Career: JETAA Northern California Career and Networking Forum (CNF) – October 3
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Posted by JETAA Northern California’s Mark Frey:
Join us for a great opportunity to meet professionals from both Japanese and U.S. organizations that play active roles in the San Francisco Bay Area and beyond, as well as recent JET returnees and fellow alumni. The JET Alumni Association of Northern California (JETAANC) Career & Networking Forum will take place on Sunday, October 3, 2010, at the Kabuki Hotel, 1625 Post Street, San Francisco, from 1:30-5:00pm. Registration begins at 12:30pm. A networking happy hour will follow starting at 5pm in the hotel’s O! Izakaya lounge. The event is free for JET alumni and non-alumni may attend for $5.
The event will feature keynote speaker Andrew Hattori (Miyazaki, 2002-04), JETAANC Board Member and member of the Public Policy Institute of California; a panel discussion featuring JET alumni; and a networking session where attendees can meet representatives from various organizations, companies and members of the Bay Area professional community. During the networking session, participants will also have the opportunity to discuss resumes and job hunting techniques with alumni and recruiting professionals.
Recently returned JETs cannot afford to miss this event. For veteran alumni, this is a great opportunity for you to make career contacts, catch up with old friends, and help recently-returned JETs—your second chance to be a sempai all over again! If you are interested in attending, RSVP here: http://tinyurl.com/3xsg2lr.
For more information on this and other JETAANC events, contact president@jetaanc.org or visit www.jetaanc.org
JETAA Chapter Beat 9.17.10
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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.
- Kuliouou Ridge Hike – Sunday, September 19, 9:00 at Kuliouou Ridge in Hawaii Kai. Join in on a fun day of trekking and glimpse Oahu from up high with JETA’A Hawai’i. Meet up is at Whole Foods at Kahala Mall at 8:30 or at the trailhead at 9:00. Lunch to follow.
- Reel Anime – Sunday, September 19th, 12:15 Luna Leederville is playing host to this year’s edition of Reel Anime, a mini-festival celebrating Japanese Anime. This year’s feature is entitled Summer Wars.
- 2010 Annual JETAANY Softball Tournament – Saturday, September 18th, 9:00 at Red Hook Brooklyn. Sign up for the team or just come out as a spectator to this year’s slow pitch softball tournament.
- Book Club Meeting – Sunday, September 19th, 1:00 at the Jade Teahouse & Patisserie. This month’s selection is Never Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro.
- Kabuki Club – Saturday, September 18th, 2:00 at the San Francisco Public Library Main Branch Paley Conference Room. This month’s selection will be Bando Tamasaburo’s legendary performance in the play Musume Dojoji.
- Camping in Michigan – Saturday, September 18th thru Sunday September 19th in Van Buren State Park on Lake Michigan. JETAA Chicago is packing the car, setting up the tents and spending the weekend at the lake. Spend Saturday on the beach, followed by a cookout complete with ghost stories and marsh mellows.
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 Chapter Beat 9.3.10
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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.
- Tampa Subchapter Tsudoi – Friday, September 3rd, 7:00 at Panera Bread in the Brandon Mall. The Tampa Subchapter will be hosting their monthly Tsudoi, an informal time for anyone interested in Japanese and Japanese culture.
- Networking Event and Happy Hour- Wednesday, September 8th, 6:30 at Gordon Biersch. Enjoy the last long weekend of summer with friends old and new.
- J-Lunch – Friday, September 10th, 12:00 at Thai Kingdom. Come share your love of Japan over lunch with others in the DC area.
- General Meeting – Monday, September 13th, 6:30 at the Embassy of Japan. See old friends, meet new members and discuss upcoming and past events at the next JETAADC business meeting.
- Happy Hour – Friday, September 3rd, 6:00 at Kushibar. Old alums and new are invited to share a laugh or two over a drink at this month’s Happy Hour event.
- Aki Matsuri – Saturday and Sunday, September 11th & 12th at Bellevue College. The Consulate-General of Japan in Seattle is co-sponsoring this year’s Japanese Fall Festival. Celebrate Japanese culture and history with performances, tea ceremony and over 75 different exhibits.
- KaiWA – Thursday September 9th and 23rd, 5:30 at 43 Below. Practice Japanese with old friends and some tasty snacks.
- Table for Two Happy Hour Event – Friday, September 10th, 5:00 at the Purple Onion. Japanese entrepreneur Masa Kogure is coming to SF to talk about his non-profit organization called “Table for Two,” which strives to help solve the issue of global food imbalance will be holding a informational event.
- Cedar Point Trip – Saturday, September 25th JETAA Great Lakes is loading up the cars and heading off to Cedar Point for a day of fun in the outdoors.
- General Meeting – Thursday, September 9th, 6:00 at Uno’s Chicago Grill in Harvard Square. Come share in the discussion about the future of NEJETAA.
- Book Club Meeting – Thursday, September 9th, 7:00 in Fort Greene, Brooklyn. This month’s selection is Natuso Kirino’s “Out.” Start reading now so you can contribute to the discussion.
- Samurai Sword Fighting Class – Saturday, September 11th, 2:00 to 4:00 at 440 Studios 4A. Samurai performer Yoshi Amao will be leading a special class on Samurai Sword Fighting, going over a variety of basic techniques with the class. Don’t miss this one of a kind experience.
- Clash of the Baseball Titans – Ichiro vs. Matsui – Friday, September 10th, at Angels Stadium in Anaheim. Come out for a day at the ballpark to see the Angels take on the Seattle Mariners, followed by fireworks after the game.
