Japan-America Journal

Volume 21, Number 2 - Summer 2003

Article Index

The 2003 Annual General Membership Meeting

Congratulations to the 2004 Officers and 2004-2006 Board of Directors

President's Message

Glen Fukushima on "Macro-Pessimism and Micro-Optimism About the Japanese Economy"

15th APPC: An Afternoon Visit Governor Linda Lingle

Contemporary Kaiseki Fundraiser Dinner

Humanity Above Nation: Joseph Heco Exhibition

"U.S.-Japan Foreign Policy Post 9-11" & "Japan's Dynamic Market"

"The Outstanding Features of Bizen from Oei to Shin-Shinto"

The "Modern Masters of Japanese Arts" Exhibition

CPASF Updates

Tour of Shangri-La, Estate of Doris Duke

Japanese-style Cooking Demo and Lunch

"What is Buddhist Education?"

Lunch with Ambassador Hisahiko Okazaki

Donor Recognition: June 2003 - September 15, 2003

Japan in a Suitcase

Welcome to New Corporate Members

Mahalo to All New Members & Membership Upgrades

The 2003 Annual General Membership Meeting

The September 18th Annual General Membership Meeting held at Tokai University began with a welcome by President Earl Okawa. Chair Margaret Oda followed with her Chair's Message, thanking the various committee chairs and members of the Society, which included Yuri Giga of the Membership Committee, Barbara Tanabe of the Public Relations Committee, Jean Rolles of the Community Service Committee, and Kenji Sumida of the Program Committee. She also acknowledged the hard work and dedication of members who chaired Society programs: the 13th Annual Friendship Golf Classic Co-Chairs Gary Oda and Douglas Goto and the Kaiseki Fundraiser Dinner Chair Joichi Saito. She highlighted both the past and future events of the Society, such as the change in fiscal year; the October 29th Annual Dinner with keynote speaker Governor Linda Lingle; the events commemorating the 150th Anniversary of U.S. Japan Relations; and the 4th International Symposium in April 2004 in Boston. Chair Oda ended with her hopes of the Society achieving its endowment goal and a fervent thank you for the past loyal support and participation of members.

Howard Karr, immediate past chair, represented Howard Hamamoto, Nominating Committee Chair, and presented the membership with the nominations for the 2004-2006 Board of Directors. All nominations were accepted and approved. Mr. Karr continued with the nominations for the 2004 Officers, which were accepted and approved. Congratulations to the following new officers: Chair Barbara Tanabe, Secretary Dr. Michael Leineweber, Treasurer Gary Oda, and Vice Chairs Ryozo Sakai, Peter Schall, Jack Takeda, and Allen Uyeda.

Chair-elect Tanabe closed the membership meeting with her remarks. She expressed how good it was to see the many former chairs around the room and her desire to focus on maintaining the Society's financial stability. Ms. Tanabe told members that she looks forward to the upcoming challenges and her new position. Ms. Tanabe will assume the Chairmanship on January 1, 2004. The Society thanks all the members who came to the meeting.

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Congratulations to the 2004 Officers and 2004-2006 Board of Directors

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President's Message

Aloha! Mahalo to all of you who came out to the Annual General Membership Meeting held on September 18th at Hawaii Tokai International College. At the meeting, members voted to reelect one-third of the Society's Board of Directors and also added eight new directors (see article on new directors and officers). We all owe the Directors a hearty mahalo for their voluntary work and service to the Society and community. Thank you, too, to all of the volunteers from the membership who help on the various Society committees and with our programs. Although Dr. Margaret Oda's term as Chair of the Society runs until the end of December, I wish to take this opportunity to thank her for her leadership and support during her term. She kept me busy.

In July, I traveled to Japan for the Crown Prince Akihito Scholarship Foundation (CPASF) with Mr. Howard Hamamoto, Chairman of the Foundation. We met with our Japan Committee (Nippon Keidanren and the Japan-Hawaii Economic Council-Japan); with Grand Chamberlain Watanabe of the Imperial Household Agency; with Minister Toyama of MEXT (Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology); Minister Counselor Hara of the American Embassy (Ambassador Baker was leaving the next day and could not meet with us); Director General of the North American Affairs Bureau Ebihara. Minister Toyama informed us of her upcoming visit to Hawaii and visit to the Ehime Maru Memorial. When she did visit Hawaii on August 2nd, Chairman Hamamoto and I had the honor of escorting her to the Ehime Maru Memorial along with Consul General Muto. While in Tokyo we also met with the President of the Tokyo Society, Ambassador Yoshio Okawara and Ms. Akiko Kuno, the Executive Director. Ambassador Okawara and Ms. Kuno will be coming to Hawaii to take part in a seminar in conjunction with the Honolulu Festival and the 150th Anniversary of U.S.-Japan Relations.

