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.
- Bowling in Aiea – Saturday, August 28th, 4:45 to 7:00 at Aiea Bowl. Set em up and knock em down with JETAA Hawaii this month.
- London Pub Night – Thursday, September 2nd, 6:30 at the Crane and Tortoise. Practice your Japanese, see old friends and have some authentic Japanese cuisine at this month’s Pub Night in London.
- O-Shaberikai – Wednesday, September 1st, 6:00 at Coo Izakaya in Civic. Join in and meet Japanese people living in Canberra and other locals interested in Japan.
- Nara Candle Festival Volunteers Needed – As planning for the annual Nara Candle Festival continues, the search for volunteers is on for people to help before and after the festival, as well as people to work the gyoza stand. This year’s festival is happening on the 18th of September, so keep your calendars open.
- KaiWA – Thursday September 9th and 23rd, 5:30 at 43 Below. Practice Japanese with old friends and some tasty snacks.
- Reel Anime – Sunday, September 19th Luna Leederville is playing host to this year’s edition of Reel Anime, a mini-festival celebrating Japanese Anime. This year’s feature is entitled Summer Wars. More details to come, so stay tuned.
- Returnee’s Party – Saturday, September 25th, 6:30 at Fuji Restaurant in Vic Park. Join the official welcome of the returning JETs to JETAAWA as a longtime member or a fresh off the boat returner.
- Mokuyokai Hike to Joffre Lakes – Saturday, August 28th, 8:15 A.M to 8:00 P.M. at Joffre Lake. Mokuyokai is heading into the woods for a challenging hike to the emerald green alpine Joffre Lakes. Transportation is included and the trail is a sometimes steep and rocky 11km, so come prepared for a workout.
- Bonsai Class – Saturday, September 25th, 10:00 to 3:30(with a half hour break for lunch) at the National Nikkei Museum & Heritage Center. Learn how to develop, transform and care for your bonsai at this informative class.
- Anime Costume Contest – Saturday, August 28th, 6:00 to 11:00 at the Chinatown-ID Night Market. Dress in your Cartoon finest or just come out for some delicious night market treats.
- Aki Matsuri Volunteers Needed! – PNWJETAA is looking for volunteers to help with this year’s Aki Matsuri on September 11th and 12th. Do your part in helping to preserve the JET Program by helping to inform people about JET and your own experiences working and living in Japan.
- General Meeting – Wednesday, September 1st, 6:30 to 8:00 PNWJETAA is holding its September General Meeting. Topics such as event planning, volunteer opportunities and much more will be discussed, so come out and lend your voice to the future of your chapter.
- Happy Hour – Friday, September 3rd, 6:00 at Kushibar. Old alums and new are invited to share a laugh or two over a drink at this month’s Happy Hour event.
- Samurai Sword Fighting Class – Saturday, September 11th, 2:00 to 4:00 at 440 Studios 4A. Samurai performer Yoshi Amao will be leading a special class on Samurai Sword Fighting, going over a variety of basic techniques with the class. Don’t miss this one of a kind experience.
- 2010 Annual JETAANY Softball Tournament – Saturday, September 18th, 9:00 at Red Hook Brooklyn. Sign up for the team or just come out as a spectator to this year’s slow pitch softball tournament.
- Book Club Meeting – Thursday, September 9th, 7:00 in Fort Greene, Brooklyn. This month’s selection is Natuso Kirino’s “Out.” Start reading now so you can contribute to the discussion.
- Clash of the Baseball Titans – Ichiro vs. Matsui – Friday, September 10th, at Angels Stadium in Anaheim. Come out for a day at the ballpark to see the Angels take on the Seattle Mariners, followed by fireworks after the game.
- JETAA Golf Classic – Saturday, September 11th, 1:00 at Monterey Park Golf Course. Dust off the clubs and show your skills on the links for a friendly JETAA golf get together.
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.
- 11th English Discussion Forum – Saturday, August 21st, 3:00 at Inner Sunset area of San Francisco. The topic of this month’s forum is the “Atomic Bomb in Hiroshima and Nagasaki.”
- Noh Theatre Nite – Tuesday, August 24th, 6:00 at the San Francisco Public Library, Paley Conference Room. Learn about Japanese Noh Theatre with the JETAANC Kabuki Club. An informative documentary about Noh will be shown, followed by a short Noh Performance on video entitled, “The Wooden Water Well.”