- JETAA Golf Classic – Saturday, September 11th, 1:00 at Monterey Park Golf Course. Dust off the clubs and show your skills on the links for a friendly JETAA golf get together.
- Camping in Michigan – Saturday, September 18th thru Sunday September 19th in Van Buren State Park on Lake Michigan. JETAA Chicago is packing the car, setting up the tents and spending the weekend at the lake. Spend Saturday on the beach, followed by a cookout complete with ghost stories and marsh mellows.
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 Chapter Beat 8.27.10
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Freelance writer/editor Jonathan Trace (Fukuoka-ken, 2005-08) takes us on a walk around the JET Alumni community for another edition of JETAA Chapter Beat.
- Bowling in Aiea – Saturday, August 28th, 4:45 to 7:00 at Aiea Bowl. Set em up and knock em down with JETAA Hawaii this month.
- London Pub Night – Thursday, September 2nd, 6:30 at the Crane and Tortoise. Practice your Japanese, see old friends and have some authentic Japanese cuisine at this month’s Pub Night in London.
- O-Shaberikai – Wednesday, September 1st, 6:00 at Coo Izakaya in Civic. Join in and meet Japanese people living in Canberra and other locals interested in Japan.
- Nara Candle Festival Volunteers Needed – As planning for the annual Nara Candle Festival continues, the search for volunteers is on for people to help before and after the festival, as well as people to work the gyoza stand. This year’s festival is happening on the 18th of September, so keep your calendars open.
- KaiWA – Thursday September 9th and 23rd, 5:30 at 43 Below. Practice Japanese with old friends and some tasty snacks.
- Reel Anime – Sunday, September 19th Luna Leederville is playing host to this year’s edition of Reel Anime, a mini-festival celebrating Japanese Anime. This year’s feature is entitled Summer Wars. More details to come, so stay tuned.
- Returnee’s Party – Saturday, September 25th, 6:30 at Fuji Restaurant in Vic Park. Join the official welcome of the returning JETs to JETAAWA as a longtime member or a fresh off the boat returner.
- Mokuyokai Hike to Joffre Lakes – Saturday, August 28th, 8:15 A.M to 8:00 P.M. at Joffre Lake. Mokuyokai is heading into the woods for a challenging hike to the emerald green alpine Joffre Lakes. Transportation is included and the trail is a sometimes steep and rocky 11km, so come prepared for a workout.
- Bonsai Class – Saturday, September 25th, 10:00 to 3:30(with a half hour break for lunch) at the National Nikkei Museum & Heritage Center. Learn how to develop, transform and care for your bonsai at this informative class.
- Anime Costume Contest – Saturday, August 28th, 6:00 to 11:00 at the Chinatown-ID Night Market. Dress in your Cartoon finest or just come out for some delicious night market treats.
- Aki Matsuri Volunteers Needed! – PNWJETAA is looking for volunteers to help with this year’s Aki Matsuri on September 11th and 12th. Do your part in helping to preserve the JET Program by helping to inform people about JET and your own experiences working and living in Japan.
- General Meeting – Wednesday, September 1st, 6:30 to 8:00 PNWJETAA is holding its September General Meeting. Topics such as event planning, volunteer opportunities and much more will be discussed, so come out and lend your voice to the future of your chapter.
- Happy Hour – Friday, September 3rd, 6:00 at Kushibar. Old alums and new are invited to share a laugh or two over a drink at this month’s Happy Hour event.
- Samurai Sword Fighting Class – Saturday, September 11th, 2:00 to 4:00 at 440 Studios 4A. Samurai performer Yoshi Amao will be leading a special class on Samurai Sword Fighting, going over a variety of basic techniques with the class. Don’t miss this one of a kind experience.
- 2010 Annual JETAANY Softball Tournament – Saturday, September 18th, 9:00 at Red Hook Brooklyn. Sign up for the team or just come out as a spectator to this year’s slow pitch softball tournament.
- Book Club Meeting – Thursday, September 9th, 7:00 in Fort Greene, Brooklyn. This month’s selection is Natuso Kirino’s “Out.” Start reading now so you can contribute to the discussion.
- Clash of the Baseball Titans – Ichiro vs. Matsui – Friday, September 10th, at Angels Stadium in Anaheim. Come out for a day at the ballpark to see the Angels take on the Seattle Mariners, followed by fireworks after the game.
- JETAA Golf Classic – Saturday, September 11th, 1:00 at Monterey Park Golf Course. Dust off the clubs and show your skills on the links for a friendly JETAA golf get together.
What happened at your chapter’s event? If you attend(ed) any of these exciting events, JetWit would love to hear about them. Just contact Jonathan Trace with any info, stories or comments.