I also visited Fukuoka, Japan to meet with the Japan-America Society of Fukuoka and the Asian Pacific Children's Convention (APCC) staff and to see the APCC facilities where our 11-year old Junior Ambassadors would be housed. The APCC brings together over 340 11-year old students from 40 countries in Fukuoka where they live and learn together in an environment that enhances intercultural understanding. I had good meetings with Mr. Goro Shigematsu, President of the Fukuoka Society; Mr. Reinosuke Ohya, Immediate Past President; and Mr. Motoyuki Murahashi, the Secretary-General for the Fukuoka Society. Those who went to the Second International Symposium of Japan-America Societies in 1998 probably remember Mr. Ohya who organized the Symposium. It was also good to meet with Dr. Toshisuke Matsuura, President of the JAS of Miyakonojo who came to Fukuoka for the meeting. Both of these societies will be coming to Hawaii next summer to help clean Waikiki Beach.

At the request of Ehime Prefecture officials, I also made a four-hour stopover to meet with Ehime officials to discuss the upcoming signing of the sister state/prefecture agreement between Ehime and Hawaii and the return visit of Ehime junior baseball players to Hawaii in November.

This next quarter will be even busier with our Annual Dinner on October 29th. Please come out and support your Society. Governor Lingle has graciously accepted to be our keynote speaker. Later in October, we will have Ms. Yukie Kudo, a young journalist who will speak about the changing Japanese society and why Japan has had problems dealing with security and other national issues. In December, we will have our Christmas 5:01/Silent Auction that is open to all Society members. American Savings Bank, Sheraton Hotels in Waikiki and Paradise Beverages are sponsoring this cheerful event. Mahalo!

On a serious note, the Society has decided to withdraw its participation in the National Japan Bowl Japanese language competition sponsored by the JAS of Washington, DC. We believe conducting our own competition will better allow us to continue motivating our students, who are grouped in teams of three, to develop research and teamwork skills, while also learning about themselves. Although this results in a great amount of work for the staff and volunteers, we believe encouraging our students to learn more skills and gain more knowledge will help them to use the Japanese language with more breadth and depth. The schools have been notified and we have been pleased that more than 30 schools have responded positively (last year 26 schools participated). We will again have two public and two private school winners but instead of going on to Washington, DC, we will send the winning teams to Japan. Stand by for more information. Please call the office if you're interested in volunteering on the Questions Committee or serving as judges, moderators, etc. at the competition itself.

Also, please check out the Society's updated website at www.jashawaii.org. We are still working on it but invite your comments.

See you at the Annual Dinner!

Earl K. Okawa
President

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Glen Fukushima on "Macro-Pessimism and Micro-Optimism About the Japanese Economy"

The Society was once again honored to have Mr. Glen S. Fukushima address members and guests at a lunch program entitled, "Macro-Pessimism and Micro-Optimism About the Japanese Economy" on Wednesday, September 24th at the Ala Moana Hotel. Attendees from JASH, EWC, FEWC, HJCC, JCCH, JAIMS, Nippon Club, PAAC , and the UH College of Business Administration gathered to hear Mr. Fukushima's always insightful remarks on the Japanese economy, politics, and U.S.-Japan relations.

Mr. Fukushima was a U.S. trade negotiator at USTR from 1985 to 1990, former President of the American Chamber of Commerce in Japan, and present Chairman of Cadence Design Systems, Japan, a world leader in electronic design automation. Mr. Fukushima received his undergraduate education at Stanford and graduate education at Harvard Graduate School, Harvard Business School, Harvard Law School and in Japan at Keio and Tokyo universities.

Mr. Fukushima stated that the economy was "not as bad as foreigners believed it to be but not as good as the Japanese hoped." He explained the dichotomy from two views-views of outsiders and failing companies and those of insiders and successful companies. With the 1997 Asian financial crisis, the U.S. predicted that the Japanese economy would collapse; yet there was no sense of urgency or crisis within Japan. Mr. Fukushima pointed out the reason for both views. On the pessimistic side, factors included a decline in GDP growth, non-performing loans, the inconsistent birth rates and aging population, pension and healthcare problems, and "zombie" companies. However, on the optimistic side, Mr. Fukushima gave an example of a highly successful company despite the lagging economy, such as Toyota. Although problems exist, Mr. Fukushima felt that they were manageable over time. He foresaw a continuation of the current trends - a rise in the manufacturing, chemical, and machinery divisions and a stagnant financial sector.

