JETAA NY’s annual Meishi Exchange is this Thursday, March 11.  See the slick flyer designed by the wonderful and talented JETAA NY Secretary Amber Liang:

New England JETAA Career Workshop:  “Marketing Yourself in a Tough Economy”

Make sure to RSVP to president [at] nejetaa.com!

When: Tuesday, March 02, 3:00PM – 6:00PM (This coming week!)
Where: Downtown Crossing, Borders Bookstore, Robert M. Morgan Conference Room
Map: Borders Boston Map (near Downtown Crossing T station): http://bit.ly/%20BordersDTX
Cost: Free! (There will also be some free food)

Highlights:
We will get a pep talk from Professor Ian Condry of MIT about how to use your JET experience to further your career.

We will have a discussion with people in several different industries in which you may have interest:
*Translation
*Academia
*Teaching
*Entrepreneurial/ Non-profit
*Biotechnology

There will be a resume workshop. Bring some copies of your resume to trade with others and help each other out! The more eyes you have looking at your resume, the more ways you’ll be able to improve it. We will also have a discussion on resume dos and don’ts.

We will adjourn to a nearby bar/restaurant afterward for informal networking and relaxing. This is a great way to meet new people and
discuss your career.

Finally, for those who cannot attend the event but have some career-related wisdom/advice they would like to pass on, please send an email to webmaster [at] nejetaa.com. We’ll make sure to share your comments with our attendees at the end of the workshop.

Here’s your chance to get some JET-specific advice in your quest to career-up!

Thanks for your attention, and we look forward to seeing you there!

The JETAA Toronto photo exhibit, entitled ‘shin‘ for the Japanese symbol for “new,” is our way of marking the start of a decade.

What symbolizes shin?

Perhaps it’s a picture that sums up the way everything felt new to you in Japan when you first arrived. A festival, a ritual, a small cultural difference. Or perhaps it’s a Japan-inspired photo taken back home in Canada that shows the old in a new light.

Selected works will be exhibited March 6 at the Gladstone Art Bar, where we will also have a deejay spinning tracks throughout the night.

Come join us as we celebrate the memories of our time in Japan and enjoy the good music. Drinks will be available on site.    

Date: Saturday March 6, 2010 
Event: Shin Photo Exhibit: Japan-inspired works by former JET’s
Location: Gladstone Art Bar, 1214 Queen St. W., Toronto, ON, Canada  See map
Website:  Toronto JETAA Homepage http://toronto.jetaa.ca/cms/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=12&Itemid=26
Time: 7 p.m. until the bar’s closing time  Cost: $5 entrance fee

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 D.C.

• 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.

JETAA Western Australia

• 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.

JETAA Southern California

• 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.

JETAA Northern California

• 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.

JETAA Canberra

• 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.

JETAA New England

• 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 UK

• 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.

JETAA Florida

• 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.

JETAA New York

• 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.

JETAA D.C.

• 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.

JETAA UK

• 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.

JETAA Florida

• 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.

JETAA Pacific Northwest

• Shinnenkai – Friday, February 19th, 6:30 at Nissei Vets Hall. Join PNWJETAA in welcoming 2010 with bentos, drinks and karaoke afterward.

JETAA Chicago

• 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.

JETAA New England

• 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.

JETAA Texoma

• Karaoke – Saturday, February 13th, 6:30 at Sushi-Jin in Houston. Get into the singing spirit and RSVP today!

JETAA Northern California

• 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.

JETAA UK

• 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.

JETAA Pacific Northwest

• 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.

JETAA D.C.

• 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.

JETAA New York

• 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.

JETAA Southern California

• 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.

JETAA UK just shot out an email announcing its new website.  And it is super-sweet and sexy!

http://www.jetaa.org.uk

Up-to-date job listings.  An easy to find calendar.  A “member counter” graphic front and center.  And a friend-finder….by prefecture!

And we especially love the link to… ehhh, chotto matte… JetWit.com link ha doko deshou ka?

Well, a minor oversight that we’re sure will soon be remedied.  Whoever put the site together (and it looks like a group effort) clearly did their homework and put a lot of good thought into it.  So go and have a look around and enjoy the fruits of their hard work.

O-tsukare sama deshita, JETAA UK!

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 New England

• 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.

JETAA Southern California

• 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.

JETAA Northern California

• 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.

JETAA Florida

• 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.

This is going on this weekend!  Follow updates on the official website and also via Twitter: http://twitter.com/jetaarc

FYI, JETAA Portland will be hosting a very unique and cool JET Alumni Conference at the end of January that is intended to focus specifically on technology issues and challenges facing JET alumni chapters.

A blog/website has been set up for the JETAA Technology Regional Conference at http://regionalconference.jetaaportland.com if you’d like to see what’s going on and perhaps even find ways to contribute.

Contact US Chapter Representative Ryan Hart with any questions at us1.jetaausa [at] yahoo.com.