- New People’s J-Pop Summit Festival Volunteers Needed – The New People J-Pop Center is hosting the J-Pop Summer Festival in Japantown in San Francisco and they are looking for volunteers to help with the many planned events. Get back into the spirit of the summer matsuri and help out.
- Go-Cart Mayhem and Networking Night – Saturday, August 21st, 7:00 to 9:00 at the Houston Grand Prix. Join Texoma JETAA for a night of go-carts, video games, pinball and more. See old friends and meet new ones over pizza and soda.
- Camping in Michigan – Saturday, September 18th thru Sunday September 19th in Van Buren State Park on Lake Michigan. JETAA Chicago is packing the car, setting up the tents and spending the weekend at the lake. Spend Saturday on the beach, followed by a cookout complete with ghost stories and marsh mellows.
- Happy Hour – Friday, August 27th, 6:00 at McCormick and Schmicks. Join the guys at JETAANE for a night of relaxation and fun at this month’s Happy Hour event.
- Aki Matsuri Volunteers Needed! – PNWJETAA is looking for volunteers to help with this year’s Aki Matsuri on September 11th and 12th. Do your part in helping to preserve the JET Program by helping to inform people about JET and your own experiences working and living in Japan.
- Tsukimi no Kai – Saturday, August 21st, 7:00 to 10:00 at the Seattle Japanese Garden. Gaze up at the harvest moon this month for a moonviewing event that includes haiku readings, music, tea ceremony and more.
- Historic Walking Tour: Jewish & Japanese Strathcona – Friday, August 27th, 1:30 to 3:30. The Jewish Museum & Archives of BC are presenting a tour of the histories of both early Jewish and Japanese communities in Vancouver, including the Jewish and Japanese Strathcona landmarks, Oppenheimer Park and more.
- Mokuyokai Hike to Joffre Lakes – Saturday, August 28th, 8:15 A.M to 8:00 P.M. at Joffre Lake. Mokuyokai is heading into the woods for a challenging hike to the emerald green alpine Joffre Lakes. Transportation is included and the trail is a sometimes steep and rocky 11km, so come prepared for a workout.
- Bonsai Class – Saturday, September 25th, 10:00 to 3:30(with a half hour break for lunch) at the National Nikkei Museum & Heritage Center. Learn how to develop, transform and care for your bonsai at this informative class.
- Annual JETAA Wales Picnic – Sunday, August 22nd, 1:00 at Bute Park in Cardiff. Get out the picnic basket and get outside with JETAA UK for their annual picnic in Bute Park. Friends and family of JETs are invited, so don’t miss it.
- JETAA Masters Golf 2010 – Sunday, August 22nd, 10:30 at McMenamins Edgefield’s Pub Course in Troutdale. Compete for the Sugoi “Green Jacket” at this years JETAA Portland Masters Tournament. Golfers of all levels are welcome to join and share in this exciting and fun day.
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.
- Salsa on the Beach – Saturday, August 14th, 6:00 to 10:00 at Alki Beach. Find your groove and do a little salsa on the beach this weekend. Feel free to just enjoy the show or join in if the mood strikes.
- Aki Matsuri Volunteers Needed! – PNWJETAA is looking for volunteers to help with this year’s Aki Matsuri on September 11th and 12th. Do your part in helping to preserve the JET Program by helping to inform people about JET and your own experiences working and living in Japan.
- Tsukimi no Kai – Saturday, August 21st, 7:00 to 10:00 at the Seattle Japanese Garden. Gaze up at the harvest moon this month for a moonviewing event that includes haiku readings, music, tea ceremony and more.
- Day at the National Zoo – Saturday, August 14th, 10:00 to 12:00 noon at the National Zoo. Enjoy a day outside exploring the animal kingdom at the zoo with JETAADC.
- Bowling in Aiea – Saturday, August 28th, 4:45 to 7:00 at Aiea Bowl. Set em up and knock em down with JETAA Hawaii this month.
- Annual JETAA Wales Picnic – Sunday, August 22nd, 1:00 at Bute Park in Cardiff. Get out the picnic basket and get outside with JETAA UK for their annual picnic in Bute Park. Friends and family of JETs are invited, so don’t miss it.
- Noh Theatre Nite – Tuesday, August 24th, 6:00 at the San Francisco Public Library, Paley Conference Room. Learn about Japanese Noh Theatre with the JETAANC Kabuki Club. An informative documentary about Noh will be shown, followed by a short Noh Performance on video entitled, “The Wooden Water Well.”
