Thursday, March 5th there will be a discussion about US and Japanese litigation laws. Do not miss the conversation about this interesting subject.
- Nihongo Dake Brunch – Sunday, March 1st, 11:00 at the Penn Quarter Teaism. Brush up on your Japanese and catch up with friends.
- JETAA Oceania Logo Competition – JETAA Oceania is looking for logos. Help promote the JET Programme and embrace your creative side. Entries due by March 1st, 2009.
- Japanese Architecture Lecture – Tuesday, February 24th, 5:30 at the James O Fairfax Theatre at the National Gallery of Australia. Paul Noritaka Tange of the Tange Institute is giving a lecture on the work of his father, noted architect Kenzo Tange and his influence on modern Japanese Architecture.
- O-Shaberikai – Wednesday, February 25th, 5:30 at the Holy Grail in Civic. Join in and meet Japanese people living in Canberra and other locals interested in Japan.
What happened at your chapter’s event? If you attend(ed) any of these exciting events, JetWit would love to hear about them. Just email Jonathan Trace with any info, stories or comments.
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