The latest issue of JQ (JETAA NY Quarterly) Magazine has hit the stands, and now Editor Justin Tedaldi (CIR Kobe-shi, 2000-01) working on the next issue and seeking writers.  Read on for more info.  (It also actually stands on its own as a great list of JET-relevant things and interesting JET alums.)

Hi, Brainstorm Crew!

Hope everyone’s enjoying the start of the new year (a link to JQ’s current issue is here in case you haven’t seen it yet, thanks always for your contributions and ideas and feel to link the new issue to your own sites/blogs to promote us). Below are the story ideas needing takers for our March 2010 issue and beyond. De wa…

Deadlines are as follows:

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5: Registering a story assignment with me at magazine@jetaany.org, or pitching an idea of your own for approval. All suggestions are welcome. We’ve been picking up more new writers with each issue, and I encourage all first-timers whether you consider yourself a seasoned writer or not. (Just mind the deadlines!)

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 14: Deadline for submitting a final draft of your story. Extensions will be granted on a case-by-case basis, less so for new writers.

I would also greatly appreciate added assistance with the following:

AD SALES CALLS: More sales means more JETAANY-sponsored events.  It takes under two minutes to get an answer in most cases.  Write for more info.

COPY EDITING/PROOFREADING: For those of you who like reading this thing cover to cover. Multiple times.

YOUR OWN STORY IDEAS: Anything’s fair game! Some of our most interesting material comes from suggestions from our more dedicated readers.

Now the fun stuff. Below are the story ideas. Thanks for reading and providing your support, and e-mail at magazine@jetaany.org with any other questions/ideas.

**************************************

CONSULATE GENERAL JAPAN CARAVAN

This is a decade-plus program run by New York’s Consulate General of Japan that sends consulate staff (American and Japanese) to New York high schools and junior high schools to introduce students to Japanese culture. Earlier this month, I participated as a volunteer and enjoyed taking part in a Q&A with a very enthusiastic anime/manga club and faculty. The purpose of this article will be to increase awareness of the program so more JETAA members can get involved.

ASIA SOCIETY

Earlier this month NYC’s Asia Society held a concert called “Hogaku,” or Japanese folk instruments played with modern flair. We’ve never profiled Asia Society, so this would be a great time to find out more about how they select their Japanese attractions and exhibitions. www.asiasociety.org

TENRI CULTURAL INSTITUTE

Tenri Cultural Institute is a non-profit organization with a mission to promote the study of Japanese language and the appreciation of international art forms. Based in Greenwich Village, it also houses the Tenrikyo Church, which has its own interesting history. http://www.tenri.org/

Japan Nite 2010 at Bowery Ballroom

Annual concert featuring indie acts from Japan. This year’s edition will be held Sunday, 3/21 at Bowery Ballroom. I’m looking for a preview piece con the history of the festival with quotes from either members of one of the groups or the promoters. (Info for all acts at ticket homepage below.

Lineup: Red Bacteria Vacuum / Omodaka / JinnnyOops! / Okamato’s

http://www.boweryballroom.com/event/4053

Japan Society’s Spring 2010 Performing Arts Schedule

This season features kyogen, live theater and music. Am open to profiles/reviews of any of the following listed at the page below.

http://www.japansociety.org/performingarts

Exhibit: Kuniyoshi Monster Prints‏ at Japan Society – PREVIEW OR REVIEW

Graphic Heroes, Magic Monsters: Japanese Prints by Utagawa Kuniyoshi from the Arthur R. Miller Collection, March 12-June 13, 2010, at Japan Society Gallery

Thrashing sea creatures, samurai warriors, and a giant, looming skeleton are among the distinguishing subjects of the brashest of Japan’s Ukiyo-e masters, Utagawa Kuniyoshi (1797–1861), whose populist oeuvre is to be presented by Japan Society Gallery from March 12 to June 13, 2010.

Fresh from its spring 2009 showing at London’s Royal Academy of Arts, where it was the surprise smash hit of the season, Graphic Heroes, Magic Monsters: Japanese Prints by Utagawa Kuniyoshi from the Arthur R. Miller Collection marks the first major exhibition of Kuniyoshi’s work in the United States in nearly 30 years.  The exhibition has been organized by the Royal Academy in collaboration with Arthur R. Miller and The British Museum.  The vast majority of the 150 color woodblock prints on display are from the Arthur R. Miller Collection, New York, generously loaned to Japan Society by the American Friends of the British Museum.