- JETAA Masters Golf 2010 – Sunday, August 22nd, 10:30 at McMenamins Edgefield’s Pub Course in Troutdale. Compete for the Sugoi “Green Jacket” at this years JETAA Portland Masters Tournament. Golfers of all levels are welcome to join and share in this exciting and fun day.
- Summer BBQ – Saturday, August 14th, 11:30 to 4:30 at Jericho Beach Park in Vancouver. Enjoy a day of cooking out and fun games with JETAABC.
- Sake with the Haiku Geisha Play Reading – Friday, August 13th, 8:30 at the Tinker Auditorium. JETAANY is presenting a one night only reading of the critically acclaimed play “Sake with the Haiku Geisha,” written by JET alumnus and playwright Randall David Cook.
- Japanese Folk Dance, Bon Odori Class – Saturday, August 14th, 2:00 to 3:30 at DANY Studios. Momo Suzuki, founder and director of the Japanese Folk Dance Institute of NY will be teaching a Bon Odori class, so come try your hand at some Japanese dance.
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.
- Shabu Shabu & Karaoke Night – Friday, August 13th. Come out for a night of boiled delicacies and singing mayhem with the group in Sydney.
- Origami Workshop – Saturday, September 18th. Catch up with old friends while learning to fold paper like a pro. Details forthcoming.
- Summer BBQ – Saturday, August 14th, 11:30 to 4:30 at Jericho Beach Park in Vancouver. Enjoy a day of cooking out and fun games with JETAABC.
- Tampa Subchapter Tsudoi – Friday, August 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.
- Sake with the Haiku Geisha Play Reading – Friday, August 13th, 8:30 at the Tinker Auditorium. JETAANY is presenting a one night only reading of the critically acclaimed play “Sake with the Haiku Geisha,” written by JET alumnus and playwright Randall David Cook.
- Japanese Folk Dance, Bon Odori Class – Saturday, August 14th, 2:00 to 3:30 at DANY Studios. Momo Suzuki, founder and director of the Japanese Folk Dance Institute of NY will be teaching a Bon Odori class, so come try your hand at some Japanese dance.
- Nihongo Dake Dinner – Wednesday, August 25th, 7:00 to 9:00 at Gyu Kaku in the East Village. Get your yakiniku fix while doing your best to remember some Japanese at this month’s Nihongo Dake Dinner.
- Samurai Sword Fighting Class – Saturday, September 11th, 2:00 to 4:00 at 440 Studios 4A. Samurai performer Yoshi Amao will be leading a special class on Samurai Sword Fighting, going over a variety of basic techniques with the class. Don’t miss this one of a kind experience.
- DrumSTRONG 3 – Friday, August 6th, 7:30 at the Neurosciences Institute Auditorium in San Diego. The Japan Society of San Diego and Tijuana are hosting Drumstrong 3, the third in a series of cross-cultural drumming concerts produced by San Diego Taiko. This year features Leilsa, a San Diego based Tahitian drum and dance group.
- Sushi & Sake Tasting Volunteers Needed – JETAASC is putting the call out for volunteers at this years Sake Tasting Event held at the Kyoto Grand Hotel on August 6th as part of the Nisei Week Festival in Little Tokyo.
- Nihongo Dake Dinner – Saturday, August 7th, 6:00 at West Covina. This month’s dinner is an internationally themed BYOB Pot-Luck, so dust off the Japanese skills and get ready for a flavorful night.
- Hiroshima to Hope – Friday, August 6th, 6:00 to 9:30, on the northwest shore of Green Lake. This annual event seeks to remember those who were lost in the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki with music, speakers and a lantern floating ceremony.
- Unofficial Happy Hour – Friday, August 6th, 7:00 at Wann Izakaya. Share a drink with friends this Friday night. Just because it is unofficial, doesn’t mean it won’t be a good time.
- 36th Japanese Discussion Forum – Saturday, August 7th, 3:00 at Inner Sunset area of San Francisco. The topic of this month’s forum is the “Atomic Bomb in Hiroshima and Nagasaki.”
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.
- Picnic in the Park – Saturday, July 31st, 12:00 at Holland Park. JETAA London will be spending the day in Holland Park’s Kyoto Garden.
- Summer Picnic – Sunday, August 1st, 11:00 to 4:00 at Carkeek Park, Shelter 2. Get out in the sun for a day of food, fun and games with PNWJETAA. Events this year will follow an Undoukai theme, with traditional Japanese games and a few new ones as well.
