Chapter Beats June, 2019

 

JETAA Chapter Beat is a periodic mosaic of events taking place in the JETAA sphere. Compiled by AJET‘s Director of Alumni Relations Megan Buhagiar (Ishikawa Prefecture, 2017- Present)

 

 

• JETAA UK

Visit the UK’s First Sake Brewery

In 2017 Tom and Lucy Wilson started a sake revolution in Peckham – bringing Kanpai to life: the UK’s very first brewery championing Japan’s national drink.

We have space for up to 20 people to come along and learn about how they’ve bought this amazing part of Japan to London. We’ve reserved a private space for JETAA (plus friends), but head to the link and sign up as spaces are limited and fill quickly!

Date: 8th June 2019
Time: 14:00 – 17:00
Location:      Kanpai London Sake Brewery &

Taproom, Unit 2A-2, 133 Copeland

Rd, Peckham, London SE15 3SN

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/jetaa-london-visits-kanpai-brewery-tickets-61893110961

Want to learn more beforehand? https://www.jetaa.org.uk/news/the-uks-first-sake-brewery/

 

 

 

 

• JETAA Ottowa

Hanami

Our hanami flower-viewing picnic has moved to June 1 due to the unfortunate forecast this weekend. On the plus side, that means extra time to let us know you’re coming through Eventbrite and/or order a Sushi Fresh bento lunchbox.

Eventbrite

Join us in this long-term Japanese tradition of having a picnic under the beautiful blossoming trees during spring! Everyone is welcome, including friends and family of JET alumnus.
Date And Time

Saturday, 1 June 2019

12:30 PM – 5:00 PM EDT

 

Location

Dunton Tower

917 Sherwood Drive

Ottawa, ON K2C 3R6

View Map

Since Carleton University is close to the Arboretum, we will be meeting at the university campus at Dunton Tower and then walk over to the area we’ll be using for our hanami and bento picnic.

For those of you who don’t know, the Arboretum is a large 26 hector park, located between Prince of Wales Drive and the Rideau Canal, with a lot of open space. It has over 1,700 of different kinds of shrubs and trees from all over the world – including the famous Japanese cherry blossom trees!

 

 

 

 

• US JETAA

Clean Up For Sarah

This event was created to honour Sarah Auffret, who was tragically taken from this world she so loved on March 10, 2019.

Since Sarah has left an impression on people across the globe, let us remember and honour her together.

Sarah was passionate about her job and keeping this wonderful world free from our own rubbish that has affected the environment. Please join us in a big clean up that will happen annually on her Birthday 16th June. It doesn’t matter what part of the world you’re from let’s clean it together!

Please share and invite your friends that knew Sarah. Comment where you’re from, as we all know Sarah has touched so many lives across the globe.

 

Date:      June 16th

Time:      09:00 – 12:00 UTC+08

 

 

 

 

 

• JETAA Queensland

Seminar: Cycle Around Japan – Brisbane

Date: Monday, June 17th

Time:     14:00 – 16:30

Venue:   Dexus Place, L31, Waterfront Place,

1 Eagle Street, Brisbane

 

Join us at the ‘Cycle Around Japan’ seminar in Brisbane, where NHK World-Japan television presenter and cyclist Michael Rice will recount his cycle touring experiences in Japan and offer advice on the opportunities available and waiting for the intrepid explorer—where all roads lead to the heart and soul, to the essence of Japan.

From winding coast to snow covered mountains, from the boundless horizons of Hokkaido to the ancient forests of mythology in Miyazaki prefecture, from well-loved destinations to the next new discovery awaiting around each bend of road, cycling in Japan offers a total immersion into the atmosphere of Japan – a unique way of experiencing the natural and cultural wonders of this country in a way like no other.

Register your interest by clicking “Going” on this page or by contacting the Consulate-General of Japan, Brisbane –
phone: (07) 3221-5188
email: culture@bb.mofa.go.jp

*The seminar will be followed by networking with refreshments.

*You can view Michael’s NHK World programmes on demand at:
https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/ondemand/program/video/cycle/?type=tvEpisode&

 

 

 

 

• JETAA ABC

Pre-Departure Meeting

Date:     June 22nd

Time:     15:30 PDT

Venue:   Downtown Vancouver

 

The newest group of JET participants are preparing for life in Japan! We are looking for energetic and committed JET alumni to facilitate the passing of the torch. Consider sharing your expertise and enthusiasm with the next generation.