ISSHONI LONDON – JET Alum Vanessa Villalobos

London JET alum’s blog: events, news, review and interviews. I met her back in December and this would be a good Q&A piece for any JETs wanting to learn more about how our alumni groups operate overseas.

http://www.isshonilondon.co.uk/

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Isshoni-London/119415767689

http://twitter.com/IsshoniVanessa

Read More

Click here to SUBSCRIBE via PayPal

Editor: Justin Tedaldi – magazine@jetaany.org

JAN/FEB 2010 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page 3……..Letter From the Editor / Letter From the Secretary

Page 4……..Nippon News Blotter / JetWit Baby

Page 5……..Peace Corps Calls Out to JETs by Marea Pariser

Page 6……..Gearing Up for Grad School by Aly Woolfrey

Page 6……..At the ISE Cultural Gallery by Michael Glumac

Page 7……..Harumi Kurihara: The JQ Interview by Yukari Sakamoto

Page 8……..Nihonjin in New York – Featuring Filmmaker Takayuki Tanaka by Stacy Smith

Page 9……..Lisa Katayama on 2-D Love, Japan Pop by Crystal Wong

Page 9……..The Legacy of Tokyo Story by David Kowalsky

Page 10……JETlog – Featuring John Ellis-Guardiola

Page 10……The Language(s) of Love: Wendy Nelson Tokunaga by Nichole Knight

Page 11…….Bridge Building with Filmmaker Aaron Woolfolk by Lyle Sylvander

Page 12……The Funny Page

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 New England

• 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.

JETAA Portland

• 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.

JETAA D.C.

• 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.

JETAA Western Australia

• 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.

JETAA Pacific Northwest

• 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.

JETAA British Columbia

• 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.

JETAA Canberra

• 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.

JETAA Northern California

• Saturday, January 23rd, 6:00 at Caesar’s Italian Restaurant.

JETAA Texoma

• 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.

JETAA Canberra

• Friday, February 5th at Coo Izakaya in Civic.

JETAA Great Lakes

• Sunday, January 31st, 5:00 to 7:00 at a Japanese Restaurant as yet to be determined.

JETAA Pacific Northwest

• 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.

JETAA Chicago

• 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.

JETAA New York

• 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.

JETAA Florida

• Tampa Subchapter – Sunday, January 24th, 5:30 in Tampa. Get together with alumni and friends to celebrate the new year.

JETAA Portland

• 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.

JETAA Northern California

• 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.

JETAA Southern California

• 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.

JETAA British Columbia

• 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.

JETAA Canberra

• 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.

JETAA Pacific Northwest

• 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.

JETAA D.C.

• Happy Hour – Thursday, January 21 st, 5:30 at Bar Louie. Get together and share some laughs with the group in DC.

JETAA New York

• 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.

I stopped by the CLAIR-NY office yesterday (which is the de facto JETAA NY headquarters), and was asked by Taichi Hanzawa (one of the JETAA USA & Canada Liaisons) if I know of any JET alums in Delaware.

I know we have an increasingly active JETAA Philadelphia sub-chapter.  But I don’t know of any JET alums by name who live in Delaware.

So, if you are a Delaware-based JET alum, or if you know of any, I’d love to hear from you.  Just e-mail Steven at jetwit [at] jetwit [dot] com.

Yoroshiku onegaishimasu!

This just in from JETAA Pacific Northwest:

With the Holiday Season and the cold Northwest winter upon us, PNWJETAA is putting together our annual newsletter. Every year, we welcome any contribution our members can make, and would love to hear from you.  From the tribulations of Climbing Mt. Fuji, to the observations of a friend-of-jet observing the dynamics of the JETAA crowd from afar, any and all submissions are welcome, and appreciated! This newsletter is a chance to showcase the talents of our diverse alumni, and it is only  through contributions from members like you can we make it a success!

The Due Date for this year is Sunday, December 20th, as we plan on having these puppies in the mail by the start of the new year! Please send your articles, prose, photos, stories, haiku, art etc. to:

pnwjetaa.mediacoordinator [/at/] gmail.com

…and direct any questions you may have to the same address. We are looking forward to your work!

All the best, and Happy Holidays!

Ben Erickson- PNWJETAA Media Coordinator and the rest of your PNWJETAA Officers

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 Northern California

• 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.

JETAA Florida

• 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.

JETAA Pacific Northwest

• 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.

JETAA D.C.

• 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.

JETAA Chicago

• 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.

JETAA Southern California

• 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.

JETAA Chicago 2009-2010 Officer Election Results

• President: Robert Corder
• Vice President: Christine O’Reilly
• Secretary: Sarah Miller
• Treasurer: Thomas Osugi
• Social/Sports Coordinator: Parry Koriath
• Community Outreach Coordinator: Kristin Kutella
• Technology Chair: Kevin Greene

O-medetou gozaimashita!  Yoroshiku onegaishimasu!

JETAA Chicago Website:  http://www.chicago.jetalumni.net/

The following request was posted to the JETAA DC yahoogroup by JET alum Tina Meek (Saitama-ken, 1990-92):

I’m co-leading an advocacy called Fairfax FLAGS (Foreign Language Advocacy for Grade Schools), which is working to save its elementary school foreign language programs, currently at risk of elimination due to Fairfax County schools‘ budget crisis.

All 13 language immersion & 32 FLES (foreign language in the elementary school) programs are on the chopping block. This includes the amazing Japanese immersion programs at Great Falls, Floris and Fox Mill Elementary (where my daughters easily learn the language I struggled with during my JET years!).

