The mission of the Heart of America Japan-America Society is to further understanding between the peoples of Japan and the Greater Kansas City area by promoting social, cultural and educational exchanges
THIS WEEK – FILMS TO COMMEMORATE 2011 EARTHQUAKE
Greater Kansas City Japanese Film Festival - Saturday, March 10 (10:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.) and Sunday, March 11 (10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.) at the Kansas City Art Institute and Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. A number of films will be shown, including Norwegian Wood and The Tsunami and the Cherry Blossom (nominated for a 2011 Academy Award). Contributions accepted in lieu of admission. More information at www.heartlandjetaa.org/wp-content/japanfilmfest/
Pray for Japan - This feature-length documentary will be shown in cinemas across the U.S. Wednesday, March 14. The film takes place in the devastated area around Ishinomaki, Miyagi—the largest coastal city in Tohoku with a population of over 160,000 people. Filmmaker Stu Levy, an American living in Japan, filmed the tsunami aftermath during his trips to Tohoku as a volunteer and captured more than 50 hours of footage over a period of 6 weeks. Kansas City was one of two Midwest cities selected to show the film. AMC Mainstreet 6, 1400 Main St., KCMO. Advance tickets available through fandango.com. For more information, call 1-888-AMC-4FUN or go to prayforjapan-film.org/
INTERESTED IN BEING PART OF A DELEGATION TO KURASHIKI, JAPAN THIS FALL?
The Heart of America Japan-America Society will sponsor a package tour to Kurashiki, Japan to participate in the 40th anniversary celebration of our Sister City relationship.
We’d like to get an estimate of how many people would like to take advantage of this great opportunity. The itinerary is very flexible. Our travel agency will work with you on accommodations, tour guides, and transportation. Click here for more details.
UPCOMING EVENTS – YOU’RE INVITED!
Tuesday, March 27, 7:00 p.m. in the Loose Park Garden Center, 5200 Wornall, KCMO – Sue Looney, Sogetsu School of Ikebana instructor, will provide an ikebana demonstration. Sue, a favorite among JAS members, has shared her expertise with us at previous meetings and festivals.
Saturday, April 14, 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Hanami Picnic (Cherry Blossom Viewing) at Loose Park. Note: We’ll meet on the lawn at the southwest corner of the park near the big cannon. Bring a picnic blanket and lunch (including something to share, if you’d like).
Tuesday, April 24, 7:00 p.m. in the Loose Park Garden Center, 5200 Wornall, KCMO – Hear Ms. Taeko Fukuchi discuss her recent travels to the Fukushima area, the events at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant, the impact on area residents, and relief efforts.
Over $75,000 Raised to Support Japanese Disaster Relief!
Thank you to all those who have made a difference in helping to support those in need! While HAJAS is not currently accepting donations directly, you can still send contributions through the American Red Cross, Heart to Heart, or similar organizations. More information is also available on the Consulate General of Japan at Chicago website.