- DrumSTRONG 3 – Friday, August 6th, 7:30 at the Neurosciences Institute Auditorium in San Diego. The Japan Society of San Diego and Tijuana are hosting Drumstrong 3, the third in a series of cross-cultural drumming concerts produced by San Diego Taiko. This year features Leilsa, a San Diego based Tahitian drum and dance group.
- Pre-Departure Reception – Friday, July 30th, 4:00 to 7:00 at the Residence of the Consul General. Pass along some final advice as the 2010 JETs prepare to embark on their journey to Japan.
- Pre-Departure Reception – Friday, July 30th, 6:30 to 8:00 at the Embassy of Japan. Bid fond farewell’s and ganbatte’s to the new crop of JETs as they prepare to leave for 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.
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JET Return on Investment (ROI) is a new category on JetWit intended to highlight the various economic, diplomatic and other benefits to Japan resulting from its investment in the JET Program. Why is this important right now? Because the JET Program and JET Alumni Association may be cut by the Japanese government, as explained in this post by Jim Gannon (Ehime-ken, 1992-94) titled “JET Program on the Chopping Block.”
It occurred to me tonight that the “JETAA Chapter Beat“ posts that Jonathan Trace (Fukuoka-ken, 2005-08) has been pulling together since November 2008 provide a simple and nice overview of what various JETAA chapters are doing, especially in terms of Japan-oriented cultural outreach and community involvement. The process is simple: Jon subscribes to as many JETAA Chapter email lists, Facebook groups, etc. as he can find. Then each post he copies and pastes a few interesting ones, and…voila! JETAA Chapter Beat!
Here’s the category link:
http://jetwit.com/wordpress/category/jetaa-chapter-beat/
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.
- An Evening of Sake and Savouries – Sunday, July 18th at Hapa Izakaya’s Robson location. Join in for this delicious fundraiser for the Powell Street Festival Society. Blue Note Wines & Spirits Inc. is hosting a sake tasting, accompanied by a handpicked dish from Hapa Izakaya.
- 34th Annual Powell Street Festival – Saturday, July 31st and Sunday August 1st, 11:30 to 7:00 at Oppenheimer Park. Following the Japanese tradition of Koen Debut, this festival celebrates introducing neighborhood toddlers to their local community.
- Farewell Reception for the 2010 JET Participants – Tuesday, July 20th, 6:00 to 7:30 at the Embassy of Japan. Send off the departing JETs in style with sushi and appetizers at the Embassy of Japan.
- JETAA Chicago Dinner Party – Saturday, July 10th, 6:30 at Sakura in Mount Prospect. Come out for a nice dinner with friends at one of the most authentic Japanese cuisine restaurants in Chicago.
- Malott Japanese Garden Summer Festival – Saturday August 21st and Sunday August 22nd, 10:00 to 3:00 at the McGinley Pavilion. Learn about Japanese summer festivals and participate in fun activities including writing haiku, practicing calligraphy and more.
- Seattle Garden Daichakai and Tanabata – Saturday, July 10th, 10:00 to 8:00 at the Seattle Japanese Garden. As part of the garden’s 50th anniversary, experience Japanese culture in the form of tea ceremony demonstrations and more.
- Bon Odori – Saturday, July 17th, 4:00 to 10:30 and Sunday, July 18th, 3:00 to 8:30 at the Seattle Betsuin Buddhist Temple. Join PNWJETAA for some summer fun and dancing at this year’s Bon Odori. Don’t forget your yukata.
- JETAADC Baseball GameDay – Sunday, July 11th, 1:35 see the Washington Nationals take on the San Francisco Giants. Spend the day at the ballpark and send out some Japanese style cheers for the hometeam.
- Sumi-e Painting Workshop – Saturday, July 10th, 3:00 to 4:30 at Kinokuniya in midtown. Learn about the art of Japanese ink painting from Canadian Sumi-e artist Hiroshi Yamamoto in this special workshop event.
- July Picnic – Saturday, July 10th, 11:00 to 3:00 at Wilson Park in Torrance. Fire up the grill and join JETs old and new for a day in the sun.
- JETAASC Networking Event & Mexican Dinner – Thursday, July 15th, 7:00 at Tamayo Restuarant in the San Gabriel Valley. Get to know the departing JETs and see old friends at this first ever San Gabriel Valley Networking event.
- Kabuki Club – Saturday, July 17th, 2:00 at the Rockridge Library. This month the Kabuki Club will be viewing the summertime thriller, The Ise Dances and Love’s Dull Blade.
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.