We are asking as many people as possible to write letters/emails or make phone calls on the importance of early foreign language programs to Fairfax County Supervisors, Chairman Sharon Bulova, Fairfax County Public School Board Members & Superintendent Jack Dale.

Contact information & talking points are on our website at www.fairfaxflags.org. We also have a Fairfax FLAGS Group on Facebook if you’d like to support or join our cause.

Feel free to contact me for information, especially if you went through any of Fairfax County’s language immersion programs. We’re seeking testimonials!

Loss of these programs would be a huge step backward for Fairfax County (currently a role model for early foreign language).

Thank you,

Tina Meek (Saitama-ken, Urawa-shi, 1990-92)
tina.meek [/at/] yahoo [/dot/] com

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 Canberra

• 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.

JETAA Great Lakes

• 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.

JETAA Southern California

• 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.

JETAA Pacific Northwest

• 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.

JETAA New York

• 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.

JETAA Portland

• 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.

JETAA D.C.

• “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

• 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.

JETAA Portland

• 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.

JETAA Southern California

• 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.

JETAA Western Australia

• 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.

JETAA Texoma

• 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.

JETAA D.C.

• 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.

JETAA Florida

• 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.

JETAA Pacific Northwest

• 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.

The October 2009 edition of JapanInfo is now available online.  JapanInfo is published by the Consulate General of Japan in New York/Japan Information Center and is a great source of info for Japan-related things going on in New York and the surrounding area.

Highlights include:

• Welcome Back for Former JET Program Participants
• Ambassador Nishimiya Visits Philladelphia
• “Art of the Samurai” Opens at the Met
• From the Ambassador’s Desk
• And plenty of things to do and see on the Events Calendar.

Read below for the write-up of the Welcome Back Reception.

Read More

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.

Via JETAA Florida:

Hello everyone.  Here are two upcoming JETAA events I’d like you all to be aware of.

Thanks
Tom Gregorich

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.

JETAA British Columbia

• 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.

JETAA New York

• 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

• 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.

JETAA Southern California

• “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.

JETAA D.C.

• 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.

JETAA Canberra

• 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.

JETAA Northern California

• 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.

Page 3……..Letter From the Editor / Letter From the Treasurer
Page 4……..Nippon News Blotter / CJ’s Wedding
Page 5……..Comings & Goings / JETAA National Conference in Chicago
Page 6……..JETAANY Annual Softball Tournament
Page 7……..Working the Written Word by Alexei Esikoff
Page 8……..Nihonjin in New York – Featuring JETRO’s Maya Eiki-Law by Joe Marucheck
Page 8……..Actor Jun Kim Talks heavenly BENTO by Adren Hart
Page 9……..Americans on Fuji: Talking with Author Sara Backer by Veronika Ruff
Page 10……International Visitor Leadership Program Interpreting by Stacy Smith

Page 11……JQ&A with New York Anime Festival’s Peter Tatara by Justin Tedaldi

Page 13……Anvil with Sacha Gervasi:  The JQ Interview: by Justin Tedaldi

Page 14……What We Did This Summer – Photos

Page 15……Theatre Review: A Recipe for heavenly BENTO by Adren Hart

Page 16……Film Review: Hayao Miyazaki’s Ponyo by Lyle Sylvander

Page 17……Book Corner: The China Lover by David Kowalsky

Page 18……Ace Frehley: Back in the New York Groove by Justin Tedaldi

Page 20……New York Anime Festival Photos

Page 21……Film Review: The Cove by Elizabeth Wanic

Page 21……Book Corner: Japanese Kitchen Knives / Food Carving by Yukari Sakamoto

Page 23……Top 12 List / Life After the B.O.E. / Sponsors Index

Are you a JET alum in Montana?  Do you know any JET alums in Montana?  Then get in touch with Pat Hauge (Nagasaki-ken, 2006-09).  He’s looking to link up with other JET alums in the (rather large) vicinity.  Here’s his request:

I just returned from 3 years on JET in Nagasaki, and am living back in Missoula. Just wondering if there are any ex-JETs in the area. If so, I’d love to hear from you and maybe meet up for lunch or a Missoula microbrew.

Looking forward to hearing back from you,

Pat Hauge (Nagasaki 2006-2009)  pbh406 [/at/] yahoo [/dot/] com

JetWit followed up with Pat to find out how life is out there and how he gets his “Japan fix.”  Here’s Pat’s response:

I have recently returned home after a long 3 years in Japan so I’m still working on satisfying my “Montana fix”. Though I guess the biggest thing I miss at this point would be sashimi.I lived on a small fishing island off the coast of Nagasaki ken where the raw fish was as dank as you could find. There are a couple decent Japanese restaurants here in Missoula, Sushi Hana and Nara, which both have dollar sushi night’s. They’ll never really compare, but I guess they do give me that weekly fix.  There are quite a few Japanese college students here in town at the University of Montana, so I have a chance to practice my Japanese and hear some eeeeee’s, or sugoooi’s which makes me feel not quite as far away from the rising sun.