Below you will find details on Pre-Departure Orientation and a full description for each volunteer position. Most volunteers are not required to attend the full day but you may sign up for multiple positions. We want to provide new JETs with the best possible head start so there will be some preparation required for workshop presenters.

Register for your desired position(s) at https://forms.gle/bnrYo7xoFCA6LEX46
by Sunday, May 26th.

SCHEDULE

Pre-Departure Orientation – Day 1 (Saturday, June 22nd)

BCIT Downtown Campus, 555 Seymour St, Vancouver

Reception Dinner & Social Event, Free for JETAABC Members (details TBA)

Pre-Departure Orientation – Day 2 (Sunday, June 23rd)

Wosk Centre for Dialogue, 580 W Hastings St, Vancouver

 

 

 

 

• JETAA NY
  1. Rock Climbing Night!

Date:     Tuesday, 4^th June

Time:     18:00 – 21:30

Venue:   Brooklyn Boulders Queensbridge

23 – 10 41^st Avenue,

Long Island City 11101

Join Princeton in Asia and JETAANY for our first ever Rock Climbing Night! Experienced and first time climbers welcome! We’ll be meeting up at Brooklyn Boulders Queensbridge at the registration dest at 18:00 to climb, mix and mingle. Or, drop by anytime and look for folks wearing “Princeton in Asia” t-shirts. If you’re new to climbing there’s a free orientation and those who want pizza, bring or Venmo $5 for pizza to be delivered to the climbing gym at 19:30.

RSVP by June 2^nd here

https://form.gle/TV3JYcKAAmnpsbXQ7

 

 

 

 

• JETAA FL

1. SWFL Area Meet Up for Ramen

Date:     Saturday, June 15^th

Time:     18:00 EDT

Venue:   NAMBA Ramen and Sushi

8847 Tamiami Trail North,

Naples, Florida, 34108

 

If you are in the SWFL area and are available – please join us for a get together for some excellent ramen. Get ready to experience a little 懐かしい for Izakaya dining!

 

 

 

 

• JETAA Heartland

1. KC JET Q&A

Date:     Saturday, June 8^th

Time:     09:00 – 17:00 CDT

Venue:   Kansas City Art Institue

4415 Warwick Blvd, Kansas City,

Missouri 64111

 

The new JETs are about to ship out to Japan! Let’s send them off as prepared as possible. It will still be at the Batty House across the street from Nelson Atkins Art Museum.

 

JET Alumni are welcome to attend the Q&A to help support or watch the sessions. We will also be streaming the sessions to the Heartland JETAA Facebook Group if you want to watch there.

 

Dress-code:    Business Casual

Schedule is being finalized.

 

 

 

 

 

• JETAA Rocky Mountain

1. JLPT Study Group

Date:     Sunday, 9^th June

Time:     12:00 – 14:30 MDT

Venue:   Stellas Coffee

              1476 S Pearl Street,

Denver, Colorado, 80210

Friendly reminder that December’s JLPT is only 6 months and some days away! Let’s start studying hard so we can all 合格する!

 

I am starting a study group in June for anyone who is interested in studying for the JLPT together. The first meeting will be sometime during the first week of June.

 

All levels are welcome!

 

If you are interested in joining please comment.

 

UPDATE: Let’s meet June 9^th since Denver Pop Culture Con is the first weekend in June and the 8^th is the Q&A session for departing JETs.

 

I’ll be at Tokyo Premium Bakery around 11:30 then head over to Stellas around 12:00 to grab a couple of tables. Feel free to drop in and out at anytime!

 

 

 

• JETAA Music City

1. 6^th Annual JETAA Yakiniku BBQ

Date:     Sunday, 2^nd June

Time:     12:00 – 15:00 CDT

Venue:   Shelby Park, Shelby Ave & S 20^th St,

              Nashville, TN 37206

 

Your favorite summertime event is back!

 

Meet us at Mission Shelter in Shelby Park for our Yakiniku grill-out. Tickets can be pre-purchased online (portal will be posted closer to the date) and pricing is as follows:

 

JET Alumni, departing JETs, and children: $5/person

Everyone else: $10/person

 

Tickets are available for purchase at:

https://www.eventbrite.com/6th-annual-jetaa-yakiniku-bbq-tickets-62084528496

 

We ask that you buy your tickets no later than Friday, May 31^st, so we know how much meat and vegetables to purchase. Any last-minute guests will need to bring exact change to participate. Food, soft drinks, plates and plastic-ware will be included, so please come hungry!

 

If you have any questions, please feel free to comment below. Thank you!

