A new chapter of the Japan-America Society is being launched in Austin. The increasing number of Japanese restaurants in the Greater Austin area and the growing local popularity of made-in-Japan animated films, video games, and comics are just some of the signs which seem to indicate a genuine interest in Japanese culture. At the same time, more and more students and professionals from Japan are moving to Austin for extended periods of study and work. To these naturally inquisitive, like-minded groups of Japanese interested in the United States and Texans interested in Japan, the Board would like to say, "Welcome to the dynamic community that is the Japan-America Society of Greater Austin (JASGA)."

There is genuine excitement and anticipation as we begin a year of cultural and educational programs. Through your involvement and participation, it is the Board's hope that many new international friendships will be made and many new insights gained as we celebrate our commonalities and explore our differences.

The Board of Directors, a group of incredible Committee Chairs and other dedicated volunteers have worked for many months to build an organization that provides worth and value to you, its members. JASGA membership is open to all interested in learning more about Japan, the United States, and the U.S.-Japan relationship. We hope that you will join us and become actively involved in building new bridges of understanding, friendship, and cooperation.

Together, we will shape this newly forming community of cultural exchange.

We hope you enjoy the premiere edition of the Japan-America Society of Greater Austin e-newsletter. Our first issue briefly introduces you to our group and alerts you to upcoming events.

If you're interested in joining JASGA, please visit our website to learn about the benefits of membership and download an application form. You may also call us at 512-312-2033.

The Japan-America Society of Greater Austin, Inc. hosted the 16th Annual Japanese Language Speech Contest Saturday, January 22nd, 2005, in cooperation with the Consulate-General of Japan, Houston, and the other Japan-America Societies of Texas. The President of JASGA, Mr. Stephen Portnoy and the Deputy Consul-General of Japan at Houston, Mr. Kunio Nakamura expressed a warm welcome to the participants at the opening ceremony. A total of forty-five contestants presented insightful and creative speeches. Listed below are the names of top three winners of each division. After the competition and awards ceremony, there was a dinner reception to congratulate the contestants, their families, and teachers. This speech contest was made possible with the support of The Center for East Asia Studies of UT Austin, Continental Airlines, Inc., The Japan Foundation, Momoko, Inc., and Seiko Instruments USA, Inc.