Although living in Japan on JET was an amazing experience, I am actually quite happy being back in Missoula, Montana (even though it was -10 degrees Fahrenheit in early October last week) where I just bought a house and am beginning a career as a financial planner.

If anyone is in the area I’d love to get together, chat about Japan, grab a pint of beer, or eat some dollar sushi, so hit me up!

cheers,

Pat

Via JET alum Vanessa Villalobos, the Communications Officer for JETAA UK as well as the publisher of the Isshoni London website.

In case you didn’t know, sake tastings are all the rage in London. Do you really know your Nihonshu? Following the great success of our last chilled sake tasting in June, we’ll be holding a cosy autumn tasting with delicious, warming sakes. Join us for an educational night, with sake and accompanying nibbles.

WHEN: Tuesday, October 20, 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm

The Tsuru Restaurant tasting includes 4 different types of sake, served with sushi and a selection from Tsuru’s Japanese Tapas menu. At only £18 per person this is truly great value! First come, first served… reserve your place quickly to avoid disappointment.

If you’d like to attend, please register by sending an email to Vanessa at londoncomms [at] jetaa.org.uk

Details of how to secure your place by sending £18 will then follow.

JETAA Chicago Newsletter Editor Elizabeth Friedman (Shimane-ken, 2003-04) has put out the the JETAA Chicago Fall 2009 Newsletter (PDF).  Have a look-and-see at what’s going on in Chicago’s JET-world:

http://www.chicago.jetalumni.net/newsletter/2009_Fall_Newsletter.pdf

• Letter from the President
• JETAA National Conference (hosted by Chicago)
• Photos from the JETAA National Conference
• Green Teaist Tea Tasting
• Japan America Society of Chicago Events
• Volunteer Opportunity

Thanks to JETAA Northern California Co-President Rod McLeod for sharing the following:

This rare and special event introduces audiences to the history of kabuki, featuring an informative lecture and exquisite performance of the classical, stylized Japanese theatre form. Celebrated kabuki actors Kyozo Nakamura and Matanosuke Nakamura lead a 14-member troupe from the world-renowned Shochiku Co.

Actors

• Kyozo Nakamura
• Matanosuke Nakamura

Musicians

• Ichishiro Yoshimura: Classical Japanese vocal ensemble
• Ishinosuke Yoshimura: Classical Japanese vocal ensemble
• Shoen Kineya: Shamisen
• Rokujiro Kineya: Shamisen
• Dentaro Tanaka: Japanese flute
• Tashu Mochizuki: Japanese standing drum
• Takijuro Mochizuki: Japanese shoulder drum

Presented by the College of Creative Arts and College of Humanities at San Francisco State University, General Consulate of Japan and Japan Foundation.

Press coverage

Hokubei Mainichi, Oct. 17, 2009

Via Michelle Fox of JETAA Sydney:

Returnees Networking & Careers Night:  “Jump into life after JET”

Looking for a job, or a change of career? Come to our Networking and Careers night for JET Returnees, or any jobseekers in Sydney.

When: October 30, 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm

Where: The Japan Foundation

Keynote speaker – Paul Burgess, Author of Natural Born Success as shown on Today Tonight.

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

JETAA Jamaica (ya’ mon, there really is a JET alumni chapter in Jamaica) is hosting this year’s JETAA International Conference today and all weekend.  And in a nice use of new media, Ryan Hart, one of JETAA USA’s three country reps, is Twittering live from the conference and doing a great job.

Here’s the feed for all the JETAA conference junkies out there:  http://twitter.com/jetaausa

And here’s a sampling of some of the tweets so far (some of which are clearly in my interest to re-post):

Steven H at JETWIT got another special mention in the CLAIR presentation. Steven will be on the next JET Streams too. awesome!32 minutes ago from mobile web

JET Streams newsletter is only being distributed over email and online this yearabout 1 hour ago from web

GIA form deadines are even more important with the new system. Don’t Miss them!about 1 hour ago from web

CLAIR reminded us to save Basic GIA receipts in case of auditabout 1 hour ago from web

After lunch, CLAIR Tokyo is confirming GIA changes JETAA chapters received at the US National Conference.about 1 hour ago from web

Gloria mentioned Steven H spoke as key note at the JETAA Canada National conference. Getting serious kudos in Jamaica. Hope u have an agent!about 2 hours ago from web

The Regional Tech Conference in Portland is creating quite a buzz! Tech is definitely a huge theme for the conference. We are aligned!about 3 hours ago from web

Shree is showcasing USCapters activities with highlights on the JETAANY career forum and author showcaseabout 3 hours ago from web

Message to JET Alumni in Nevada

Dear JET Alumni,

Our office will be traveling to Las Vegas and Reno to recruit for the 2010 JET Program from October 6-9. If you are free during this time we would like to meet with former JETs to discuss the JET Program, future JET events, and the possibilities of forming sub-chapters in these regions. We also will be available to speak to future JET applicants and/or conduct JET information meetings.