JET ROI: Japanese media coverage of the JETAA USA National Conference
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Update 8/25/10: Kyodo has put out an English version of the article. Here are links:
- http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20100817a8.html
- http://www.japantoday.com/category/national/view/us-alumni-call-for-continuation-of-jet-program
Kyodo News Service ran an article in Japanese on the JETAA USA National Conference dated August 16 that was carried by a number of Japanese local newspapers. The article resulted from the JETAA press release issued at the end of the Conference. Below is the list of the papers. Thanks to Noriko Furuhata of the Consulate General of Japan in New York for sharing the information. (BTW, if anyone wants to write up an English summary of the article in the comments section of this post, that would be greatly appreciated.):
- 徳島新聞 Tokushima Shimbun http://www.topics.or.jp/worldNews/worldTopics/2010/08/2010081601000165.html
- 京都新聞 Kyoto Shimbun http://www.kyoto-np.co.jp/politics/article/20100816000030
- 千葉トピ Chiba Nippo http://www.chibanippo.co.jp/news/world/entertaiment_kiji.php?i=nesp1281924322
- 山形新聞 Yamagata Shimbun http://yamagata-np.jp/news_core/index_pr.php?kate=Lifestyle_Human_Interest&no=2010081601000165&keyword=%A5%B8%A5%A7%A5%A4%A5%BD%A5%F3
- 新潟日報 Niigata Nippo https://www.niigata-nippo.co.jp/world/lifestyle/2010081601000165.html
- 大分合同新聞 Oita Godo Shimbun http://www.oita-press.co.jp/worldTopics/2010/08/2010081601000165.html
- 山陽新聞 Sanyo Shimbun http://www.sanyo.oni.co.jp/news_k/news/d/2010081601000165/
- 河北新報 Kahoku Shimpo http://www.kahoku.co.jp/news/2010/08/2010081601000165.htm
- 西日本新聞 Nishi Nippon Shimbun http://www.nishinippon.co.jp/nnp/item/191143
- 山陰中央新報 Sanin Chuo Shinpo http://www.sanin-chuo.co.jp/newspack/modules/news/article.php?storyid=1059682016
- 北國・富山新聞 Hokkoku Toyama Shimbun http://www.hokkoku.co.jp/newspack/09kurasi2010081601000165.html
- 高知新聞 Kochi Shimbun http://203.139.202.230/?&nwSrl=224803&nwVt=npd
- 中日新聞 Chunichi Shimbun http://www.chunichi.co.jp/s/article/2010081601000165.html
- 神戸新聞 Kobe Shimbun http://www.kobe-np.co.jp/knews/0003323442.shtml
- 下野新聞 Shimotsuke Shimbun http://www.shimotsuke.co.jp/news/domestic/life/news/20100816/367829
- 岩手日報 Iwate Nippo http://www.iwate-np.co.jp/newspack/cgi-bin/newspack_s.cgi?s_lifestyle_l+CN2010081601000165_1
- 静岡新聞 Shizuoka Shimbun http://www.shizushin.com/news/culture/topix/2010081601000165
- 大阪日々新聞 Osaka Nichinichi Shimbun https://www.nnn.co.jp/dainichi/knews/100816/20100816024.html
- 中国新聞 Chugoku Shimbun http://www.chugoku-np.co.jp/News/Sp201008160110.html
- 佐賀新聞 Saga Shimbun http://www.saga-s.co.jp/news/global/corenews.0.1706307.article.html
- 熊本日報 Kumamoto Nippo http://kumanichi.com/news/kyodo/life/201008/20100816004.shtml
A few more links to the article that ran in major Japanese publications online:
- http://sankei.jp.msn.com/world/america/100816/amr1008161052004-n1.htm
- http://www.47news.jp/CN/201008/CN2010081601000165.html
- http://www.nikkei.com/news/latest/article/g=96958A9C9381959FE3E4E2E3E38DE3E4
- http://www.kyoto-np.co.jp/country/article/20100816000030
- http://www.nagasaki-np.co.jp/f24/CN20100816/li2010081601000165.shtml
- http://www.chunichi.co.jp/s/article/2010081601000165.html
- http://www.tokyo-np.co.jp/s/article/2010081601000165.html
Also, below is a scan of an article in the Tokyo Shimbun that was written by one of their reporters who actually attended the Conference and has quotes from some of the JETAA chapter representatives with whom he spoke:
JETAA Chapter Beat 8.20.10
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Freelance writer/editor Jonathan Trace (Fukuoka-ken, 2005-08) takes us on a walk around the JET Alumni community for another edition of JETAA Chapter Beat.
- 11th English Discussion Forum – Saturday, August 21st, 3:00 at Inner Sunset area of San Francisco. The topic of this month’s forum is the “Atomic Bomb in Hiroshima and Nagasaki.”
- Noh Theatre Nite – Tuesday, August 24th, 6:00 at the San Francisco Public Library, Paley Conference Room. Learn about Japanese Noh Theatre with the JETAANC Kabuki Club. An informative documentary about Noh will be shown, followed by a short Noh Performance on video entitled, “The Wooden Water Well.”
- New People’s J-Pop Summit Festival Volunteers Needed – The New People J-Pop Center is hosting the J-Pop Summer Festival in Japantown in San Francisco and they are looking for volunteers to help with the many planned events. Get back into the spirit of the summer matsuri and help out.
- Go-Cart Mayhem and Networking Night – Saturday, August 21st, 7:00 to 9:00 at the Houston Grand Prix. Join Texoma JETAA for a night of go-carts, video games, pinball and more. See old friends and meet new ones over pizza and soda.
- Camping in Michigan – Saturday, September 18th thru Sunday September 19th in Van Buren State Park on Lake Michigan. JETAA Chicago is packing the car, setting up the tents and spending the weekend at the lake. Spend Saturday on the beach, followed by a cookout complete with ghost stories and marsh mellows.
- Happy Hour – Friday, August 27th, 6:00 at McCormick and Schmicks. Join the guys at JETAANE for a night of relaxation and fun at this month’s Happy Hour event.
- Aki Matsuri Volunteers Needed! – PNWJETAA is looking for volunteers to help with this year’s Aki Matsuri on September 11th and 12th. Do your part in helping to preserve the JET Program by helping to inform people about JET and your own experiences working and living in Japan.