Mr. Fukushima then switched topics to the political situation in Japan. In the past 10 years, Japan has had eight prime ministers. Since his election, Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi has enjoyed an 80% popularity rating and was recently re-elected as the LDP President with 399, or 60.7% of the House votes. Mr. Fukushima proceeded to explain the five popular views the Japanese have about Koizumi: first, those who oppose Koizumi, which include Shizuka Kamei and other LDP leaders; second, those who oppose Koizumi but need him to remain as Prime Minister for LDP wins; third, those who support his policies because there are no alternatives and see him as "all talk but no action;" fourth, those who support his policies and believe he will be successful in reforms; and fifth, those who favor reform feel that he prolongs the LDP's power and therefore, is an obstacle to party realignment.

The final subject Mr. Fukushima covered was U.S.-Japan relations. He mentioned that initially, during the Bush/Gore presidential election, 70-80% of all Japanese leaders favored President Bush. They were wary of Gore's connections to labor unions and environmentalists and his focus on the relationship with China. Currently, high government officials support the U.S. on terrorism and Iraq. On the public level, the Japanese are critical of U.S. policy, especially unilateralism and Iraq. However, they do not criticize Prime Minsiter Koizumi for supporting Bush. They realize that Japan must support President Bush on Iraq if they hope for his support on North Korea. Ultimately, Mr. Fukushima didn't see a change in the relationship unless a crisis with North Korea ensued.

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15th APPC: An Afternoon Visit Governor Linda Lingle

July 2, 2003 was proclaimed "Japan-America Society of Hawaii" Day by Governor Linda Lingle, in honor of the eight Asian Pacific Children's Convention Junior Ambassadors and two Alternates, who were chosen to represent Hawaii and the United States at the 15th Annual Asian Pacific Children's Convention in Fukuoka, Japan. Although the original July 13-August 1, 2003 convention dates were rescheduled for later next year due to the SARS situation in Asia, Governor Lingle took the opportunity to congratulate the students on their hard work and dedication. The ten participants each received certificates of appreciation, shook hands with the Governor, and posed for a group photo. A very special mahalo nui loa to Governor Lingle for taking time out of her busy schedule for this eventful occasion. And a warm thank you to Nadine Nishioka, the 15th APCC Chaperone for coordinating this visit.

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Contemporary Kaiseki Fundraiser Dinner

L'Uraku Restaurant opened its doors to Society members and guests for a "Contemporary Kaiseki Fundraiser Dinner" on Wednesday, July 30th, featuring Chef Hiroshi Fukui of L'Uraku. With Chef Hiroshi's culinary knowledge and many years of training and experience in the kaiseki-ryori, dinner attendees enjoyed seven specially selected courses and wine to compliment the contemporary flavors of the meal.

The evening began with an explanation on the history of the kaiseki by Ms. Betty Shimabukuro. A graduate of the UH Journalism Program, Ms. Shimabukuro is the food editor for the Honolulu Star Bulletin's "By Request" Column and co-author of the cookbook, Honolulu's Favorite Pineapple Recipes.

A very warm mahalo nui loa goes out to Mr. Joichi Saito who chaired this fundrasier dinner. Also, a special thank you to Chef Hiroshi, Mr. Duane Kawamoto, General Manager of L'Uraku Restaurant, and the staff of the restaurant.

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Humanity Above Nation: Joseph Heco Exhibition

In commemoration of the 150th anniversary of U.S.-Japan relations, the Society co-sponsored an event with JCCH, the Joseph Heco Society of Hawaii, and the Consulate General of Japan on July 15th.

The event kicked off with talks given by Consul General Masatoshi Muto, Joseph Muratsuchi, President of the Joseph Heco Society of Hawaii and the Society's Board of Director and Past Chair Dr. Robert Sakai. It was followed by a viewing of the gallery exhibit, created and developed by the Joseph Heco Society of Hawaii. After viewing the exhibit, guests enjoyed refreshments prepared by JCCH volunteers. The event concluded with a showing of a 30 minute video entitled, 150 years of U.S.-Japan Relations Past, Present and Future, Part 1: Promoting Friendship.

The society will continue to promote the 150th celebration with future events and programs in the upcoming months. For more information, please call the Society or visit the official NAJAS website at http://www.japanus150.org.

