Annual Dinner & Silent Auction Honoring Ms. Carole Hayashino & JCCH

Over 450 members and supporters were in attendance for the Japan-America Society of Hawaii's Annual Dinner & Silent Auction, held October 23rd at Sheraton Waikiki Hawaii Ballroom with "Honoring the Gannenmono" as this year's theme. This event culminated the yearlong celebration of the 150th Anniversary of the arrival of the first group of Japanese immigrants to Hawaii.

Each year, JASH honors an individual, company or organization with the Bridge Award for promoting understanding and friendship between Hawaii and Japan. This year, JASH honored Ms. Carole Hayashino and the Japanese Cultural Center of Hawai'i; and Dr. Dennis Ogawa for being instrumental in coordinating the celebration of the Gannenmono Symposium.

A highlight of the evening was a video showcasing JASH's Educational Programs: Japan-in-a-Suitcase; Asian-Pacific Children's Convention; Japan Day, and Japan Wizards Competition. There wasn't a dry eye in the house after a few dozen student-participants from this year's programs took the stage right after the video.

Ms. Barbara Tanabe, President of Hoakea Communications and member of the JASH Board of Directors, served as our emcee. During the dinner program, guests enjoyed musical arrangements performed by Mrs. Momoko Maniscalco and her talented students.

JASH extends sincere appreciation to Event Sponsor, First Insurance Company of Hawaii, Ltd., as well as to the contributions from our Platinum, Gold, Silver, Student Table sponsors, dinner patrons, and our silent auction donors.

Photos from the event courtesy of Mr. Tony Grillo, Artistic Mindz Photography, and JASH volunteer Mr. Ray Tabata.