- Tsukimi no Kai – Saturday, August 21st, 7:00 to 10:00 at the Seattle Japanese Garden. Gaze up at the harvest moon this month for a moonviewing event that includes haiku readings, music, tea ceremony and more.
- Historic Walking Tour: Jewish & Japanese Strathcona – Friday, August 27th, 1:30 to 3:30. The Jewish Museum & Archives of BC are presenting a tour of the histories of both early Jewish and Japanese communities in Vancouver, including the Jewish and Japanese Strathcona landmarks, Oppenheimer Park and more.
- Mokuyokai Hike to Joffre Lakes – Saturday, August 28th, 8:15 A.M to 8:00 P.M. at Joffre Lake. Mokuyokai is heading into the woods for a challenging hike to the emerald green alpine Joffre Lakes. Transportation is included and the trail is a sometimes steep and rocky 11km, so come prepared for a workout.
- Bonsai Class – Saturday, September 25th, 10:00 to 3:30(with a half hour break for lunch) at the National Nikkei Museum & Heritage Center. Learn how to develop, transform and care for your bonsai at this informative class.
- Annual JETAA Wales Picnic – Sunday, August 22nd, 1:00 at Bute Park in Cardiff. Get out the picnic basket and get outside with JETAA UK for their annual picnic in Bute Park. Friends and family of JETs are invited, so don’t miss it.
- JETAA Masters Golf 2010 – Sunday, August 22nd, 10:30 at McMenamins Edgefield’s Pub Course in Troutdale. Compete for the Sugoi “Green Jacket” at this years JETAA Portland Masters Tournament. Golfers of all levels are welcome to join and share in this exciting and fun day.
What happened at your chapter’s event? If you attend(ed) any of these exciting events, JetWit would love to hear about them. Just contact Jonathan Trace with any info, stories or comments.
JETAA Chapter Beat 8.12.10
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Freelance writer/editor Jonathan Trace (Fukuoka-ken, 2005-08) takes us on a walk around the JET Alumni community for another edition of JETAA Chapter Beat.
- Salsa on the Beach – Saturday, August 14th, 6:00 to 10:00 at Alki Beach. Find your groove and do a little salsa on the beach this weekend. Feel free to just enjoy the show or join in if the mood strikes.
- Aki Matsuri Volunteers Needed! – PNWJETAA is looking for volunteers to help with this year’s Aki Matsuri on September 11th and 12th. Do your part in helping to preserve the JET Program by helping to inform people about JET and your own experiences working and living in Japan.
- Tsukimi no Kai – Saturday, August 21st, 7:00 to 10:00 at the Seattle Japanese Garden. Gaze up at the harvest moon this month for a moonviewing event that includes haiku readings, music, tea ceremony and more.
- Day at the National Zoo – Saturday, August 14th, 10:00 to 12:00 noon at the National Zoo. Enjoy a day outside exploring the animal kingdom at the zoo with JETAADC.
- Bowling in Aiea – Saturday, August 28th, 4:45 to 7:00 at Aiea Bowl. Set em up and knock em down with JETAA Hawaii this month.
- Annual JETAA Wales Picnic – Sunday, August 22nd, 1:00 at Bute Park in Cardiff. Get out the picnic basket and get outside with JETAA UK for their annual picnic in Bute Park. Friends and family of JETs are invited, so don’t miss it.
- Noh Theatre Nite – Tuesday, August 24th, 6:00 at the San Francisco Public Library, Paley Conference Room. Learn about Japanese Noh Theatre with the JETAANC Kabuki Club. An informative documentary about Noh will be shown, followed by a short Noh Performance on video entitled, “The Wooden Water Well.”
- JETAA Masters Golf 2010 – Sunday, August 22nd, 10:30 at McMenamins Edgefield’s Pub Course in Troutdale. Compete for the Sugoi “Green Jacket” at this years JETAA Portland Masters Tournament. Golfers of all levels are welcome to join and share in this exciting and fun day.
- Summer BBQ – Saturday, August 14th, 11:30 to 4:30 at Jericho Beach Park in Vancouver. Enjoy a day of cooking out and fun games with JETAABC.
- Sake with the Haiku Geisha Play Reading – Friday, August 13th, 8:30 at the Tinker Auditorium. JETAANY is presenting a one night only reading of the critically acclaimed play “Sake with the Haiku Geisha,” written by JET alumnus and playwright Randall David Cook.
- Japanese Folk Dance, Bon Odori Class – Saturday, August 14th, 2:00 to 3:30 at DANY Studios. Momo Suzuki, founder and director of the Japanese Folk Dance Institute of NY will be teaching a Bon Odori class, so come try your hand at some Japanese dance.
What happened at your chapter’s event? If you attend(ed) any of these exciting events, JetWit would love to hear about them. Just contact Jonathan Trace with any info, stories or comments.
Event: “Sake With the Haiku Geisha” reading, August 13 (NYC)
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JET ALUMNI ASSOCIATION OF NEW YORK (JETAA NY)
with support from the Consulate General of Japan in New York
Presents
A Special Play Reading of critically acclaimed Off Broadway Play
SAKE WITH THE HAIKU GEISHA
Graphic by JET alum Amber Liang
The JET Alumni Association of New York is pleased to present a limited one-night reading of the critically acclaimed play “Sake with the Haiku Geisha,” written by JET alumnus and playwright, Randall David Cook (Fukui-ken, 1991-93).
Date: Friday, August 13
Start time: 8:30 p.m.