Please contact Peter Weber at jet@cgjsf.org with your availability. Below I have listed my availability:

Las Vegas: Thursday, October 6 (free in the evening);  Wednesday, October 7 (busy 10:00am – 3:00pm at UNLV);  Thursday, October 8 *(free in the morning and daytime)

Reno: Thursday, October 8 (free in the evening);  Friday, October 9 (free throughout the day)

Thank you so much for your time.

Sincerely,

Peter Weber
JET Program Coordinator

Japan Information Center, Consulate General of Japan in San Francisco, Attn: JET Program, 50 Fremont Street, Suite 2200, San Francisco, CA 94105; Phone: (415) 356-2462; FAX: (415) 777-0518; www.sf.us.emb-japan.go.jp/jet/

Via Mark Frey (Kumamoto-ken, 2002-06), Editor of Pacific Bridges, the JETAA Northern California quarterly newsletter.

The 2009 Summer Issue of the official JETAA NC newsletter, Pacific Bridge, is now available here!  Get caught up on all of your local alumni happenings! Read it online here: http://www.jetaanc.org/newsletter.html or in the “Files” area of our Yahoo Group at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/jetaanc/files/

This issue’s theme is “Tradition.”  Read about how alumni like you are keeping up various traditions near you, as well as other goings-on in the JET alumni world, including:

- Upcoming events like the Shobu Cup Dodgeball Match!
- Stories about local super-star alumni
- Taboos broached in SF Japanese discussion group
- New website for JET writers, interpreters, translators and job-seekers: JetWit.com
- JETAANC Scholarship Winner, Lukas Bonick, Three Years Later
- Natsu Matsuri Picnic Report
- JETAA National Conference report
- Oyaji’s advice column
- Top 10 List
- …and much more!

Please send any comments to [newsletter(at)jetaanc(dot) org]. Share your talents and build your portfolio by volunteering for the next issue (we seriously need more help)! Thanks to everyone who helped to produce yet another great issue.

Mark Frey (Kumamoto-ken, 2002-06)
Editor, Pacific Bridge

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 Southern California

• 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.

JETAA Northern California

• 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.

JETAA D.C.

• 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.

JETAA Florida

• 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.

JETAA Texoma

• Happy Hour – Monday, October 5th, 6:00 at Zake. Start the week off right with your friends at JETAA Texoma.

JETAA Pacific Northwest

• 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.

Hot off the presses from the Pacific Northwest JETAA yahoogroup:

Dear PNWJETAA Members & Friends of PNWJETAA,

SAVE THE DATE for TRANSITIONS 2009!!! – REGISTER TODAY!!! SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17th

“TRANSITIONS:  PNWJETAA Opportunities Forum & Networking Expo” is BACK!

The Pacific Northwest JET Alumni Association in Cooperation with the Consulate-General of Japan at Seattle and local businesses and educational institutions is proud to present it annual fall career and opportunities event!  In conjunction with the recent return of JETs, who have just completed their contracts in Japan, PNWJETAA is putting together a great program open to all PNWJETAA Members & Friends of PNWJETAA!

• LOOKING FOR A JOB?
• CONSIDERING A CHANGE IN CAREER PATH?
• INTERESTED IN LEARNING MORE ABOUT OPPORTUNITIES IN THE COMMUNITY?
• SEEKING TO SHARE YOUR SKILLS AND ENERGY FOR A GREAT CAUSE?
• CONSIDERING GRAD SCHOOL?

THEN YOU NEED TO ATTEND:  TRANSITIONS 2009:  Opportunities Forum & Networking Expo!

ON-LINE PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED, SO REGISTER HERE:  http://spreadsheets.google.com/viewform?hl=en&formkey=dEpYWE9tajBIUG5PTS1jckd1aVE5OWc6MA

This year’s program will include:

• Opportunities Forum:

o   Key note speakers who will address the current job market & grad school options

o   Panel (based on needs of those who register, this may break into 2 separate panels) with information & advice for:

§  Getting into the job market

§  Volunteering to serve the community & broaden your social & professional networking circles

§  Strategies on how to use your JET experience when applying to grad school

• Networking Expo –  Connect with a variety of organizations including:

o   Local Companies

o   Educational Institutions

o   Community Service Groups

o   J-LINK Businesses (J-Link is comprised of companies & organizations owned by or endorsed by PNWJETAA Members)

WHEN – Saturday, October 17^th, Noon – 5:30 pm

WHERE – Kirkland, WA

ATTIRE – Dress for Success!

COST – $5 for JET Program Alumni who are registered with PNWJETAA* / $10 for Friends of JETs (FOJs) & Guests

Further event details will be provided to those who register for Transitions 2009.