 

 

 

 

 

• JETAA MN

1. Nihongo Dake Dinner

Date:     Wednesday, 5^th June

Time:     17:30 – 19:30 CDT

Venue:   Saji Ya,

695 Grand Ave, Saint Paul,

Minnesota 55105

Come join us for food, drinks and some conversation in Japanese!

 

This is a great way to meet new people, practice your Japanese skills and just have fun!

 

Hope to see you there!

Check out AJET’s Connect Alumni Spotlight featuring JETwit’s own, Steven Horowitz: http://connect.ajet.net/2019/05/30/alumni-spotlight-steven-horowitz/

 

Hendrix College record of six seniors have been accepted as Assistant Language Teachers (ALTs) in the Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Program:

• Alex Berner, a psychology major from Keller, Texas
• Jazmin Calixto, a psychology major/studio art minor from Dallas, Texas
• Adrienne McGooden, a psychology major from Siloam Springs, Ark.
• John Tran, a religious studies/neuroscience double major from Little Rock, Ark.
• Katherine Verdaris, an economics major from Little Rock, Ark.
• Hueseng Xiong, a biochemistry and molecular biology major/Chinese minor from Subiaco, Ark.

“I think this year’s success is largely the result of these students’ active participation in a broad range of Japanese cultural activities on campus and in the community,” Gwen Stockwell, director of ESOL and International Student Services for Hendrix, said.

“It has been great to see Japanese language and culture contribute to diversity on our campus and in our community. As a JET alumna myself—I served in Miyazaki, Japan, from 1998 to 2001—I’m delighted to see our graduates now be able to benefit from cultural exchange programs like this.”

Read more about the new ALTs and their experiences here!

Please give a warm welcome to the new staff at CLAIR New York

Takahiro Ando — Deputy Director, JLGC

Hello, everyone! I am Takahiro Ando, the new Deputy Executive Director of Japan Local Government Center. Like ex-Deputy Executive Director, Fukutomi, I am originally an officer at the Ministry of Internal Affairs, specializing in local government administration. In addition to my work in Tokyo, I have worked for two prefectural offices: Fukushima and Tochigi. Also, I was born in Kagawa, and raised in Chiba.

Although I have some “hometowns” in Japan, I have had almost no chance to visit foreign countries, so far. Therefore, I am so happy to have this opportunity to live and work in New York, which is full of energy and enthusiasm.
Concerning JET, my mother is an English teacher in Chiba, and I heard about ALT members she worked with. Unfortunately, I did not have a chance to meet them in Japan. So, I am looking forward to getting in touch with you!

---

CLAIR Staff Responsible for JETAA USA

Sugawara san and Fujiwara san will be responsible for JETAA activities in the U.S.  The same as last year, chapters will have a designated contact in CLAIR, separated into Eastern and Western Chapters. Shinori Nagasawa is still in New York and will be supporting JETAA Canada.

Aki Sugawara
sugawara@jlgc.org

Chicago, Heartland, Texoma, Rocky Mountain, Pacific Northwest, Portland, Northern California, Southern California, Hawaii, Minneapolis

I’m in charge of the western JETAA chapters this year. I’m originally from Yamagata Prefecture, which is located in northern Japan. Yamagata is famous for hot springs and ski resorts. Also, cherries and pears are so delicious. I’ve never been to America before, so this is my first trip. Everything about American life is new and it makes me excited. My hobby is playing instruments. But usually, I like to do things like walking and listening to music. I also like traveling. I’m looking forward to seeing many people and our getting to know each other. I’m so glad to be working with you. Let’s keep building a good relationship. Thank you!

 

Tomoko Fujiwara
fujiwara@jlgc.org

Washington DC, New York, New England, Southeast, Mid-South, Florida, Alaska, Great Lakes, and Music City

I’m in charge of the eastern JETAA USA chapters this fiscal year. I’m from Nagano Prefecture. Originally, however, I was born in Hiroshima and then moved to Tokyo. I also lived in Kyoto too. After that, I started working at the Nagano Prefectural Office from 2016. I had been to the US three time before I came to New York in April. My first visit to the US was to Guam with my family. The second time was Indiana State through a study abroad program to learn about agriculture in the US. After the program, I went to Washington, D.C., and New York. When I was a graduate student, I visited Philadelphia and Boston. As you can see, I like traveling abroad. I’ve been to Kenya, Spain, Germany, Mexico, and so on. I would like to visit the places I’ve never been to in the US as much as I can. Also I love music, including singing karaoke. I’m looking forward to working with you all and hope I have the chance to get to know each of you!

 

 

 

 

---

Farewell to Kotaro and Shigeru!