Location: Tinker Auditorium (between Park & Madison Aves.) 22 E 60th St, New York, NY 10065, (212) 355-6100
Cost:
- $5 in advance ($10 at the door) for JET alumni
- $10 in advance ($15 at the door) for Friends of JET
CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS ON-LINE VIA PAYPAL
“Sake with the Haiku Geisha” premiered Off-Broadway in 2006 and was based on the collective experiences of three JETs who were placed in Fukui-ken from 1991-1993: an American from South Carolina, a Canadian from Nova Scotia and an English woman from Devon. The structure of the play is inspired by the classic Noh play: an opening ceremony, five acts (each of which uses a different speaker and a spirit or ghost), and a closing ceremony. The show starts on at a farewell party for the visiting JETS, and first three acts are told from the perspective of the visiting JETs, and then the tables turn, and the final two acts are told from the perspective of two Japanese: the supervisor of the Canadian JET, and the geisha’s story, which closes out the play.
The first act, “Sushi and Scones” was a finalist in five major festivals in the USA and England, won the “Best Play” award at the Southeastern Playwrights Conference and was taped and broadcast by as a BBC radio play in late 2005. See a full review of the play in the New York Times.
This event is being organized in cooperation with the Consulate General of Japan in New York.
Freelance writer/editor Jonathan Trace (Fukuoka-ken, 2005-08) takes us on a walk around the JET Alumni community for another edition of JETAA Chapter Beat.
- Shabu Shabu & Karaoke Night – Friday, August 13th. Come out for a night of boiled delicacies and singing mayhem with the group in Sydney.
- Origami Workshop – Saturday, September 18th. Catch up with old friends while learning to fold paper like a pro. Details forthcoming.
- Summer BBQ – Saturday, August 14th, 11:30 to 4:30 at Jericho Beach Park in Vancouver. Enjoy a day of cooking out and fun games with JETAABC.
- Tampa Subchapter Tsudoi – Friday, August 6th, 7:00 at Panera Bread in the Brandon Mall. The Tampa Subchapter will be hosting their monthly Tsudoi, an informal time for anyone interested in Japanese and Japanese culture.
- Sake with the Haiku Geisha Play Reading – Friday, August 13th, 8:30 at the Tinker Auditorium. JETAANY is presenting a one night only reading of the critically acclaimed play “Sake with the Haiku Geisha,” written by JET alumnus and playwright Randall David Cook.
- Japanese Folk Dance, Bon Odori Class – Saturday, August 14th, 2:00 to 3:30 at DANY Studios. Momo Suzuki, founder and director of the Japanese Folk Dance Institute of NY will be teaching a Bon Odori class, so come try your hand at some Japanese dance.
- Nihongo Dake Dinner – Wednesday, August 25th, 7:00 to 9:00 at Gyu Kaku in the East Village. Get your yakiniku fix while doing your best to remember some Japanese at this month’s Nihongo Dake Dinner.
- Samurai Sword Fighting Class – Saturday, September 11th, 2:00 to 4:00 at 440 Studios 4A. Samurai performer Yoshi Amao will be leading a special class on Samurai Sword Fighting, going over a variety of basic techniques with the class. Don’t miss this one of a kind experience.
- DrumSTRONG 3 – Friday, August 6th, 7:30 at the Neurosciences Institute Auditorium in San Diego. The Japan Society of San Diego and Tijuana are hosting Drumstrong 3, the third in a series of cross-cultural drumming concerts produced by San Diego Taiko. This year features Leilsa, a San Diego based Tahitian drum and dance group.
- Sushi & Sake Tasting Volunteers Needed – JETAASC is putting the call out for volunteers at this years Sake Tasting Event held at the Kyoto Grand Hotel on August 6th as part of the Nisei Week Festival in Little Tokyo.
- Nihongo Dake Dinner – Saturday, August 7th, 6:00 at West Covina. This month’s dinner is an internationally themed BYOB Pot-Luck, so dust off the Japanese skills and get ready for a flavorful night.
- Hiroshima to Hope – Friday, August 6th, 6:00 to 9:30, on the northwest shore of Green Lake. This annual event seeks to remember those who were lost in the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki with music, speakers and a lantern floating ceremony.
- Unofficial Happy Hour – Friday, August 6th, 7:00 at Wann Izakaya. Share a drink with friends this Friday night. Just because it is unofficial, doesn’t mean it won’t be a good time.
- 36th Japanese Discussion Forum – Saturday, August 7th, 3:00 at Inner Sunset area of San Francisco. The topic of this month’s forum is the “Atomic Bomb in Hiroshima and Nagasaki.”
What happened at your chapter’s event? If you attend(ed) any of these exciting events, JetWit would love to hear about them. Just contact Jonathan Trace with any info, stories or comments.
Freelance writer/editor Jonathan Trace (Fukuoka-ken, 2005-08) takes us on a walk around the JET Alumni community for another edition of JETAA Chapter Beat.
- Picnic in the Park – Saturday, July 31st, 12:00 at Holland Park. JETAA London will be spending the day in Holland Park’s Kyoto Garden.
- Summer Picnic – Sunday, August 1st, 11:00 to 4:00 at Carkeek Park, Shelter 2. Get out in the sun for a day of food, fun and games with PNWJETAA. Events this year will follow an Undoukai theme, with traditional Japanese games and a few new ones as well.
- DrumSTRONG 3 – Friday, August 6th, 7:30 at the Neurosciences Institute Auditorium in San Diego. The Japan Society of San Diego and Tijuana are hosting Drumstrong 3, the third in a series of cross-cultural drumming concerts produced by San Diego Taiko. This year features Leilsa, a San Diego based Tahitian drum and dance group.