- Japanese Cooking Class – Saturday, May 22nd, 12:00 to 2:30 at the Cooking and Crafts Room on the 2nd floor of the Nikkei Centre. Naomi-sensei will be giving a lesson on Harusame Salad, Yahata Maki, Kinpira Renkon and Azuki Shiratama for dessert.
- 2010 JET Pre-Departure Seminar Volunteers Needed – JETAABC is seeking volunteers to help with this year’s Pre-Departure Orientation and Seminar. Volunteers are needed on Saturday, June 26th, 9:00 to 17:00 and Sunday, June 27th from 14:15 to 15:30 for a seminar panel discussion. Presentation topics include Culture Shock, Your First Month in Japan, etc.
- Saturday Brunch at Lucky Strike – Saturday, May 22nd, 11:00 to 1:00 at Lucky Strike in Houston. Join the gang for brunch, including bottomless Mimosas and Bloody Marys and a free game of bowling.
- Happy Hour – Wednesday, May 26th, 6:00 at Redline in Harvard Square. Join the guys at JETAANE for a night of relaxation and fun at this month’s Happy Hour event.
- June Networking Event – Wednesday, June 2nd, 6:00 to 8:00 at La Tasca in Clarendon. Get together with other local JET alumni over sangrias for a chance to make friends and new contacts.
- Komen Race for the Cure – Saturday, June 5th, 7:40 A.M. at the corner of Consitution and 7th St. Join the JETAADC team and help raise money to help end breast cancer forever.
- O-Shaberikai – Wednesday, June 2nd, 6:00 at Coo Izakaya in Civic. Join in and meet Japanese people living in Canberra and other locals interested in Japan.
- Japan Expo – Tuesday, June 1st, 6:30 at King O’Malley’s. In order to promote tourism in Japan, there will be a Japan Expo held at City Walk Canberra. Check it out.
- Annual General Meeting and Lunch – Saturday, June 5th, 11:30 at a location to be determined. Come discuss the future of JETAA Canberra and get involved. A sushi lunch will be provided.
- Softball Challenge Writeup – The Softball challenge was held last Saturday, 15 May 2010 at Fellows Oval ANU. The Embassy of Japan team once again took the winner’s title. The JETAA, AJS and CJC team had some great games and played well. Thank you for your support — JETAA Canberra
- Japan Day 2010 Volunteers Needed – Sunday, June 6th at East Meadow in Central Park. JETAANY is assisting in this years’ Japan Day, and they are looking for volunteers to help man the YoYo fishing booth. Sign up to help with the Morning, Afternoon or Clean-up shifts.
- 2010 JET Pre-Departure Seminar Volunteers Needed – JETAANY is looking for volunteers to help with this year’s JET Pre-Departure on Saturday, June 26th. Topics include Life as a JET and Studying Japanese in Japan.
- Kamifusen Workshop – Saturday, May 22nd, 3:00 to 4:30 at East Meadow in Central Park. Join in and learn about Kamifusen, a paper balloon that is a traditional Japanese toy.
- Nihongo Dake Dinner – Wednesday, May 26th, 7:00 to 9:00 at Bia Garden. Practice your Japanese in the warm night air as JETAANY’s Nihongo Dake Dinner is being held in a Vietnamese Beer Garden this month.
- Kabuki Club – Saturday, May 22nd, 2:00 at the San Francisco Public Library, Paley Room. This month the Kabuki Club will be viewing the final two acts of Yoshitsune and the Thousand Cherry Blossoms.
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.
- May Happy Hour – May 7th, 6:00 at Wann Izakaya.
- Japanese Used Book Sale – Saturday, May 22nd, 11:00 to 2:00 at Sammamish High School. The Semi-Annual Used Japanese Book Fair is back, so come out and browse this year’s selection.
- Walk for Rice 2010 – Saturday, June 19th, 8:00 registration, 1:00 start time at Seattle’s Seward Park. Join the PNWJETAA Team and help raise money for the ACRS Food Bank and fight hunger.
- J-Dinner – Thursday, May 6th at Kushi. Spend a night out on the town in DC with other Japanese people and people interested in Japan. Happy hour begins at 6:00 with dinner to follow at 7:30.
- Tampa Subchapter Tsudoi – Friday, May 7th, 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.
- 11th Annual Hakone Matsuri – Sunday, May 16th, 11:00 to 4:00 at Hakone Gardens in Saratoga. The Hakone Foundation, Hakone Gardens Supporting Committe and the Consuate General of Japan in San Francisco are happy to present this years Hakone Matsuri. Events include Japanese calligraphy, tea ceremony, a silent auction and more.