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"U.S.-Japan Foreign Policy Post 9-11" & "Japan's Dynamic Market"

On Wednesday, July 23rd, the Society co-sponsored the program, "U.S.-Japan Foreign Policy Post 9-11" & "Japan's Dynamic Market" along with the Honolulu Japanese Chamber of Commerce, the UH-Manoa Department of Economics, EWC, PAAC, and Hawaii Business Magazine. The presentation featured three guest speakers: Dr. Sheila Smith, Research Fellow at the East-West Center and Associate of Reischauer Institute of Japanese Studies at Harvard University; Dennis Teranishi, President & CEO of Hawaiian Host Inc.; and Ryozo Ariyoshi, President of the Nippon Business Center.

Dr. Sheila Smith spoke on "U.S.-Japan Foreign Policy Post 9-11." Dr. Smith focused her lecture on the changes in Japan's foreign policy. Since 9-11, Japan has taken an active role in international politics; encouraging a more open conversation about its military capabilities and defense and recommitting itself to the U.S.-Japan alliance to prevent and suppress future acts of terrorism. Dr. Smith ended with Japan's search for a national identity and a state of "normalcy."

Ryozo Ariyoshi covered two presentations, "New Dynamics" and "Right Presentation." In "New Dynamics," Mr. Ariyoshi spoke on how worldwide trends flourish in Japan. The most important factor is to know the Japanese market, "a powerful trend monster." He pointed out two formulas on successfully importing a trend-to revive a product or to introduce a new idea. Mr. Ariyoshi recalled Mr. Ernest Higa, who brought Dominoes and the "home delivery" concept to Japan in 1985. Since then, Mr. Higa has established a Japan base in Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo with an average of 2.08 billion yen in annual sales. In "Right Presentation," Mr. Ariyoshi discussed the delicate nuances of how Japanese think and the importance of understanding protocol, customs, and etiquette. He mentioned what to do and what not to do in the business world-always use honorific language, limit body movements, and maintain a separation between the customer, client, and co-worker.

Mr. Dennis Teranishi offered insights on creating "value consciousness" in the minds of Japanese customers and recipients and how this value is created and managed. He pointed out that Hawaiian Host Inc. relies on Japan's omiyage system, successfully targeting the Japanese traveler. He explained the different distribution systems used to sell his products-pre-orders made through omiyage catalogs; shopping at Japanese venues, such as airports, train stations and convenience stores where small trial sizes of the product are offered; and international shopping where the cost is 25%-60% less than in Japanese retail stores. Mr. Teranishi then discussed advertising techniques. Hawaiian Host advertises in major publications, like Traveler Magazine,through travel companies, in airports, and on busses in Osaka and Ginza. The company focuses on promoting its recognizable elements--the "classic" label--to reinforce its authenticity. Mr. Teranishi also highlighted the "co-branded" products available, which features the crazy shirts cat, Woody Woodpecker, Ultra-Man on a surfboard, and Lilo & Stitch characters on its packaging.

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"The Outstanding Features of Bizen from Oei to Shin-Shinto"

Dr. Robson began by thanking the Governor of Hawaii and Consul General Muto for writing letters of support for this program. The letters were needed to help "smooth" the way in getting the swords in and out of Japan with the "proper papers." With a mixed audience of sword enthusiasts and lay people who were there to just learn about swords and their relationship to Japanese history and culture, Dr. Robson explained the three essential elements needed by a swordsmith-good iron, good charcoal and good water. All three of these elements were found in Bizen in present day Okayama. The ten swords and knives, all loaned from private collectors in Japan and valued over $600,000, were displayed chronologically, which helped attendees to follow Dr. Robson's lecture as he explained about each swordsmith's work. The first sword was that of Bishu Osafune Hidemitsu in 1378. It had a deep curvature and was the longest sword on display. He then explained swords from the Oei-Bizen or early Muromachi period (1394-1460) when the Ashikaga clan came to power and warriors began wearing two swords. Dr. Robson noted that because of industrialization of the iron mines during this period, the typical characteristics found in the steel of sword-smiths began to gradually disappear. As he discussed each blade, Dr. Robson explained about the fine differences in the work among the swordsmiths-the curvature, the size and length of the blade, the hada, and the hamon. In 1800 a landside in Osafune nearly wiped out all of the swordsmiths. Only two survived to carry on the tradition. The landslide occurred because the hills were cut bare of trees used for charcoal. After the lecture, Dr. Robson gave guidance on handling the swords. He asked each to bow before handling the sword, not to speak while handling the sword so as not to put any spittle or moisture on the blade which would quickly rust, and how to view the sword. This interesting display of Japanese history and art goes on to San Francisco and London. The Society thanks member Mark Robinson for arranging this interesting and educational opportunity for the membership.