- Pre-Departure Reception – Friday, July 30th, 4:00 to 7:00 at the Residence of the Consul General. Pass along some final advice as the 2010 JETs prepare to embark on their journey to Japan.
- Pre-Departure Reception – Friday, July 30th, 6:30 to 8:00 at the Embassy of Japan. Bid fond farewell’s and ganbatte’s to the new crop of JETs as they prepare to leave for Japan.
What happened at your chapter’s event? If you attend(ed) any of these exciting events, JetWit would love to hear about them. Just contact Jonathan Trace with any info, stories or comments.
JET ROI: JET Program Alums, Allies Mount Petition Campaign
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By JQ Magazine’s Justin Tedaldi (CIR Kobe-shi, 2001-02) for Examiner.com. Visit his NY Japanese Culture page here to subscribe for free alerts on newly published stories.
Since 1987, the Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Program has hired over 50,000 native English speakers to work at Japanese public schools, enriching ties between nations. Now, Tokyo’s new ruling political party has JET in its crosshairs in the wake of its effort to slash public spending to reduce its ballooning public debt. In a hearing last May, an 11-person panel of the Democratic Party of Japan ruled unanimously for a comprehensive examination of the program to decide whether it should be scaled back or cut entirely.
JET, an initiative of the Japanese government and run by three of its national ministries, has an annual budget of over $400 million. It was launched with the intentions of increasing grassroots internationalization in Japan, primarily through introducing foreigners to Japanese youth as schoolteachers across the country contracted for a minimum of one year. While the program does not require applicants to be licensed teachers (successful candidates team teach with the host school’s own native Japanese English instructor), they are expected to have an interest in Japan and a desire to integrate themselves in their new communities as cultural ambassadors.
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JETAA Chapter Beat 7.08.10
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Freelance writer/editor Jonathan Trace (Fukuoka-ken, 2005-08) takes us on a walk around the JET Alumni community for another edition of JETAA Chapter Beat.
- An Evening of Sake and Savouries – Sunday, July 18th at Hapa Izakaya’s Robson location. Join in for this delicious fundraiser for the Powell Street Festival Society. Blue Note Wines & Spirits Inc. is hosting a sake tasting, accompanied by a handpicked dish from Hapa Izakaya.
- 34th Annual Powell Street Festival – Saturday, July 31st and Sunday August 1st, 11:30 to 7:00 at Oppenheimer Park. Following the Japanese tradition of Koen Debut, this festival celebrates introducing neighborhood toddlers to their local community.
- Farewell Reception for the 2010 JET Participants – Tuesday, July 20th, 6:00 to 7:30 at the Embassy of Japan. Send off the departing JETs in style with sushi and appetizers at the Embassy of Japan.
- JETAA Chicago Dinner Party – Saturday, July 10th, 6:30 at Sakura in Mount Prospect. Come out for a nice dinner with friends at one of the most authentic Japanese cuisine restaurants in Chicago.
- Malott Japanese Garden Summer Festival – Saturday August 21st and Sunday August 22nd, 10:00 to 3:00 at the McGinley Pavilion. Learn about Japanese summer festivals and participate in fun activities including writing haiku, practicing calligraphy and more.
- Seattle Garden Daichakai and Tanabata – Saturday, July 10th, 10:00 to 8:00 at the Seattle Japanese Garden. As part of the garden’s 50th anniversary, experience Japanese culture in the form of tea ceremony demonstrations and more.
- Bon Odori – Saturday, July 17th, 4:00 to 10:30 and Sunday, July 18th, 3:00 to 8:30 at the Seattle Betsuin Buddhist Temple. Join PNWJETAA for some summer fun and dancing at this year’s Bon Odori. Don’t forget your yukata.
- JETAADC Baseball GameDay – Sunday, July 11th, 1:35 see the Washington Nationals take on the San Francisco Giants. Spend the day at the ballpark and send out some Japanese style cheers for the hometeam.
- Sumi-e Painting Workshop – Saturday, July 10th, 3:00 to 4:30 at Kinokuniya in midtown. Learn about the art of Japanese ink painting from Canadian Sumi-e artist Hiroshi Yamamoto in this special workshop event.
- July Picnic – Saturday, July 10th, 11:00 to 3:00 at Wilson Park in Torrance. Fire up the grill and join JETs old and new for a day in the sun.
- JETAASC Networking Event & Mexican Dinner – Thursday, July 15th, 7:00 at Tamayo Restuarant in the San Gabriel Valley. Get to know the departing JETs and see old friends at this first ever San Gabriel Valley Networking event.
- Kabuki Club – Saturday, July 17th, 2:00 at the Rockridge Library. This month the Kabuki Club will be viewing the summertime thriller, The Ise Dances and Love’s Dull Blade.
What happened at your chapter’s event? If you attend(ed) any of these exciting events, JetWit would love to hear about them. Just contact Jonathan Trace with any info, stories or comments.
JETAA Chapter Beat 5.21.10
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Freelance writer/editor Jonathan Trace (Fukuoka-ken, 2005-08) takes us on a walk around the JET Alumni community for another edition of JETAA Chapter Beat.
- Japanese Cooking Class – Saturday, May 22nd, 12:00 to 2:30 at the Cooking and Crafts Room on the 2nd floor of the Nikkei Centre. Naomi-sensei will be giving a lesson on Harusame Salad, Yahata Maki, Kinpira Renkon and Azuki Shiratama for dessert.