- Kabuki Club – Saturday, May 22nd, 2:00 at the San Francisco Public Library, Paley Room. This month the Kabuki Club will be viewing the final two acts of Yoshitsune and the Thousand Cherry Blossoms.
- Japanese Cooking Class – Saturday, May 22nd, 12:00 to 2:30 at the Cooking and Crafts Room on the 2nd floor of the Nikkei Centre. Naomi-sensei will be giving a lesson on Harusame Salad, Yahata Maki, Kinpira Renkon and Azuki Shiratama for dessert.
- JETAA Meeting – Wednesday, May 12th, 6:30. Come discuss the future of JETAA Chicago.
- Japanese Garden Children’s Festival – Saturday, May 15th and Sunday, May 16th, 10:00 to 3:00 at the Chicago Botanic Garden. Learn about children’s celebrations in Japan during this weekend of activities including Koto harp and Shakuhachi flute music, folktales, Karate and more.
- O-Shaberikai – Wednesday, May 5th, 5:30 at Coo Izakaya in Civic. Join in and meet Japanese people living in Canberra and other locals interested in Japan.
- Softball Challenge – Saturday, May 15, 12:00 to 4:00 at Fellows Oval ANU. JETAA Canberra and the AJS and CJC are forming a team for this year’s event, so grab your glove and join in. Practice will be held on Saturday, April 17th from 1:00 to 3:00 at Yarralumla Neighborhood Oval.
- Portland Taiko 2010 Benefit Banquet – Wednesday, May 5th, 6:00 at Won’g King Seafood Restaurant. Portland Taiko will be having a live performance, silent auction and 11 course feast, so be sure to check it out.
- J-Kaiwa – Friday, May 7th, 7:00 to 9:30 at the Hawthorne Lucky Lab. Come down and practice your Japanese and make some new friends. Nijikai to follow at the Hollywood Bowl.
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.
- Chicago Cubs Gameday – JETAA Chicago is selling upper deck tickets for the May 1st Chicago Cubs home game against the Arizona Diamondbacks. Cheer on the home team with your friends and fellow JET Alumni.
- Japanese Garden Children’s Festival – Saturday, May 15th and Sunday, May 16th, 10:00 to 3:00 at the Chicago Botanic Garden. Learn about children’s celebrations in Japan during this weekend of activities including Koto harp and Shakuhachi flute music, folktales, Karate and more.
- Happy Hour – Friday, April 30th, 6:00 at Daisy Buchanan. Join the guys at JETAANE for a night of relaxation and fun at this month’s Happy Hour event.
- Portland Taiko 2010 Benefit Banquet – Wednesday, May 5th, 6:00 at Won’g King Seafood Restaurant. Portland Taiko will be having a live performance, silent auction and 11 course feast, so be sure to check it out.
- J-Kaiwa – Friday, May 7th, 7:00 to 9:30 at the Hawthorne Lucky Lab. Come down and practice your Japanese and make some new friends. Nijikai to follow at the Hollywood Bowl.
- O-Shaberikai – Wednesday, May 5th, 5:30 at Coo Izakaya in Civic. Join in and meet Japanese people living in Canberra and other locals interested in Japan.
- Softball Challenge – Saturday, May 15, 12:00 to 4:00 at Fellows Oval ANU. JETAA Canberra and the AJS and CJC are forming a team for this year’s event, so grab your glove and join in. Practice will be held on Saturday, April 17th from 1:00 to 3:00 at Yarralumla Neighborhood Oval.
- Networking Event – Tuesday, May 4th, 6:00 to 8:00 at Bar Louie. JETAADC Happy Hour has returned with a new name. Take this chance to get together with friends old and new over a drink the first week of every month.
- J-Dinner – Thursday, May 6th at Kushi. Spend a night out on the town in DC with other Japanese people and people interested in Japan. Happy hour begins at 6:00 with dinner to follow at 7:30.
- Ikenobo Ikebana Demonstration and Luncheon – Saturday, May 8th, 10:00 A.M. at the Hilton Houston Post Oak Hotel. Ikenobo Ikebana Headmaster Senei Ikenobo is coming from Kyoto to give a special demonstration Japanese flower arrangement, so do not miss this rare opportunity.
- Quiz Night – Wednesday, April 28th, 6:00 at Amber Restaurant. Test your knowledge of Japanese history, poular culture, sports and more on this night of fun and games. Top 3 teams win prizes, so get your team together and give it your best.
