Happy New Year from JASA! | |
旧年中は格別のお引き立てを賜り、心より感謝申し上げます。
2025年も、皆様と共に日本とアラバマ州の架け橋となるような活動を進めてまいります。新しい年が、皆様にとって健康で幸多き一年となりますよう、心よりお祈り申し上げます。
Thank you very much for your continued support throughout the past year.
In 2025, we look forward to further strengthening the bond between Japan and Alabama, and working together with all of you. Wishing you a new year filled with good health, happiness, and success!
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Message from the JASA President | |
In 2024, JASA was intentional about providing relevant content to its stakeholders.
- The year began with the Cherry Blossom Festival which saw record attendance of 7,000 attendees at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Throughout Alabama, attendees to Japanese spring festivals reached 30,000 people. Additionally, more than 50,000 people attended Japan-focused events in the first 10 months of 2024.
- The Satsuma Pottery Collection, donated to JASA by the John Daane Family, much of it over 100 years old and can trace its origins back to the 1600’s in the Satsuma Province in southern Kyushu, Japan, was loaned to the University of North Alabama for research, education, and display at the Tennessee Valley Art Museum (scheduled for Spring 2025).
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Four committees were established (Corporate, Culture, Education, and Governmental Affairs) to help JASA assess opportunities and provide guidance on resource allocation and prioritization. Thirty-three JASA members serve on these committees. The Committees can be found at https://japanalabama.com/Committees.
- The Alabama House of Representatives unanimously passed HB143 which established the Alabama Japan Legislative Exchange Group (AJLEG) to pursue friendship and cooperation between the members of the House of Representatives and the people, government, and businesses of Japan. One-third of the House has signed up for AJLEG, and the Alabama Senate is expected to pass its version of the bill in the 2025 session.
- JASA reduced office expenses by 6% of the total budget, increased membership by 6% of the total budget, and received a grant representing 5% of the total budget, resulting in a 17% positive impact to JASA finances.
- In November, JASA’s 35th Anniversary Annual Dinner, featuring a speaker from the U.S. Department of State, saw record attendance of 257.
- The following day, the Business Forum had a record attendance of 66, for which JASA received its first grant from the National Association of Japan America Societies / Keidanren USA.
The 2025 Strategic Plan, which can be found at https://japanalabama.com/Strategic-Plan-2025, was crafted with membership input through the Committees to sustain the momentum from 2024.
- In January, JASA will launch the virtual JASA Speaker Series to be conducted quarterly with speakers on relevant topics based on membership preferences.
- To bolster membership throughout North Alabama, where over half of the Japanese companies are located, a networking/recruiting event will be held.
- In conjunction with the AJLEG, a Japan Day is being scheduled for the spring for the Alabama House and Senate, along with a reception event, to increase awareness of the importance of the Alabama/Japan relationship in business, culture, and education.
- A succession plan is being developed/implemented to address JASA staffing needs related to the departure of Rio Nunley, JASA Assistant Director, who will be returning to Japan in the spring, to ensure a seamless transition for JASA membership. A steering committee has been appointed.
2024 was a banner year for JASA. With your continued engagement and support, 2025 will be even better.
It is an honor to work with you to further the Japan-Alabama relationship efforts.
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SAMURAI: Sunrise, Sunset Exhibit at History Museum of Mobile | |
September 27, 2024 - January 12, 2025
111 South Royal St | Mobile, AL 36602
The History Museum of Mobile presents "SAMURAI: Sunrise, Sunset", an exhibition showcasing 100 historic artifacts from Japan’s samurai era, on display until January 12, 2025. Featuring full samurai armor, helmets by renowned maker Ryoei, swords, and decorative objects, this exhibition explores the samurai class and the Bushido code. Special programs will offer additional insight into samurai history, art, and traditions for all ages.