Thank you to all the chapters that submitted farewell messages to Kotaro (Tony) Kashiwai and Shigeru Fukutomi.  They absolutely loved the messages and photos you included in their personalized books.

To stay in touch with Kotaro (Tony) Kashiwai please reach out to him on Facebook https://www.facebook. com/kotaro.kashiwai. To contact Shigeru please email him at s.fukutomi1974@gmail.com

 

 

JET Alum Releases a Parody of Ariana Grande’s “7 Rings” Dubbed “Small Charcoal Grill / Shichirin”
As you may or may not know, in January 2019 Ariana Grande found her new tattoo the center of controversy when what she thought said “7 Rings” in Japanese actually said shichirin which means “small charcoal grill.”

A recent JET alum, Andy Shartzer (Shizuoka, 2014-2016), and his sketch group Overstep Comedy, made a tribute to the art of Japanese BBQ, “Small Charcoal Grill / Shichirin” — written by and starring Andy Shartzer, directed by Jatin Chhugani, and produced by Otter Lee and Helen Shih. In the original song, Ariana shows her love and appreciation for her friends by buying them expensive gifts. In this parody, “Andiana Grande” shows his love for his boys with expensive, delicious morsels of meat. While the video is a parody of Ari’s tattoo fail, it is also an homage to her aesthetic of the original “7 Rings” and a tribute to the art of Japanese BBQ.

Overstep Comedy is an Asian-American comedy group in NYC dedicated to increasing representation and kicking ass!

Full Video: https://youtu.be/r7UDE3TVUiU

Connect
Facebook.com/OverstepComedy
Instagram: @OverstepComedy
Twitter: @Overstep_Comedy

Congratulations to JET alumnus Tim Harms, member of JETAASC, who won an Oscar for best Short Film (Live Action). “Skin,” directed by Guy Nattiv and produced by Andrew Carlberg, Tim Harms, and Jaime Ray Newman, is about how at a small supermarket in a blue-collar town, a black man smiling at a 10 year old white boy sends two gangs into a ruthless war. The trailer is available on YouTube. You can learn more about the film here. 

Photo from: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt7332306/mediaviewer/rm3387127040

Chapter Beats March

JETAA Chapter Beat is a periodic mosaic of events taking place in the JETAA sphere. Compiled by AJET‘s Director of Alumni Relations Megan Buhagiar (Ishikawa Prefecture, 2017- Present)

 

 

1. JETAA DC
   1. Career Workshop
      Yvonne Thurman-Dogruer
      March 5th, Time TBD
      1156 15th St. NW, Suite 1105
   2. Still looking for a job? Want to learn how to get to next stage in your career? Join us on March 5^th for a workshop featuring Yvonne Thurman-Dogruer, Director of Administration at Brookings Institutuion. Ms. Thurman-Dogruer, a former JET, has years of experience in mentoring and guiding applicants. The workshop (located at 1156 15^th Street, Suite 1105) will include tips on resume-writing, applying to jobs, networking, and information on careers availiable at Brookings. Follow our Facebook page for more information on the event and RSVP information.

 

 

2. JETAA NY
   1. Meishi Exchange and Networking Event
   2. DATE: Thursday, 7 March 2019
   3. TIME: 18:30 – 21:30 EST
   4. VENUE: Legends Bar

6 W 33^rd St, New York, New York 10001

1. TICKETS: cognitoforms.com
2. Details
   • Join us for our largest networking event of the year! We get 100+ attendees every year so make sure to get your spot!

     When: Thursday, March 7th, 6:30 pm – 9:30 pm

     Where: Legends Bar, 6 West 33rd Street @ 5th Ave, New York, NY 10001 (Private space downstairs)

     Cost: $15 prepay (Wednesday, March 6th at noon/ $20 (Thursday, March 7th Cash at the door)

     What you get: We’ll be serving “hearty hors d’oeuvres” included in the entry price. There will be a ***special extended happy hour*** for attendees! And of course, you’ll get the opportunity to connect and meet INCREDIBLE people!

     Questions: Contact Ryan (membership@jetaany.org)

3. JETAA SG
   1. AGM 2019
   2. DATE: Saturday, 19^th March
   3. TIME: 13:00 – 17:00
   4. VENUE: CLAIR Singapore

6 Battery Road #26-01/02 Singapore

1. Details
   • 2018 was exciting, and we’re looking forward to what else 2019 can bring for us! Come join us as we create our personalised art pieces, decide on our favourite haiku writer, take a trip down memory lane, and choose our next board representatives!

