CJS Receives Commendation from Consul-General of Japan in Toronto

On March 9, 2012, the board of directors of the Canada-Japan Society (CJS), together with directors and key members of the Japanese Visitors' Association (JAVA) and the JET Alumni Association (JETAA), were invited to the official residence of Mr. Eiji Yamamoto, Consul-General of Japan to Toronto, for a special reception and commendation. As volunteer organizations with strong connections to Japan, each with a long history in Toronto, CJS, JAVA and JETAA were honoured for our various efforts in promoting understanding and friendship between Canada and Japan. Each group received a Certificate of Commendation from Mr. Eiji Yamamoto and heartfelt speeches were made by the Consul-General and representatives of each group. This special occasion was also an opportunity to gather with members of the Japanese and Canadian communities to reflect on the terrible tragedy of the Great East Japan Earthquake of last year, and renew our commitments to providing assistance and support as Japan strives to recover. We at CJS are deeply honoured by this recognition, and we are extremely grateful to Mr. Eiji Yamamoto and staff at the Consulate General for extending the invitation and for the wonderful hospitality showed to us on that evening.

(In the photo, from left to right, are Stephen Hodder, CJS Director; Ken Bole, CJS President (holding the Certificate of Commendation); Mr. Eiji Yamamoto, Consul-General of Japan to Toronto; Jeff Harju, CJS Vice-President; Don Waters, CJS Treasurer; and Lisa Houston, CJS Communications Director.)