Tomodachi Holiday Tea
On Wednesday, December 6, 2023 the Japan-America Society of Hawaii (JASH) members gathered for the annual Tomodachi Holiday Tea at the Waioli Kitchen & Bake Shop nestled in Manoa Valley. Almost 20 members and newcomers to JASH reconnected and enjoyed each other’s company, while partaking delicious baked goods and beverages. After lunch, guests sang Christmas carols together and were led by Tomodachi Committee Chair, Kazuko Love and JASH member Atsushi Takebayashi. Mr. Takebayashi led the group in a warm up session with the famous song Ue O Muite Arukou or better known as Sukiyaki in English and taught the group sign language to accompany the song.
The program ended with lucky draw prize giveaways. JASH president Reyna Kaneko thanked guests for attending and spoke about JASH accomplishments in 2023 including the inaugural Sister State and Sister City Summit in July which brought 22 governors, vice governors and mayors from Japan.
Thank you to Tomodachi Chair Kazuko Love and JASH member Atsushi Takebayashi for helping plan and organize the program! Mahalo to JASH lifetime member Sandy Takeda for attending and donating two Kokedamas for our lucky draw!