     (And yes, if you would like to be JETAA SG’s favourite Haiku writer, submit your Haiku by 28th Feb! Stand to win a pair of Kiriko glasses and a voucher!)
     ~~~~~~~

     Resin Origami Art
     Haiku Writing Contest
     Recap past activities
     Election of new board
     Refreshments

2. JETAA UK
   1. Kobe International Club London Branch Opening Party
   2. DATE: Friday, 15^th March
   3. TIME: 19:00 UTC
   4. VENUE: City Miyama Restaurant

17 Godliman Street, EC4V 5BD London, UK

1. Details
   • 日本語は下に続きます。)
     We are pleased to announce that the London Branch of the Kobe International Club will soon be established! The Club acts as the international network of the Kobe City Government, where people with links to Kobe can come together and engage in a wide range of activities, such as promoting the many things that make Kobe a wonderful city, and providing useful information for Kobe’s development.
     Come and celebrate at the inauguration party: join us and meet people based in London and further afield who have a special relationship with Kobe City, in a casual environment.
     About the Kobe International Club:
     http://www.city.kobe.lg.jp/foreign/english/media/kobeinternationalclub/index.html

     Fee for food and drink: £50 (service charge included)
     * Due to restrictions on room capacity, the number of spaces available is limited.
     * Please register by Friday 22nd February by clicking “Going” on this Facebook event.

     この度神戸のファンクラブのようなものとして、英国における神戸市の海外ネットワーク拠点コウベインターナショナルクラブロンドン支部設立の運びとなりました。
     （コウベインターナショナルクラブについては下記ご参照下さい）
     http://www.city.kobe.lg.jp/culture/international/oshirase/Kobe-International-Club.html

     つきましては、同クラブ支部発足イベントを開催致したく、ご案内を申し上げます。

     飲食代：£50（サービスチャージ込）
     ※英国に留学中の大学生も参加予定で、多めに払ってもいいよという社会人の方がいらっしゃいましたら£60お支払いいただけますと幸いです。
     定員50名
     ※会場の都合により定員を設けさせていただくことをご了承ください。Facebook以外にも周知しているため、合計で50名に達した場合には、参加を締め切りとさせていただきます。
     ※人数を把握させていただきたいため2月28日（木）までに参加可否のご登録にご協力ください。

2. JETAA ABC
   1. Nikkei National Museum and Cultural Centre
   2. DATE: March 9^th
   3. TIME: All Day
   4. DETAILS: TBA
3. JETAA Southern Alberta
   1. JETAA Cooking Lesson #3: Temaki Zushi and Onigirazu
      • DATE: Saturday, 9^th March
      • TIME: 13:00 – 15:00 UTC-07
      • VENUE: Kerby Centre

1133 7 Avenue Southwest, Calgary, Alberta T2P 1B2

• Details
  1. Exciting news! We have our third cooking lesson coming up! In this lesson you will learn how to make temaki-zushi and onigirazu! Everyone is welcome, JET Alumni, or not. Cost is only $10. Parking is available. Register quickly because seating is limited! Please email sajetaa@gmail.com to reserve your place!

7. JETAA NZ3 South Island
   1. Sake Tasting with JETAA South Island
   2. DATE: Friday, March 15^th
   3. TIME: 19:00 – 22:00 UTC+13
   4. VENUE: Tomi Japanese Restaurant

Edgeware Mall

76 Edgeware Rd

Christchurch, New Zealand

1. Details
   • Join JETAA for an evening of fine Japanese food and drink.

     Enjoy a multi-course Japanese meal accompanied by samplings of five premium sake varieties.

     This event is limited to 20 participants, so please RSVP either by selecting “Going” on this event page or emailing info@jetaasi.org.

     This event is priced at $30 per person; payment may be made on the night or paid via bank deposit into account number 11-7892-0469438-00. For those paying via bank deposit, please put your name in the payment reference.

     NB: Those who drive are to follow their own alcohol standards and drive safely at your own risk.

2. JETAA Auckland
   1. AGM 2019
   2. DATE: Sunday, March 10^th
   3. TIME: 15:00 – 17:00 UTC+13
   4. VENUE: Q1/240 Broadway

Newmarket (Station Square, Newmarket)

1. Details
   • It’s time to get together to plan out the year ahead for JETAA Auckland…

     …So come along and join us in Newmarket for our AGM ^_^

     We’ve already started brainstorming lots of fun activities Japan, JET, and social-related for you all for the coming year, but we’d love further input from everyone who is a member of JETAA.