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The "Modern Masters of Japanese Arts" Exhibition

From September 5th-13th, the Aloha Tower Marketplace, 2nd floor Mauka Lanai housed various artwork from sumi paintings to colored photography. The exhibition was cosponsored with Four Seasons Fine Arts and showcased two prominent Japanese artist, Koji Mizutani and Hisashi Otsuka, and two guests artists, Waialua-native George Eguchi and husband & wife team Will and Susan Utay.

Modern Masters of Japanese Art featured Koji Mizutani in his first U.S. appearance. Mizutani is a Professor of Graduate Fine Arts and specializes in traditional Japanese painting, known as nihonga, a style indigenous to Japan. During his three-day opening, Gallery Shingendo from Ginza, Tokyo offered free, expert appraisals on antique Japanese cultural artifacts brought in by the public. Art aficionados had the unique opportunity to meet Mizutani, who spent the latter part of the week touring the island for new subject matter.

Following the Mizutani opening, the exhibition continued with Hisashi Otsuka. Born in Tokyo, Otsuka began his career working with Japan's foremost kimono designer, Taeko Jo. He moved to Hawaii in 1979 in order to have the opportunity to freely express himself in his artwork. He is known for his blend of ancient Eastern techniques and modern Western ideas.

Also featured was special guest artist George Eguchi, who made an appearance at the exhibit, and the works of Will and Susan Utay. Mr. Eguchi was born and raised in Waialua and paints Hawaiian landscapes.

Thank you very much to all artists, especially Koji Mizutani. Mizutani donated a large screen painting, entitled "Peaceful Stream" to the Ehime Maru Memorial Foundation. Proceeds raised from the sale of this piece will go towards maintaining the Ehime Maru Memorial at Kakaako Waterfront Park.

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CPASF Updates

The Crown Prince Akihito Scholarship was established to promote understanding and friendly relationships between the peoples of the United States and Japan. To date, the Foundation has awarded 113 scholarships to students from the United States and Japan. The scholarship is open to graduate level students at UH Manoa.

• Application deadline: October 27, 2003
• Mandatory Screening Committee Interviews:
  November 3, 2003 (Bachman Hall #113)
• Final Screening/Personal Interview: December 13, 2003

For applications or information, Please contact Loren at the Society at 524-4450 or at loren@jashawaii.org.

CPASF Donor Recognition, January 2003 - September 15, 2003

The Founders Circle $4,000 - $15,000 annual pledge City Bank Homebuilding Industry Foundation- Mr. & Mrs. Howard Hamamoto

Ambassadors $3,000 annual pledge Sony Hawaii

Diplomats $1,600 - $2,00 annual pledge Glenn & Margaret Oda Foundation Ralph Honda Shiseido of Hawaii

Colleagues $1,000 - $1,500 annual pledge Tokio Marine & Fire Insurance Co. Minoru Ueda Yoshiharu Satoh

Sustaining $600 annual pledge Lilian Miyasaki Siegfried Ramler Fujisankei Communications Intl, Inc. Mitsukoshi U.S.A. Inc.

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Tour of Shangri-La, Estate of Doris Duke

Tomodachi Co-Chair Irene Kaichi coordinated July's tour of Shangri-la. This program proved very successful as it filled up in no time! Society members met at the Honolulu Academy of Arts and were warmly greeted by Ms. Marjorie Midkiff's daughter, Marjorie who works at the Academy of Arts! A short video was shown in the Islamic art room prior to boarding the bus for the estate. A great time was had by all exploring the hidden treasure in Kahala. The estate is still undergoing renovations and new parts of the estate will be open in the future.

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Japanese-style Cooking Demo and Lunch

Itadakimasu! Outgoing Tomodachi Co-Chair Mrs. Irene Kaichi planned a cooking demonstration at KCC with Hyatt Regency Waikiki Executive Sous Chef Ricky Oshima and Musashi Restaurant Executive Chef Minoru Karikomi. This demonstration was a special offer to the Tomodachi group. The menu included fresh opakapaka, laulau style; simmered beef and potato; misoyaki garlic chicken mustard-flavored deep fried tofu and steamed rice, donated by Society Corporate member Akita Komachi.

Hyatt Regency has been a corporate member since August 2001 and has been host to several of our programs; the last being Lord Wedgwood in conjunction with Royal Selection. Akita Komachi, rice distributors have been members since September 1998 and in the past has provided the Society with rice for our golf tournaments. Thank you to our loyal members.

Doomo arigatoo and otsukaresamadeshita to Mrs. Roberta Sullivan and Mrs. Irene Kaichi, outgoing Tomodachi Co-Chairs for their endless efforts and contributions to this committee. Your hard work and dedication is certainly appreciated. A big welcome goes out to Ms. Marjorie Yoshioka and Ms. Sumi Oda, Tomodachi Co-Chairs for the upcoming year.