Ms. Yuko Jordan, a JASA Board Member and member of the JASA Culture Committee, shares, "SAMURAI: Sunrise, Sunset at The History Museum of Mobile has been attracting record numbers of visitors since its opening. If you enjoyed the Japan-set historical series Shogun, which won a record number of awards at the 76th Emmy Awards this year, you’ll definitely appreciate this exhibit. The amazing collections are thoughtfully described and beautifully displayed. The quality and selection of items on display are rare, even in Japan. This international traveling exhibit will move to Seattle after its run in Mobile, making it a unique opportunity for those living in Alabama and the South."
For more information, check the website.
Below are some photos from the exhibit, provided by Ms. Jordan:
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Save the Date! Cherry Blossom Festival 桜祭り
We’re thrilled to announce that our Annual Cherry Blossom Festival will take place at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens on Saturday, March 29, 2025, from 10 AM to 4 PM! Enjoy a variety of performances, delicious food, and immersive Japanese cultural activities to enhance your Hanami (flower viewing) experience. Stay tuned for more exciting details coming soon!
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NEW! JASA友好会 / Friendship Meeting in Huntsville
Friday, January 31
5:30 - 7:00 p.m.
Miso Happy: 104 Intercom Dr, Madison, AL 35758
今月からハンツビル地域で「JASA友好会」を開催します!JASAの会員も、そうでない方も大歓迎です。美味しい日本料理を楽しみながら、新しいお友達を作りましょう。参加費は無料ですが、お食事後は各自のお会計をお願いいたします。参加をご希望の方は、下記リンクからRSVPをお願いいたします。
Join us for the first "JASA Friendship Meeting"! Whether you’re a JASA member or a non-member, we invite you to join us for this fun meetup. This is a great opportunity to enjoy delicious Japanese cuisine, meet new people, and connect with fellow community members. While there’s no cost to attend, please note that each participant will be responsible for their own bill after the meal. RSVP in advance to secure your spot!
RSVP HERE!
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January Kayoubikai + Shinnenkai (新年会)
Tuesday, January 14
6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Kyuramen: 950 Inverness Cors, Birmingham, AL 35242
新年初の火曜日会を、新しくオープンした人気ラーメン屋さんで開催します。ぜひご参加ください!
As we welcome the new year, we invite you to join us for our Kayoubikai + Shinnenkai (新年会), a Japanese New Year gathering. It’s the perfect opportunity to celebrate the start of 2025, connect with friends, and set a positive tone for the year ahead. Please RSVP at least one day in advance to secure your spot.
RSVP HERE!
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January Language Club Meetup
Thursday, January 23
6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Location TBD
Join us once a month at 6:30 PM to study Japanese! Our self-study club uses Genki as our main resource, and members of all proficiency levels are welcome! Review the grammar section at home, and come prepared for workbook exercises and conversational practice during our sessions.
英会話を練習したい方、新しいお友達を作りたい方、メンバーの日本語勉強を手伝ってくれる方も募集しています。ぜひお気軽にご参加ください!
Join our Facebook Group to RSVP!
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BECOME A JASA MEMBER!
Our members enjoy basic benefits as well as special support from JASA for welcoming Japanese guests, coordinating events, and more. Whether you are Japanese or American, represent a group related to Japanese business and culture, or just have an interest in Japanese culture, we welcome all members.
If you are interested in our membership program or would like more information, please contact us at officemanager@jasaweb.org or visit our website.
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Culture/Education Opportunities and News | |
Beginner Sushi Class
Tuesday, January 14
6:30 - 8:30 p.m. (CST)
2721 5th Ave S, Birmingham, AL 35233
Join the Birmingham Sushi Class at TrimTab Brewing Company for a fun and interactive beginner sushi-making experience! Learn the art of rolling sushi in Birmingham, or catch one of the January classes in Hoover, Trussville, or Huntsville if Birmingham doesn’t fit your schedule. Perfect for food enthusiasts and first-timers alike!