- Brooklyn Botanical Garden Sakura Matsuri – Saturday, May 1st, 11:00 to 4:00 at the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens. Spend the day beneath the cherry blossoms with your friends at JETTANY.
- Buddha-Dharma and Meditation – Saturday, May 8th. 1:00 to 3:00 at the New York Buddhist Church. The NYBC invites you to join in the hearing, learning and practicing of Buddha-Dharma and Meditation and let a little peace into your heart.
- Yamashiro’s Farmer’s Market Mixer – Thursday, April 29th, 7:30 to 9:00 at Yamashiro Restaurant in Hollywood. Join JETAASC for a get together in the hills of Hollywood for a farmers market. There’s fresh produce, live music, baked goods, gelato and a specialty taco stand set up by the restaurant.
- Family Fun Day – Saturday, May 1st, 12:00 to 6:00 at Boomers in Irvine. Check out this day of fun activities for the young and young at heart. Mini golf, laser tag and go karts are just some of the activities planned.
- Family Friendly Event by the Beach – Sunday, May 16th, 2:00 to 6:00 at San Clemente. Enjoy the surf and the sand with JETAASC on this fun filled beach Sunday. There will be a picnic, J-E Bilingual games and more.
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.
- Hanami Picnic – Saturday, April 17th, 12:30 at Cannon Hill Park in Birmingham. Come out for a day of fresh air, friends and cherry blossoms in the park. Be sure to bring some snacks or drinks for everyone to share.
- O-Shaberikai – Wednesday, May 5th, 5:30 at Coo Izakaya in Civic. Join in and meet Japanese people living in Canberra and other locals interested in Japan.
- Softball Challenge – Saturday, May 15, 12:00 to 4:00 at Fellows Oval ANU. JETAA Canberra and the AJS and CJC are forming a team for this year’s event, so grab your glove and join in. Practice will be held on Saturday, April 17th from 1:00 to 3:00 at Yarralumla Neighborhood Oval.
- Yamashiro’s Farmer’s Market Mixer – Thursday, April 29th, 7:30 to 9:00 at Yamashiro Restaurant in Hollywood. Join JETAASC for a get together in the hills of Hollywood for a farmers market. There’s fresh produce, live music, baked goods, gelato and a specialty taco stand set up by the restaurant.
- Family Fun Day – Saturday, May 1st, 12:00 to 6:00 at Boomers in Irvine. Check out this day of fun activities for the young and young at heart. Mini golf, laser tag and go karts are just some of the activities planned.
- Japanese Night Out: Otafuku’s Okonomiyaki, Takoyaki and Hakkaisan Sake – Tuesday, April 20th, 6:30 to 8:00 at Decibel Sake Bar. Get out for a night of Japanese food and high quality sake at one of New York’s favorite Japanese restaurants.
- JETAANY Book Club – Thursday, April 22nd, time and location to be determined. This month’s selection will be Polite Lies: On Being a Woman Caught Between Cultures by Kyoko Mori. Drop by and add your voice to the discussion.
- Origami Workshop – Saturday, April 24th, 3:00 to 4:30 at Kinokuniya Bookstore. Come learn about the art of paper folding, including a lesson on origami animals and other special techniques.
- Japan-a-mania – Saturday, April 24th, 12:30 to 4:30 at Big Brothers Big Sisters. Join JETAANY and NYC kids in a day of learning about Japanese Culture. Volunteer to show off your origami, katakana and kimono skills.
- Quiz Night – Wednesday, April 28th, 6:00 at Amber Restaurant. Test your knowledge of Japanese history, poular culture, sports and more on this night of fun and games. Top 3 teams win prizes, so get your team together and give it your best.
- East Bay Nomikai Happy Hour – Tuesday, April 20th, 6:00 to 8:00 at Ozumo Oakland. This month JETAANC is joining the Japan Society of Northern California and the Japanese Graduates and Researchers Society at Berkeley for drinks and fun.
- Vancouver Ikebana Spring Show – Saturday April 17th and Sunday April 18th, 12:00 to 5:00 at the Oakridge Centre Auditorium in Vancouver. The Vancouver Ikebana Association is holding it’s annual show for Japanese flower arrangement, including teacher demonstrations each day from 1:00 to 3:00.
- J-Lunch – Friday, April 16th, 12:00 at Circa Cafe. Come share your love of Japan over lunch with others in the DC area.
- Kaiwa – Thursday, April 22nd, 5:30 at 43 Below. Practice Japanese with old friends and some tasty snacks.
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.