Simmered Beef & Potato (Niku Jaga)
3C Water
2lbs Potato (baker's) cut into 1 1/2" cubes
4T Sugar
2T Sake
3T Shoyu
1T Hondashi
2T Mirin
5 - 6 oz thinly sliced beef, cut into 1 ½" -2" strips
dash Sesame Seed Oil

1. Cook potato with 3 cups of water until potato is ¾ done
   
2. Add sugar, sake, soy sauce and Hondashi and continue cooking until potato is done
   
3. Add beef and Mirin. Simmer another 5 - 6 minutes
   
4. Add sesame seed oil for flavor

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"What is Buddhist Education?"

Following the Annual General Membership Meeting on Wednesday, September 18th, members were treated to an interesting discussion on "What is Buddhist Education?" The two-person panel featured Society member Dr. George Tanabe, Professor of Religion at UH Manoa and Mr. Pieper Toyama, Principal of the Pacific Buddhist Academy. Dr. Tanabe has been a long-supporter of the Society and is the author of several publications. Mr. Toyama is the former headmaster of Parker School on the Big Island. The session was moderated by member Mr. Larry Smith of Christopher, Smith & Associates.

Mr. Toyama introduced the Pacific Buddhist Academy, the only Buddhist high school in the U.S. He spoke on how the school follows the mission "to prepare students for college, to align their lives with the teachings of Buddhism, and to develop their courage to nurture peace within themselves, their communities, and the world." Mr. Toyama explained that everything taught in the classroom both preps students for college and revolves around the basic fundamentals of Buddhist education-the oneness of all; the awareness of self without selfish desires; inter-connections; and compassion. He cited the Academy's methods to produce students who are aware of and experience the Buddhist way.

Dr. Tanabe explained the historical context of Buddhist education. Traditional Buddhist education strictly adhered to doctrine, rituals, and text and followed a high level of thought, inquiry, and reasoning. It was paramount in promoting the education of man prior to the introduction of formal schools. Secular teaching, on the other hand, adopted the sciences developed by the Buddhist monks who visited China. Dr. Tanabe pointed out that the two types of knowledge had never been integrated. The Academy is the first institution that is attempting to combine both into one system.

The panel session ended with Dr. Tanabe and the audience voicing concerns on whether these students would be able to cope with the real world. Mr. Toyama clarified that the Academy was not trying to create a new product or molding a new person but wanted to develop their students along the models already existing in the community, i.e., those community leaders who possess and display compassion, selflessness, and service to others.

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Lunch with Ambassador Hisahiko Okazaki

On August 28th, members and guests from JASH, EWC, FEWC, and PAAC gathered at the Imin Conference Center to hear Ambassador Hisahiko Okazaki, Former Japan Ambassador to Thailand. He was to speak on "U.S.-Japan Relations in the Past 150 Years and Their Future Perspectives." However, attendees were pleasantly surprised when Ambassador Okazaki changed his topic and instead, spoke on the situations in North Korea and Iraq.

Ambassador Okazaki began by explaining that there are conflicting ideas about whether or not a North Korean nuclear crisis exists. North Korean President Kim Jong IL proclaimed that this was "the most peaceful time in [Asia's] history." Ambassador Okazaki, however, was of the opinion that war with North Korea could be a possibility in two years. He pointed out that in Japan, this was the first time public opinion backed up the government's "be tough" stance on North Korea.

Ambassador Okazaki mentioned that the North Korean issue was closely related to the question on the Middle East and Iraq. Ambassador Okazaki felt that Americans must remain in Iraq in order for peace to succeed there and ultimately, in the Middle East. "It takes time," the Ambassador told his audience.

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Donor Recognition: June 2003 - September 15, 2003

Endowment
Statesman $5,000 - $24,000
First Hawaiian Foundation

Counselor $1,000 - $4,999
Yoshiharu Satoh
Joichi Saito
Colliers Monroe Friedlander
AIG Hawaii Insurance Company Inc
Margaret Oda

Diplomat $250 - $999
Stanford Carr Development
Akemi Kurokawa
Caroline Matano Yang

Colleague $1 - $249
Brenda Lei Foster

Donations
Mahalo nui loa to the following for their donations:

For the printing of the Japan-America Journal
HMSA
Royal Selection

Donations
Makiki Japanese Language School
Itoen (USA) Inc
McInerny Foundation

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Japan in a Suitcase

On Friday, August 22nd, President Okawa and Japanese intern Yumiko Okamoto made the first Japan in a Suitcase presentation for the new school year at Makakilo Elementary School. They were accompanied by interns, Colleen Kohashi and Bryant Tadeo. Japan in a Suitcase teaches Hawaii's youth about the important concept of different perspectives by exposing students to the similarities and differences between themselves and their Japanese counterparts. The suitcase contains items used by Japanese students, either as they go to school or in the classroom. Hawaii's students handle the randoseru or backpack, the indoor shoes, the wash rag used to clean classrooms, the apron and masks used when serving food and other items. Students are encouraged to ask questions about each item in the process of discovery, learning that differences does not mean they are right or wrong but that people have different view of things depending on where they are from. The program encourages our youth to develop an attitude of open-mindedness and is in great demand by our teachers. Last year over 90 presentations were made at schools throughout Oahu reaching nearly 4,000 students. This popular program has been an active part of the Society's school programs for the past six years.

Volunteers Needed. We need volunteers to help with the JIAS presentations. Orientation and training sessions are held to prepare volunteers for the presentations. Additionally, we also need drivers. At times, we have the college student volunteers but they do not have a car. If there are any of you who would like to help by driving our volunteers and/or participating in doing JIAS for students, please call Ms. Okamoto at 524-4450 or email at intern@jashawaii.org. Mahalo for your help!

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Welcome to New Corporate Members

Choi International was founded in 1981 by Patricia Choi. They are a "boutique" Hawaii real estate brokerage company with the exclusive right to sell many of Hawaii's finest residential and commercial properties. The success of Choi International is attributed to its custom-tailored service to meet the needs of individual clients as well as the very talented professional staff with more than 25 years of Hawaii real estate experience. The company believes in keeping abreast of new market developments and servicing clients with integrity, honesty and a commitment to excellence.

Clayton University is an international university for business administration, arts science and applied science. It offers bachelor's, master's, and doctor's degree programs for pro- fessional people. Clayton University was created in 1972 by a group of faculty from the graduate schools of Harvard University, University of Pittsburgh, and Southern Illinois University. The primary purpose of the University is to enable mid-career working people to have access to continued learning and degree programs.

Hawaii Vertical Transportation is a new company, both to the Society as well as to Hawaii. It was established in 2003 under President/CEO Ms. Brenda Low and COO Mr. Mike Tomihara and will soon be moving offices to 2018 Homerule Street. The company specializes in elevator installation, modernization, service, and repair. Services provided include the remodeling of elevator cab interiors and set-up of security systems (swipe cards, cameras, etc.).

Hawaiian Dredging Construction Company is an award winning general contractor that has provided construction services to Hawaii and the Pacific Basin for the past century. The company began operations in 1902 when its founder, Walter F. Dillingham, purchased a dredge and built a small wharf in Honolulu Harbor. Today, as a Kajima USA, Inc. company, they offer design/build contracts, pre-construction services, design assist services and general construction.

Hawaiian & Relocation Inc specializes in residential property management: long-term rentals and unit care of vacant houses and condominiums. The parent company, Relo Holdings, Inc. is a publicly traded company in JASDAQ, providing more than 10,000 property management and employee benefit programs for 700,000 members in Japan.

Hegel University is based in both Sacramento, California and Honolulu, Hawaii and specializes in distance learning. The University aims to form the character of people who can pursue truth under the education idea: "The pursuit of learning is an inquiry into human beings." Hegel University is under the direction of Chief Director & President and Lifetime Member, Masanao Nagai.

Hoike is the Hawaiian word for information. As a Hawaii based Information Technology (IT) Company, it is committed to helping customers grow smart business with the innovative use of IT. Hoike has pooled critical IT resources as an offering to the business community. Products and services include: application service provider (ASP), managed service provider (MSP), internet service provider (ISP), web hosting, portal software, call center, and consulting.

Imanaka Kudo & Fujimoto, LLC, is a Hawaii law firm, which emphasizes complex land use, real estate development and financing, labor and employment law, acquisition, corporate and commercial law. Their work is of the type customarily carried on by large firms engaged in sophisticated commercial law in major metropolitan areas. Federal practice includes such areas as banking, environmental law and interstate land sales regulation. The firm is also engaged in a non-federal practice.

Inariya America Ltd is a Japanese real estate company with its offices at 615 Piikoi Street.

KMH LLP was formed on August 1, 2002 by Randy Karns, Ross Murakami and Peter Hanashiro to assume the ownership of the operations of Arthur Andersen's Honolulu office. The firm offers a wide range of services to individual and business clients including tax compliance & advisory services, KMH assurance & advisory services, internal audit services, and KHM solutions.