Register Here
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North Shelby Library Teen Manga Club
Wednesday, January 15
4:00 - 5:00 p.m. (CST)
5521 Cahaba Valley Rd | Birmingham, AL 35242
Registration for this exciting Manga-themed event will be open from January 1, 2025, at 4:00 PM to January 15, 2025, at 4:00 PM and is available for students in grades 6–12. Participants can enjoy snacks, share manga suggestions, and discuss favorite reads with fellow fans. Please note that food will be served, and attendees with allergies are encouraged to inspect packaging and take necessary precautions.
Visit their website for more information and to register.
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Business Opportunities and News | |
無料アメリカ駐在準備セミナー
1月16日(木)
中部時間午後9時〜
オンライン
Nihongo-de-USA. は北米に来られる駐在員さんに賃貸物件をご提供しています。これまでの 13 年で培ってきた経験をもとに、ひとりでも多くの駐在員さんに渡米前の不安を解消していただき渡米後はスムーズに生活を始められるよう「アメリカ駐在準備セミナー」を開催しています。駐在経験のあるスタッフが、実体験をもとにお家や学校の選び方をお話します。駐在駐員さんのサポートをされている日系企業の HR の方もどうぞご参加ください!
お申し込みはこちらから
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Nissan and Honda announce merger plans to create world’s no. 3 automaker
Honda and Nissan have agreed to discuss a potential merger, which would create the world’s third-largest automaker, behind Toyota and Volkswagen. Mitsubishi will also join the talks. The merger aims to help the companies compete with Chinese automakers and the shift to electric vehicles. However, past mergers in the industry have faced challenges, and Nissan is currently struggling with financial issues. Analysts predict more industry consolidation may follow.
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President Joe Biden has blocked a $14.3 billion acquisition of US Steel by Japan’s Nippon Steel, citing national security concerns and the need to maintain a strong, domestically owned steel industry. The decision, opposed by US Steel and Nippon Steel, has sparked political debate, with critics warning it could harm US Steel’s future and deter foreign investment. The United Steelworkers union supported the block, while US Steel argued the deal was necessary to secure vital investment.
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Nippon Steel and U.S. Steel sued the U.S. government on Monday after President Biden blocked their $14.9 billion merger over national security concerns. The companies are challenging the decision in court, claiming they were denied due process and that the block was politically motivated. They seek a new review of the deal by the Committee on Foreign Investment in the U.S. (CFIUS).
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Mobile breaks ground: $1.7 million in work will improve park, extend greenway
Mobile officials broke ground on the next phase of the Three Mile Creek Greenway Trail, a pedestrian and cycling route connecting downtown to Langan Municipal Park. The new segment, about three-quarters of a mile long, extends from the Mobile Japanese Garden and is part of a $1.7 million project that also includes parking lot improvements.
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The Nikkei ended 2024 with a 19% annual gain, despite a 0.96% drop on the final day, closing at 39,894.54. This surge was driven by strong corporate earnings and a weak yen. The yen remained weak against the U.S. dollar, with the exchange rate around 157.88 yen. Despite volatility, including a sharp yen strengthening in July, the Nikkei regained momentum later in the year, supported by positive developments like Honda-Nissan merger talks.
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The "specified skilled worker" visa in Japan, introduced to address labor shortages, has seen a significant rise in applicants. Unlike the technical intern program, it offers better working conditions, such as longer overtime and job mobility. The visa is available in 16 industries, including nursing and food production. However, challenges remain, such as restrictions on job-switching, which can lead to illegal part-time work.
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‘What Is That Thing?’ Tiny Trucks Are Causing Big Fights.
Kei trucks, compact Japanese pickups, are growing in popularity in the U.S. for their practicality and affordability. However, many states are banning them due to safety concerns. Despite this, fans argue they're more useful than larger trucks, and social media has boosted their appeal. Some states have reversed bans, while others continue to restrict them.
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Japan-America Society of Alabama
Post Office Box 43114
Vestavia, AL 35243
(205) 703-0960
www.japanalabama.com
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