Our fourth annual “A Celebration of Japanese Culture” at the Missouri History Museum had a great turnout, drawing over 150 people. Visitors enjoyed both the beautiful May weather in Forest Park and a taste of Japanese culture inside the museum. Our friendly greeters, enthusiastic emcee, delicious refreshment, and attractive displays made all visitors feel welcome and at home. The skillful demonstrations of ikebana, tea ceremony, hair styling, and kimono modeling were accompanied by very interesting mini-lectures. The Q&A sessions were warm, lively, and even amusing at times. The special performances of Rakugo (sit-down comedy) drew much laughter. Both adults and children were mesmerized by the Kamishibai (folk storytelling). Of course, we also want to thank the Missouri History Museum for hosting and supporting our event.
"Faces Like the Enemy” was a very important learning experience. Dr. Linda Lindsey, Senior Lecturer of American Culture Studies at Washington University, gave a historical overview of the internment of Japanese Americans during WWII. Dave Shimamoto and Robin Hattori added personal perspectives through family stories and photos. The powerful and moving documentary film, “442: Live With Honor, Die With Dignity,” brought to light the little-known Japanese-American regiment that fought prejudice to become themost decorated US military unit in WWII. Special thanks to the Missouri History Museum for hosting this program.
VIEW PHOTOS HERE
Registration was filled up (and then some!) for "Women in the Japanese Workplace" on April 28. Professor Mitsuko Horiuchi gave an interesting and informative talk on the Japanese government's recent policies designed to bring more women into the workforce.
Thank you to all who attended and for the wonderful and engaging questions for Professor Horiuchi. Special thanks to the Sasakawa Peace Foundation USA and to UMSL's International Studies and Programs; Department of Sociology, Gerontology and Gender; and Department of Language and Cultural Studies for their support.
Katsuhiko Miyasaka of Miyasaka Brewing, Timothy Sullivan of Urban Sake, and Adam McBrady of Urban Chestnut provided an informative and interesting talk followed by a tasting of premium sake, sushi reception, and Urban Chestnut beer for 80 guests. This sold-out event was a phenomenal success. View a slideshow of the event here.
With 64 members and friends in attendance, the JAS hosted a lively Annual Dinner at Wasabi in Warson Woods. Peter Kelley, President of the National Association of Japan America Societies, gave a wonderful speech, praising JAS-STL and its efforts. We had the chance to hear from three participants from the Ishinomaki Program, with presentations from a volunteer, a 2014 program participant and a member of one of the 2015 program’s host families. Bruce Buckland, Honorary Consul General of Japan in St. Louis and Vice Chairman of the JAS-STL, was presented with the Service Award. After another successful Annual Golf Tournament, the JAS was able to present the St. Louis Japanese Language School with a check for $3,300, bringing total donations to the Language School up to more than $54,000. Thank you to everyone who attended. We look forward to hosting next year’s Annual Dinner!
"Japan America Society of St. Louis" is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. University of Missouri - St. Louis 362 SSB 1 University Boulevard St. Louis MO 63121-4400