Kobayashi Sugita & Goda, established in 1971, specializes in complex litigation and corporate business relations with an emphasis in commercial and construction issues, representation in finance, transactions, banking, general corporate, regulatory, land use, labor management, wrongful termination, immigration, and associated fields. The firm provides critical expertise needed to address legal problems in Hawaii, the Far East and the Pacific Rim, and the continental United States.

Kobayashi Travel Service has its roots going back to 1892 when the first Kobayashi Hotel was established in Chinatown. Today, the Kobayashi Travel Service family of companies has grown to include subsidiaries such as Polynesian Hospitality and The Tour Shop to accommodate visitors to Hawaii and Aloha World, which specializes in escorted tours to Japan and the Mainland.

Masako Formals was established by Mrs. Fumiko Yamamoto and her daughter in 1977. Its purpose was to meet the needs for both local and Japanese customers looking for bridal, formal wear and tuxedos for rental or purchase. Masako Formals continued these services for nearly a decade before they were recognized for their hard work and commitment of striving for excellent customer service. In 1996 Masako Formals was awarded with the "Peoples Choice Award" by the Honolulu Advertiser.

Matzki Inc. first opened in September of 1977. Started by Jack M. Takeda, President of Matzki Inc., with only one employee to help, the store covered 600 square feet and featured a rental stock of mint and yellow tuxedos, with gowns and kimonos from Japan. There was no retail merchandise available and only two dressing rooms to service the customers. Over the 20 years since its inception and 90+ employees later, Matzki Inc. has evolved into a full service tuxedo rental shop, with a full line of both rental and retail goods as well as wedding, photo, videography and makeup services to customers.

Pioneer Pacific Financial Services, Inc is a financial company which specializes in employee benefits, life insurance, and long term care.

Polynesian Broadcasting Inc dba KZOO Radio is the oldest and largest Japanese radio station operating outside of Japan since 1963. First and foremost, KZOO is a Japanese language station providing music, news and information to its listening audience. The Japanese in Hawaii are part of the large Hawaiian multi-cultural community; they participate as American citizens in government and society, but KZOO's programming strives to remind them also of their link to their cultural roots in Japan.

Royal Selection has been owned and operated by Naoto and Yoko Lathrop since the early 1990's and is located directly behind the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Waikiki. The store specializes in selling china and dinnerware, mainly from Europe, to individual customers.

The Atsuhiko & Ina Goodwin Tateuchi Foundation seeks to promote and improve international understanding, knowledge and the equality of relations between Japan and the United States. This will be done through a structured program of contributions and grants for charitable purposes. The foundation is specifically interested in (but is not limited to) programs that stimulate educational opportunities for students involved in contemporary Japanese studies or promote artistic and cultural exchanges between the United States and Japan.

Thomas T. Ueno CPA is a certified public accounting firm established in the 1990's by Thomas T. Ueno. The firm specializes in management consulting for businesses in Hawaii and Japanese companies that conduct business in the islands. They also provide litigation support services for attorneys.

Watanabe Ing Kawashima & Komeiji, established in 1971, had a goal to create a law firm managed and organized differently than the commercial firms of that day. Infused in their new practice were initiative, responsibility and a complete understanding of the environments within which clients must achieve their goals.

[Article Index]

Mahalo to All New Members & Membership Upgrades

New Corporate Members
Hawaii Vertical Transportation - Regular
Mr. Michael Tomihara
Ms. Brenda Low

Kobayashi Sugita & Goda - Regular
Mr. Alan M. Goda
Mr. William S. Bailey

Kobayashi Travel Service - Supporting

Polynesian Hospitality - Supporting

Corporate Member Upgrades
Choi International - Supporting
Sachiyo Braden Realtor - Supporting

New General Members
Ms. Alana A. Yoshiko Anderson - Individual
Ms. Roberta A. Arakawa - Student
Mr. Jay N. Asato - Individual
Mr. & Mrs. Joseph E. Hale - Family
Mr. Riley Jaschke - Individual
Mr. & Mrs. George Lobley Jr. - Family
Ms. Sharon Ito Matsuo - Family
Ms. Anne M. Nishizawa - Individual
Mrs. Sachiko Oishi - Individual
Ms. Yumiko Okamoto - Individual
Mr. Ron Quizon - Individual
Dr. John C. Roberts - Individual
Ms. Junko Sekiya - Individual
Dr. & Mrs. George J. Tanabe Jr. - Family

General Member Upgrades
Dr. & Mrs. James E. Auer - Family
Mr. & Mrs. Clayton J. Fujie - Family
Mr. & Mrs. Jungi Kamada - Sustaining
Ms. Janise Y. Kinoshita - Individual

[Article Index]