     You’re all welcome to come along, even if you’ve recently “returned” to NZ, are looking to reconnect with JETAA, or simply want to reminisce about your time in Japan ^_^

     Also, our treasurer committee position is up for election, so if that sounds like something right up you alley, put your hand up for it!

     Snacks and drinks are provided by JETAA :)

2. JETAA Chicago
   1. Soup and Rice
   2. DATE: March 8^th
   3. TIME: 18:00 – 20:00 CST
   4. VENUE: JASC – Japanese American Service Committee

4427 N Clark St, Chicago, Illinois 60640

1. Details
   • Based on the idea of Soup & bread community meals, we wanted to host our own community meal and gathering during the cold winter months.
     How does it work?
     Volunteer soup makers bring a crock pot of their favorite soup to share, we provide rice, bowls and spoons. Soup eaters make a donation which will be donated to the Lakeview Food Pantry.
     Call or e-mail to with any questions or to sign up to bring soup:
     Joan Ambo – (773) 275-0097 x228| jambo@jasc-chicago.org
2. JETAA PNW
   1. 2019 PNW Shinnenkai
      • DATE: Saturday, March 16^th
      • TIME: 16:00 – 19:00
      • VENUE: Japanese Cultural and Community Center of WA

1414 S Weller St, Seattle, Washington 98144

• Details
  1. 明けましておめでとうございます！
     今年もよろしくお願いします！

     Save the date! Join the Pacific Northwest JET Alumni Association on snow-free March 16 (Saturday) as we celebrate another year! Meet new friends and reconnect with old ones as we reflect on 2018 and look ahead to 2019, the year of the boar.

     — REGISTRATION & FOOD INFORMATION —
     The event will be potluck-style and free -so there will be no tickets or fees! Please register using the Google Form listed below, and specify what kind of food item you are able and willing to bring.

     Drink (alcoholic beverage) tickets will be available day-of for $5.00 (2 drinks).

     [[ Register Here – https://goo.gl/forms/vvhdiZFaySNgcFbm1 ]]

     — ALLERGIES/DITARY RESTRICTION CONSIDERATIONS —
     Please consider allergies to and common dietary restrictions towards ingredients such as nuts, gluten, meat/fish, dairy, mushrooms, etc. If you will be bringing an item with any of the aforementioned ingredients, we will ask you to indicate so on a large index card at the event (PNWJETAA will provide index cards).

     — QUESTIONS/CONCERNS —
     Contact: officers@pnwjetaa.org

Want to test your luck and see if you can save big on this trip? We’ve added 2 Raffle Ticket options for rooms! Here are the details:

1) Private King Room Raffle Ticket – $800 value, sleeps 2. $8 Ticket

2) Sofa Bed Raffle Ticket – $300 value, sleeps 1. $3 Ticket

Each ticket bought counts as one entrance to the raffle, so you ABSOLUTELY CAN buy multiple tickets to increase your odds of winning! The drawing will be on Saturday 3/9.

The raffle tickets are on our Eventbrite page in the link below. Best of luck!

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/jetaa-all-chapter-ski-trip-tickets-52974617507?fbclid=IwAR0IbucWLJt8_jwiYpvP1574p_pCnBqwT5A8qp3Z7rg1STnGZmiR9ZMoTD4

On Saturday, February 23rd, JETAANY hosted its first Mothra storytelling event (inspired by The Moth Storytelling Hour) at Hostelling International of New York City. The theme for the inaugural event was “Leaps of Faith.” Hosted by Steven Horowitz (Aichi-ken, 1992-1994) and Kirsten Henning (Hyogo-ken, 1999-2002), they along with eight other JET alums gave a brief five-minute story of a time when they took a “Leap of Faith” in Japan.

Ann Chow (Hyogo-ken, 2007-2009) kicked off the storytelling by taking a Leap of Faith and going on a school trip. Even though she knew it was going to be expensive because most of the money she spent would be on seafood, which she couldn’t eat, she decided to attend. Someone noticed Ann wasn’t eating and the chef made a special meal for Ann with all kinds of chicken, beef, and pork. Michael Christian Younker (Ishikawa-ken, 2006-2008) reminded all of us of the glorious onsen experience. However, none of us probably had to experience onsen on the first day with their supervisor like Michael did. Next up was Catherine Khadabux (Ehime-ken, 2011-2015), who described one of her New Year’s resolutions to use 100 different toilets. This was a challenging goal for her because her routine had become limited to work and home life during a personally difficult year in Japan. However, Catherine’s new explorations led to an uplifting change in mindset. Steven (Aichi-ken, 1992-1994) followed Catherine and talked about a dojo, which he frequently passed by. He ended up taking a Leap of Faith and joined. Steven learned a bunch of different forms and techniques. Their dojo even won a tournament! To end the first half of the event, Alex Varney (Saga-ken, 2011-2013) told us an emotional story of Charles Keller who married Tomami Ayukawa, a Japanese national. However, Charles didn’t know anything about his wife’s family and took a Leap of Faith to reach out to various cities and prefectures in Japan in hopes of finding his wife’s relatives after her passing. Luckily, Alex was able to connect Charles with his wife’s sister, and the 85-year-old widower came to Japan to meet the family.