- Social Night – Saturday, April 10th, JETAABC is holding a get together and social night. Stay tuned to JETAABC for more details.
- Sumidagawa & Curlew River Opera Premiere – Thursday, April 15th, 8:00 the City Opera of Vancouver and NIkkei Place is giving a sneak preview of an upcoming Japanese dance and Western Opera experience. Be sure to check out the main event May 26, 27, and 28th at Frederic Wood Theatre, UBC.
- Vancouver Ikebana Spring Show – Saturday April 17th and Sunday April 18th, 12:00 to 5:00 at the Oakridge Centre Auditorium in Vancouver. The Vancouver Ikebana Association is holding it’s annual show for Japanese flower arrangement, including teacher demonstrations each day from 1:00 to 3:00.
- Chicago Cubs Gameday – JETAA Chicago is selling upper deck tickets for the May 1st Chicago Cubs home game against the Arizona Diamondbacks. Cheer on the home team with your friends and fellow JET Alumni.
- Happy Hour – Friday, April 2nd, 6:00 at Wann Izakaya. Get together on the eve of Sakura Con for a drink with friends and fellow JET alumni.
- JETAAPNW General Meeting – Wednesday, April 7th, 6:30 to 8:30 at the Convention Center Atrium in downtown Seattle. Get together with the alumni board and discuss upcoming events and the future of JETAAPNW.
- “Scenes of Childhood: Sixty Years of Postwar Japan” Photo Exhibit – April 12th through the 21st at the Seattle Center Pavillion, Seattle Center. This year’s Seattle Cherry Blossom and Japanese Cultural Festival is hosting a special exhibit of 100 photographs that focus on the daily lives of Japanese children dating from the end of World War II to the present.
- Hanami Picnic – Saturday, April 10th, 11:00 to 3:00 at Speedway Meadow in Golden Gate Park. Celebrate the coming spring Japanese style with JETAANC.
- Tampa Subchapter Tsudoi – Friday, April 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.
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.
- Houston Karaoke-kai – Friday, March 26th, 6:30 at Sushi Jin Japanese Restaurant. Get vocal with the gang in Houston and practice your singing in Japanese.
- 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.
- Hanami Picnic – Saturday, April 10th, 11:00 to 3:00 at Speedway Meadow in Golden Gate Park. Celebrate the coming spring Japanese style with JETAANC.
- Happy Hour – Friday, April 2nd, 6:00 at Wann Izakaya. Get together on the eve of Sakura Con for a drink with friends and fellow JET alumni.
- 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.
- UWA Japanese Study Society River Cruise – Thursday, April 8th, 7:30 to 10:30, UWA JAPSSOC are holding their annual “Stars on the Swan” River Cruise.
- Kaiwa – Thursday, April 8th, 5:30 at 43 Below. Practice Japanese with old friends and some tasty snacks.
- Dimsum Outing – Sunday, March 28th, 1:00 at Ocean Jewel Seafood Restaurant in Flushing, NY. JETAANY is heading out for some Chinese style Dimsum this Sunday, don’t miss it.
- Taiko Showcase and Class – Saturday, April 10th, 12:30 to 2:00 at the PMT Studio. Professional Taiko Drumming group Cobu will be performing as well as passing on a little of their knowledge to the audience.
- Sakura Sunday in Philadelphia – Sunday, April 11th JETAANY and the Philadelphia Subchapter will be gathering underneath the cherry blossoms. More details to follow.
- March Happy Hour – Friday, March 26th, 6:00 at Kingston Station, Downtown. Celebrate St. Patty’s Day a week late with the gang over 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.
- Hanamikai – Saturday, April 10th, 12:00 to 4:00 at Portland’s Waterfront Park. Welcome spring outdoors surrounded by friends and family at this year’s potluck cherry blossom picnic.
- 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.
- Ramen Girl Showing – Friday, March 19th, 6:30 to 9:00 at the USF in the TECO Conference Room. JETAA Florida Tampa Subchapter is hosting a screening of the movie Ramen Girl, as well as a presentation about Ramen in Japanese Culture and a free cup of noodles for all those in attendance.
- 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.
- Hanami Picnic – Saturday, April 10th, 11:00 to 3:00 at Speedway Meadow in Golden Gate Park. Celebrate the coming spring Japanese style with JETAANC.
- March Happy Hour – Friday, March 26th, 6:00 at Kingston Station, Downtown. Celebrate St. Patty’s Day a week late with the gang over at JETAANE.
- 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.
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.
- 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.
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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.
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