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):

1. JETAA New York
2. Japan Local Government Center (JLGC) + Consulate General of Japan in New York (i.e., the parent organizations of JETAA)
3. Columbia’s Center on Japanese Economy & Business (ably managed by Jennifer Olayon)
4. Kintetsu
5. Mitsubishi (featuring Zack Ferguson)
6. Docomo
7. QUICK USA
8. TV Japan (starring Scott & Keiko Hiniker :-)

Dozo shyashin wo mite kudasai!

http://www.columbia.edu/~fl104/Softball

*****************

A nice update from JET alum Bruce Rutledge, the owner of Seattle-based publisher Chin Music Press via the JETAA Pacific Northwest yahoogroup:

Hi everyone, I wanted to let you all know about a new magazine about Japanese culture that was launched this summer.  It’s called Ibuki.

You can find it on the Web here: http://ibukimagazine.com/

The publisher has hired me to edit the magazine and has said she would love to hear ideas for stories from former JETs in the Pacific Northwest. The magazine is beginning as a quarterly centered on Seattle, but, the economy willing, it will expand both its focus and its readership in 2010. If you’re coming to Aki Matsuri this weekend, you’ll find publisher Misa Cartier there at the Ibuki table (and you’ll find me at the Chin Music Press table).

Please stop either one of us and say hi if you’re interested in contributing.

Cheers,

Bruce

For more information about Bruce Rutledge and Chin Music Press just go to  http://chinmusicpress.com

JetWit job poster Stephen Palanik (Fukushima Ken, 2004-08) learned of the following events through the JETAA Toronto newsletter and thought they might be of interest to former JETs in the Toronto area. Stephen is a translator based in Hamamatsu city, Shizuoka Ken, and he periodically posts job listings and event information for JET alumni.

Japanese Class

If you’d like a fun, casual environment where you can keep up your Japanese language skills, then sign up for JETAA Toronto’s Japanese conversation class.

Classes are conducted in Japanese, and are led by beloved long-time teacher, Sugimoto-sensei.

Conversation level is intermediate, but a lot of individual attention means that beginner and advanced students will also enjoy the class.

Monday nights starting Sept 28

WHAT: 10 sessions; 2 hours each
WHERE: Toronto Reference Library at Yonge & Bloor
WHO: Former JET participants only
COST: $60 to be paid by the second class

Interested parties should contact Sonia.

Read More

******************

JETAA Northern California and the Consulate General of Japan in San Francisco present:

The 2009 Career & Networking Forum

Sunday, September 27, 2009 – 1:00-5:00 p.m. – Kabuki Hotel

The Career & Networking Forum (CNF) co-sponsored by the JET Alumni Association of Northern California (JETAANC) and the Consulate General of Japan in San Francisco, will take place on Sunday, September 27, 2009 at the Kabuki Hotel (www.jdvhotels.com/hotels/sanfrancisco/kabuki) at 1650 Post Street in San Francisco from 1:00-5:00 pm (registration begins at 12:30).

The event will include industry-related breakout sessions and a keynote address, as well as a networking session where attendees can meet representatives from various organizations, and discuss resumes and job hunting techniques with alumni. This event is FREE for all JET Alumni and $10 for Friends of JET (FOJ).

For all veteran alumni this is a great opportunity for you make some career contacts, catch up with old friends, and help recently-returned JETs. Through the industry-related breakout sessions, we are providing an opportunity for older alumni to help mentor newly returned JETs and JETs looking to transition into another career.

Following CNF the Consul General of Japan in San Francisco, Yasumasa Nagamine will be hosting a reception for recently-returned JETs at the Kabuki Hotel.  We would like to invite all JET Alumni attending CNF to this reception to help welcome back JET participants.

Please RSVP through the CNF registration link, also found below.

Tentative Schedule of Events:

• 12:30-1:00: Registration
• 1:00-1:10: Opening remarks
• 1:10-1:40: Keynote
• 1:40-2:45: Breakout sessions by industry
• 2:45-3:00: Break
• 3:00-5:00: Networking Session
• 5:00-7:00: Welcome Back Reception

>> Keynote Address: Timothy Morey, (CIR, Aomori City 1996 – 99) UC Berkeley Haas School of Business MBA, Senior Business Architect at Wipro Technologies. Focusing on the tools that can help you take action to realize your career aspirations.

>> Breakout sessions by industry
Hear from alumni who been there and done that. Get your questions answered from alumni who have all landed new jobs in a variety of fields.

>> Networking Session
What is the power of networking? Find out at this two hour-long session where you will have the opportunity to meet with Bay Area companies and organizations, and fellow alumni engaged in a variety of fields. Alumni will also be available to review your resume and help you showcase yourself and the skills you honed during your years on JET. You will not want to miss this opportunity to get a jump start on your career search!

**Be sure to bring an UPDATED resume and business cards (if you have them).
**Professional attire is required.

If you are interested in attending please register online by Monday, September 21, 2009. Space is limited so register now!