- 2010 JET Pre-Departure Seminar Volunteers Needed – JETAABC is seeking volunteers to help with this year’s Pre-Departure Orientation and Seminar. Volunteers are needed on Saturday, June 26th, 9:00 to 17:00 and Sunday, June 27th from 14:15 to 15:30 for a seminar panel discussion. Presentation topics include Culture Shock, Your First Month in Japan, etc.
- Saturday Brunch at Lucky Strike – Saturday, May 22nd, 11:00 to 1:00 at Lucky Strike in Houston. Join the gang for brunch, including bottomless Mimosas and Bloody Marys and a free game of bowling.
- Happy Hour – Wednesday, May 26th, 6:00 at Redline in Harvard Square. Join the guys at JETAANE for a night of relaxation and fun at this month’s Happy Hour event.
- June Networking Event – Wednesday, June 2nd, 6:00 to 8:00 at La Tasca in Clarendon. Get together with other local JET alumni over sangrias for a chance to make friends and new contacts.
- Komen Race for the Cure – Saturday, June 5th, 7:40 A.M. at the corner of Consitution and 7th St. Join the JETAADC team and help raise money to help end breast cancer forever.
- O-Shaberikai – Wednesday, June 2nd, 6:00 at Coo Izakaya in Civic. Join in and meet Japanese people living in Canberra and other locals interested in Japan.
- Japan Expo – Tuesday, June 1st, 6:30 at King O’Malley’s. In order to promote tourism in Japan, there will be a Japan Expo held at City Walk Canberra. Check it out.
- Annual General Meeting and Lunch – Saturday, June 5th, 11:30 at a location to be determined. Come discuss the future of JETAA Canberra and get involved. A sushi lunch will be provided.
- Softball Challenge Writeup – The Softball challenge was held last Saturday, 15 May 2010 at Fellows Oval ANU. The Embassy of Japan team once again took the winner’s title. The JETAA, AJS and CJC team had some great games and played well. Thank you for your support — JETAA Canberra
- Japan Day 2010 Volunteers Needed – Sunday, June 6th at East Meadow in Central Park. JETAANY is assisting in this years’ Japan Day, and they are looking for volunteers to help man the YoYo fishing booth. Sign up to help with the Morning, Afternoon or Clean-up shifts.
- 2010 JET Pre-Departure Seminar Volunteers Needed – JETAANY is looking for volunteers to help with this year’s JET Pre-Departure on Saturday, June 26th. Topics include Life as a JET and Studying Japanese in Japan.
- Kamifusen Workshop – Saturday, May 22nd, 3:00 to 4:30 at East Meadow in Central Park. Join in and learn about Kamifusen, a paper balloon that is a traditional Japanese toy.
- Nihongo Dake Dinner – Wednesday, May 26th, 7:00 to 9:00 at Bia Garden. Practice your Japanese in the warm night air as JETAANY’s Nihongo Dake Dinner is being held in a Vietnamese Beer Garden this month.
- Kabuki Club – Saturday, May 22nd, 2:00 at the San Francisco Public Library, Paley Room. This month the Kabuki Club will be viewing the final two acts of Yoshitsune and the Thousand Cherry Blossoms.
What happened at your chapter’s event? If you attend(ed) any of these exciting events, JetWit would love to hear about them. Just contact Jonathan Trace with any info, stories or comments.
JETAA Chapter Beat 5.5.10
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Freelance writer/editor Jonathan Trace (Fukuoka-ken, 2005-08) takes us on a walk around the JET Alumni community for another edition of JETAA Chapter Beat.
- May Happy Hour – May 7th, 6:00 at Wann Izakaya.
- Japanese Used Book Sale – Saturday, May 22nd, 11:00 to 2:00 at Sammamish High School. The Semi-Annual Used Japanese Book Fair is back, so come out and browse this year’s selection.
- Walk for Rice 2010 – Saturday, June 19th, 8:00 registration, 1:00 start time at Seattle’s Seward Park. Join the PNWJETAA Team and help raise money for the ACRS Food Bank and fight hunger.
- J-Dinner – Thursday, May 6th at Kushi. Spend a night out on the town in DC with other Japanese people and people interested in Japan. Happy hour begins at 6:00 with dinner to follow at 7:30.
- Tampa Subchapter Tsudoi – Friday, May 7th, 7:00 at Panera Bread in the Brandon Mall. The Tampa Subchapter will be hosting their monthly Tsudoi, an informal time for anyone interested in Japanese and Japanese culture.
- 11th Annual Hakone Matsuri – Sunday, May 16th, 11:00 to 4:00 at Hakone Gardens in Saratoga. The Hakone Foundation, Hakone Gardens Supporting Committe and the Consuate General of Japan in San Francisco are happy to present this years Hakone Matsuri. Events include Japanese calligraphy, tea ceremony, a silent auction and more.
- Kabuki Club – Saturday, May 22nd, 2:00 at the San Francisco Public Library, Paley Room. This month the Kabuki Club will be viewing the final two acts of Yoshitsune and the Thousand Cherry Blossoms.
- Japanese Cooking Class – Saturday, May 22nd, 12:00 to 2:30 at the Cooking and Crafts Room on the 2nd floor of the Nikkei Centre. Naomi-sensei will be giving a lesson on Harusame Salad, Yahata Maki, Kinpira Renkon and Azuki Shiratama for dessert.
- JETAA Meeting – Wednesday, May 12th, 6:30. Come discuss the future of JETAA Chicago.