To start the second half of the Mothra Event, MariTi Blaise Lovell, (Hokkaido-ken, 2015-2018) spoke about her students. There were six girls and ten boys in her “best/worst” class. She likened the experience with her own neighborhood and learned she needed to earn the students’ respect. After MartTi, Giuseppe “Joe” di Martino (Yamagata-ken, 2013-2018) described his Leap of Faith while traveling and having his final “hurrah” tour of Japan. He became very intrigued by a cat and the moral of his adventure was to “feed the cat!” Kirsten Henning (Hyogo-ken, 1999-2002) was a Kobe JET when it hosted England for the World Cup in 2002. She studied a plethora of David Beckham interviews, so she was able to understand everything he said. Following Kirsten was Zachary Piper (Kochi-ken, 2001-2004), who lived in a small village. He learned that many people were friendly and had lots of amazing parties, but learned to always knock before entering a house because some people liked to use “ropes and candles in their private time.” Last, but not least was Rick Ambrosio (Ibaraki-ken, 2006-2008), who, like many of us, was adopted by a Japanese family. One day, Ai asked Rick if he wanted to go to the club on a Thursday night. Rick was excited about going to a club and took a Leap of Faith when he went with Ai and her mom. After driving around for hours and going deep into the rice fields, they approach a tacky building. Rick was perplexed that the club would be hidden in the building, but was still excited about going. However, Ai’s mom found out the place was closed, so they decided to drive to the next club. At this point Rick was astonished that there was more than one club this far into the inaka. Some time later, they made it to another establishment, which was open and adorned with a massive neon crab sign. Rick was shocked to find out they had taken him to a “kani” or crab restaurant, not a club (many Japanese people have a hard time distinguishing their “r’s” and “l’s,” so when Ai said clabu, Rick thought it was club and not crab).

Again, special thanks to our sponsors Hostelling International of New York City for providing the space, Ito En for providing the tea, and Lagunitas Brewing Company for donating the beer.

Written by professional Writer/Interpreter/Translator Stacy Smith (Kumamoto-ken CIR, 2000-03), WIT Life is a periodic series about aspects of Japanese culture such as film, food and language. Stacy starts her day by watching Fujisankei’s newscast in Japanese, and here she shares some interesting tidbits and trends along with her own observations.

The sports portion of today’s Japanese news showcased the celebration of Kazu Miura’s 52nd birthday.  Looking as dapper as ever in a fashionable white suit in front of a huge cake, he shared that every birthday he wore a different color suit (past years have included bright red, yellow and blue), but that he had run out of colors so had to return to white.  Perhaps it is this enthusiasm and youthful spirit that enables him to keep pace on the soccer field with professional players decades his junior.  Miura (a.k.a. “King Kazu”) began his career in 1986, and he is considered to be Japan’s first soccer superstar.

He was the subject of a NYT profile last year, in which he was described as the epitome of Read More

USJETAA is hosting a fun brainstorm session over lunch in Atlanta on Sunday 2/16 1pm to 5pm. Come learn how to get involved and what is on the horizon for the chapter and sub-chapters. Please share with any JET alumni friends that live in GA, NC, SC and AL. Together we can strengthen the JET alumni community!

 

https://us9.campaign-archive.com/?e=&u=7484f4dce8313346df79bd3c6&id=ca1831e1ec

Everyone has stories.
We believe those stories should be shared.
The Story Pub is a place to share those stories.

Co-created by JET Alum Jay Schneider (Hyogo, ’97-’00), The Story Pub is a new website looking for real stories from real people, and we know JETs have lots of great stories to share! Whether your stories are about your adventures in Japan or elsewhere in the world, we want you to share your stories. The Story Pub accepts written stories on any topic at any time, but invites you to submit a story to our first Theme Challenge:

Theme Challenge: February 2019

Topic: New (that’s the topic–“new”)

Submission Deadline: Sunday, February 17, 2019 (11:59 PM SST)

Entries will be posted starting: February 19, 2019

Instructions: Think of a story from your own life which relates to the topic for the theme challenge. Write that story. Submit that story. Make sure when you do, you choose the correct Theme Challenge category. Wait for your story to be published.