CNF Registration Link: https://spreadsheets.google.com/viewform?hl=en&formkey=dG9BSHhvRkpFSXZwbkJJeGc0Sm1DQ2c6MA.

***If your company or organization is interested in hosting a table during the Networking Session please contact cnf@jetaanc.org for more information***

The August 2009 edition of JapanInfo is now available online.  JapanInfo is published by the Consulate General of Japan in New York/Japan Information Center and is a great source of info for Japan-related things going on in New York and the surrounding area.

Highlights include:

• Farewell Reception for 2009 JET Participants
• House of Representatives Dissolved: General Election to Be Held on August 30
• First Japanese to Complete Extended Stay on the International Space Station
• Bon Appétit with Self-Made Japanese Dishes!
• World Heritage Sites in Japan: Yakushima
• Netsuke – The Art of Utility
• From the Ambasador’s Desk
• And plenty of things to do and see on the Events Calendar.

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 Northern California

• 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.

JETAA Chicago

• 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.

JETAA D.C.

• 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.

JETAA Western Australia

• 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.

JETAA Canberra

• 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.

JETAA New York

• 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

7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Enjoy Drink Specials, Raffles, and Prizes

http://www.nydevolunteer.org/activities/2009/2009.09.25_e.html

Location:

Slattery’s Pub

8 E 36th St. (btwn. 5th and Madison Ave.)

100% of cash tips will support to

NY de Volunteer’s

“Explore Japanese After School Program”

@ New York City Parks and Recreation Center

For more information regarding the FUNdRaiser please visit:

http://www.nydevolunteer.org/activities/2009/2009.09.25_e.html

Thanks to the hard work of JET alum Abigail MacBain, current JET Program Coordinator for the Consulate General of Japan in Miami (and former JETAA DC Newsletter Editor), the Miami Consulate has a wonderfully updated JET Program page.

Have a look at Abigail’s handiwork at http://www.miami.us.emb-japan.go.jp/jet/jetprogram.html

Abigail also reports two big JET Program policy changes as of Monday, August 17:

1. JET alumni can now reapply for JET after 3 years instead of 10

2. The previous requirement used to be that you couldn’t have lived 3 or more years in Japan in the past 8 years. Now it’s 6 or more years years in the past 10.

Via the JETAA British Columbia Yahoogroup:

Hello everyone,

Hope you’re all having an awesome summer!  This is a call for submissions for the next JETAABC Fall 2009 Newsletter.  We always welcome new contributors to submit an article. Any and all ideas (JET or Japan-related) would be great!

If you’re wondering what to write about, here are a few ideas to help you get started:

*life post-JET – personal anecdotes/experienc es
*JET Life / Life in Japan – personal anecdotes/experienc es
*upcoming events or a review of events that have taken place recently (ex. summer events, Powell Street Festival, etc).
*restaurant reviews of Japanese restaurants in Metro Vancouver and Victoria
*former JET personal profiles; profiling local and prominent former JETs
*profiles on a specific prefecture/area in Japan
*Japanese TV and movie reviews
*photos, art, poetry

***For current JETs who have subscribed to this list, we would love to hear from you, too! Tell us about your fantastic life in Japan as it’s happening right now (so those of us back in Canada can live vicariously through you ;p)

The deadline for submissions is Friday, September 4, 2009!

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at at newsletter[at] jetaabc.ca.

I hope to hear from you soon!  Thank you,

Dinah
JETAABC Newsletter Editor

*******************

Great article from the Isshoni London website run by JET alum Vanessa Villalobos (who is also the Communications Officer for JETAA UK).

There’s a welcome lull in frenetic London life over August… time to enjoy some of the finer things in life: food, music and the great outdoors.

If you, like I am, are counting down the days to the Japan Matsuri at Spitalfields this September 19th, you should indulge in a little Japanese cultural exploration over the summer!

1. EAT FOR FREE AT TOKYO CITY

I know! I couldn’t believe it either! Simply book your table in advance at Tokyo City Japanese Restaurant near Bank on any Tuesday in August, anytime from 11.30am to 10pm at night. A tasty offer too good to miss, you simply pay a £2.50 service charge and the cost of drinks you order.

City workers can feast for free on everything from handmade sushi and sashimi to bento boxes filled with Japanese classics, plus other traditional Japanese dishes, and help Tokyo City celebrate their 10th birthday and the launch of their new August menu.

Tokyo City is at 46 Gresham Street, London, EC2V 7AY

Call 020 7726 0308 and quote the Tokyo City offer when you book.

2. DISCOVER CONTEMPORARY JAPANESE MUSIC

You’ll be pleased to hear Tsuru Sushi plays host to new Japanese music the last Wednesday of every month! Their 100% Genki events showcase Japanese musical and performance talent.

The events have been running for one year on the last Wednesday of each month, and attract a diverse crowd from the Japanese and local communities. Performers are also diverse, ranging from Wataru Kousaka, a sanshin player, to contemporary electronic composer Anchorsong and many others.

CLICK HERE to read the rest of this article