JASI 2015 Annual Gala Review
Thursday, June 4, 2015


Featuring Keynote Speaker

Mr. Mitoji Yabunaka


and a performance by

Stringraphy

"Really fantastic! . . .  The program was excellent . . . Amazing entertainment! . . . A truly wonderful evening and a tribute to Indiana's great relationship with Japan."  These are among the many comments expressed about the 2015 JASI Gala featuring Keynote Speaker Mitoji Yabunaka and entertainment by the Stringraphy ensemble, with support from Title Sponsor Hoosier Energy.   Held at the historic Indiana Roof Ballroom, the Gala drew a crowd of over 500 guests from across Indiana and the Midwest, and was highlighted by many standing ovations throughout the evening.
 
The dinner program began with a Kampai Toast by The Honorable Toshiyuki Iwado, Consul-General of Japan in Chicago, who celebrated the strength and vibrancy of Japan in Indiana.

Melanie Hart, President of the Japan-America Society of Indiana and President of Tsuchiya Group North America, introduced Khaalidah Giddens, a recent Herron High School graduate, who gave thanks to JASI in Japanese after her recent trip to California where she placed 3rd in a national Japanese language speech competition. 

The Honorable Sue Ellsperman, Lieutenant Governor of the State of Indiana, gave remarks on the importance of the Japan/Indiana relationship and the State’s commitment to its Japanese partners and friends. 

Honorary Consul of Japan Pawel Fludzinski presented JASI’s “Bridge of Friendship Award” for distinguished leadership and service to Tom Easterday, Executive Vice President, Secretary and Chief Legal Officer of Subaru of Indiana Automotive, Inc.   

JASI was honored to welcome Mitoji Yabunaka, former Vice-Minister of Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in his first trip back to Indiana since serving as Consul-General of Japan in Chicago from 1998 - 2002. Mr. Yabunaka gave the Keynote Address, including an insightful and forthright look into Japan's current relationships with other countries around the world, reaffirming Prime Minister Abe’s statement that “Japan is Back”.  He provided data showing Asian perception of Japan as one of the most reliable countries in the Pacific, and stressed the importance of “smart diplomacy” and peaceful cooperation among all countries. 

Theresa Kulczak, JASI Executive Director, introduced the entertainment and welcomed the musical group Stringraphy in its debut performance in the United States.  An installation of silk strings and paper cups, the Stringraphy instrument is capable of producing an incredible range of beautiful tones and musical genres.  The range was showcased by the group's performances of a “Eine Kleine Knachtmusik” (Mozart), the traditional Japanese folk song “Sadaokesa”, an original composition by Kazu Mizushima, “A Memory of a Forest,” and finally, a wonderful, one-of-a-kind rendition of “Back Home Again in Indiana”. 

The 2015 JASI Gala truly was an evening to remember and we are extremely thankful to Title Sponsor Hoosier Energy, and many corporate sponsors, and to the guests and volunteers who made it such a special evening. 

Attendees enjoyed networking during the Patrons' Reception and the General Reception before the
start of the dinner and program.

The Honorable Toshiyuki Iwado, Consul-General of Japan in Chicago, gave the welcoming Kampai toast followed by JASI President Melanie Hart introducing Khaalidah Giddens, a recent Herron High School graduate, who gave thanks to JASI in Japanese after her recent trip to California where she placed 3rd in a national Japanese language speech competition. 

The Honorable Sue Ellsperman, Lieutenant Governor of the State of Indiana had many positive things to say about the Japan/Indiana Relationship.

Tom Easterday, Executive Vice President, Secretary and Chief Legal Officer of Subaru of Indiana Automotive was awarded the JASI "Bridge of Friendship Award."


 

 

JASI was honored to welcome Mr. Mitoji Yabunaka, former Vice-Minister of Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs as the keynote speaker.


 

Mr. Yabunaka was afterwards presented with a gift by JASI President Melanie Hart and Honorary Consul of Japan in Indianapolis, Pawel Fludzinski.

The evening concluded with a one-of-a-kind performance by Japanese ensemble Stringraphy.

Thank you again to all of the guests and sponsors!  We look forward to seeing you next year!

Click here to view the complete photo gallery.

All photographs by Zach Dobson.
http://www.zachdobson.com/

Program Details