What’s “New?”

How you interpret the topic is up to you, but it could be:

• That time you started a new job, new relationship or new storytelling website
• That time you traveled to a new place
• When you moved to a new country, city, or just a new apartment
• That time you decided to try something new and submit a story to that new storytelling website

Again, how you choose to relate your story is up to you, however if you have a great story, but aren’t really sure that it fits the theme, remember, The Story Pub accepts stories on any topic and any time.

https://thestorypub.com

JETAANY is excited to invite you and your colleagues to our first-ever, live storytelling event, co-hosted by JETwit’s own, Steven Horowitz and Kirsten Henning! Come to the historic Hostelling International NYC on Saturday, February 23 for the chance to hear true stories told live on stage about experiences related to the JET Program. Laugh, cry, and connect with other community members at an evening of spellbinding tales!

WHEN: Saturday, February 23, 7:00 PM. (Doors open at 6:30 PM.)
WHERE: The Ballroom at Hostelling International, 891 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10025
ADMISSION: $10 online (early bird special 2/17), $12 at the door. Learn more and buy tickets here.

Buy Tickets Here

RSVP: No RSVP required, just bring your ticket. See who else is coming on the FB events page.

The JET Alumni Association of New York (JETAANY) is a 501(c)(3) educational non-profit based in NYC. We are the New York branch of a 70,000 strong community of former participants of the Japan Exchange and Teaching Program (JET), all having lived and worked in Japan through the Japanese government. Our organization has been promoting intercultural understanding and exchange for over 30 years. In that time, thousands of stories have been lived and told by JET alumni, as well as the people they connected with. Through this event, we hope to share the spirit of the JET Program with you and help alumni recall their own fond memories.

Thank you for your support. We hope to see you on the 23rd!

Sincerely,

May <social@jetaany.org>

Posted by Sydney Sparrow. Click here to join the JETwit Jobs Google Group and receive job listings even sooner by email

---

Job Title: Software Engineer
Posted by: Nisshin Global
Location: Shizuoka, Japan
Contract: Full-Time

Here’s a job sent directly to us from the company:

A Shizuoka based media company is looking for a software engineer with experience using PHP and Ruby. This is a good opportunity for those who are interested in working in the ever-changing media and publishing field. N3 level Japanese required.

• Wide variety of publications across different mediums
• Creation of impactful media content
• Good exposure to the media and publishing field in Japan

The Company: This company was founded 25 years ago as a local publishing company printing free magazines with content centered around places, events, and restaurants around Shizuoka city. Since its establishment, the company has enlarged its operations to include internet- based media and creation of online content. The company is now looking for software engineers as the company is looking to extend their distribution to neighbouring cities. Non-Japanese are encouraged to apply.

Responsibilities:

• Utilise existing software engineering skills to create programs and exciting content
• Sharing unique ideas and perspectives with the team

Key Requirements:

• Software programming experience using Ruby and PHP
• Japanese N3 and up

Read More

Posted by Sydney Sparrow. Click here to join the JETwit Jobs Google Group and receive job listings even sooner by email

---

Job Title: Sales Engineer
Posted by: VANTECH Co., Ltd.
Location: Sano City, Tochigi, Japan
Contract: Full-Time

Here’s a job received directly from the President of the company:

A company specializing in the manufacturing and processing of metal filters, strainers, and electrical car components is looking for an American sales engineer to join their team in Sano city, Tochigi prefecture. With the company’s plans to break into the US market by exporting their products, this is a great opportunity for those who want to utilize their language skills and expand their network. Native English speaker with N2 level Japanese required.

• Exciting career advancement
• Opportunity to liaise between the US and Japan
• Diverse workplace

The Company: VANTECH Co., Ltd. (http://www.vth.co.jp/cs/vantechenglish/)

This company has been in the metal filter manufacturing business for over 20 years, and currently hold the largest domestic market share in filter production for the air-conditioning industry. Furthermore, products are exported to China, Thailand, and Nepal. Current employees include Japanese nationals and people from various foreign countries (China, Nepal, India, Bangladesh, Vietnam, etc.) in different departments, making this company a diverse and exciting workplace.

Following the company’s success in the domestic and Asian market, the booming AHR and automobile industry in the US proves exporting to the American market to be a promising next step.

Read More