- Japanese Garden Children’s Festival – Saturday, May 15th and Sunday, May 16th, 10:00 to 3:00 at the Chicago Botanic Garden. Learn about children’s celebrations in Japan during this weekend of activities including Koto harp and Shakuhachi flute music, folktales, Karate and more.
- O-Shaberikai – Wednesday, May 5th, 5:30 at Coo Izakaya in Civic. Join in and meet Japanese people living in Canberra and other locals interested in Japan.
- Softball Challenge – Saturday, May 15, 12:00 to 4:00 at Fellows Oval ANU. JETAA Canberra and the AJS and CJC are forming a team for this year’s event, so grab your glove and join in. Practice will be held on Saturday, April 17th from 1:00 to 3:00 at Yarralumla Neighborhood Oval.
- Portland Taiko 2010 Benefit Banquet – Wednesday, May 5th, 6:00 at Won’g King Seafood Restaurant. Portland Taiko will be having a live performance, silent auction and 11 course feast, so be sure to check it out.
- J-Kaiwa – Friday, May 7th, 7:00 to 9:30 at the Hawthorne Lucky Lab. Come down and practice your Japanese and make some new friends. Nijikai to follow at the Hollywood Bowl.
What happened at your chapter’s event? If you attend(ed) any of these exciting events, JetWit would love to hear about them. Just contact Jonathan Trace with any info, stories or comments.
JETAA Chapter Beat 4.28.10
JETAA Chapter Beat, JETAA Chapters Comments Off on JETAA Chapter Beat 4.28.10
Freelance writer/editor Jonathan Trace (Fukuoka-ken, 2005-08) takes us on a walk around the JET Alumni community for another edition of JETAA Chapter Beat.
- Chicago Cubs Gameday – JETAA Chicago is selling upper deck tickets for the May 1st Chicago Cubs home game against the Arizona Diamondbacks. Cheer on the home team with your friends and fellow JET Alumni.
- Japanese Garden Children’s Festival – Saturday, May 15th and Sunday, May 16th, 10:00 to 3:00 at the Chicago Botanic Garden. Learn about children’s celebrations in Japan during this weekend of activities including Koto harp and Shakuhachi flute music, folktales, Karate and more.
- Happy Hour – Friday, April 30th, 6:00 at Daisy Buchanan. Join the guys at JETAANE for a night of relaxation and fun at this month’s Happy Hour event.
- Portland Taiko 2010 Benefit Banquet – Wednesday, May 5th, 6:00 at Won’g King Seafood Restaurant. Portland Taiko will be having a live performance, silent auction and 11 course feast, so be sure to check it out.
- J-Kaiwa – Friday, May 7th, 7:00 to 9:30 at the Hawthorne Lucky Lab. Come down and practice your Japanese and make some new friends. Nijikai to follow at the Hollywood Bowl.
- O-Shaberikai – Wednesday, May 5th, 5:30 at Coo Izakaya in Civic. Join in and meet Japanese people living in Canberra and other locals interested in Japan.
- Softball Challenge – Saturday, May 15, 12:00 to 4:00 at Fellows Oval ANU. JETAA Canberra and the AJS and CJC are forming a team for this year’s event, so grab your glove and join in. Practice will be held on Saturday, April 17th from 1:00 to 3:00 at Yarralumla Neighborhood Oval.
- Networking Event – Tuesday, May 4th, 6:00 to 8:00 at Bar Louie. JETAADC Happy Hour has returned with a new name. Take this chance to get together with friends old and new over a drink the first week of every month.
- J-Dinner – Thursday, May 6th at Kushi. Spend a night out on the town in DC with other Japanese people and people interested in Japan. Happy hour begins at 6:00 with dinner to follow at 7:30.
- Ikenobo Ikebana Demonstration and Luncheon – Saturday, May 8th, 10:00 A.M. at the Hilton Houston Post Oak Hotel. Ikenobo Ikebana Headmaster Senei Ikenobo is coming from Kyoto to give a special demonstration Japanese flower arrangement, so do not miss this rare opportunity.
- Quiz Night – Wednesday, April 28th, 6:00 at Amber Restaurant. Test your knowledge of Japanese history, poular culture, sports and more on this night of fun and games. Top 3 teams win prizes, so get your team together and give it your best.
- Brooklyn Botanical Garden Sakura Matsuri – Saturday, May 1st, 11:00 to 4:00 at the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens. Spend the day beneath the cherry blossoms with your friends at JETTANY.
- Buddha-Dharma and Meditation – Saturday, May 8th. 1:00 to 3:00 at the New York Buddhist Church. The NYBC invites you to join in the hearing, learning and practicing of Buddha-Dharma and Meditation and let a little peace into your heart.
- Yamashiro’s Farmer’s Market Mixer – Thursday, April 29th, 7:30 to 9:00 at Yamashiro Restaurant in Hollywood. Join JETAASC for a get together in the hills of Hollywood for a farmers market. There’s fresh produce, live music, baked goods, gelato and a specialty taco stand set up by the restaurant.
- Family Fun Day – Saturday, May 1st, 12:00 to 6:00 at Boomers in Irvine. Check out this day of fun activities for the young and young at heart. Mini golf, laser tag and go karts are just some of the activities planned.
- Family Friendly Event by the Beach – Sunday, May 16th, 2:00 to 6:00 at San Clemente. Enjoy the surf and the sand with JETAASC on this fun filled beach Sunday. There will be a picnic, J-E Bilingual games and more.
What happened at your chapter’s event? If you attend(ed) any of these exciting events, JetWit would love to hear about them. Just contact Jonathan Trace with any info, stories or comments.
