5/22/2014 JASI Annual Gala

JASI 2014 Annual Gala Report
Thursday, May 22, 2014


Featuring Keynote Speakers

His Exellency Kenichiro Sasae

& Governor Mike Pence


and a performance by

Cathy Morris

JASI was deeply honored to welcome Japan's Ambassador to the United States, His Excellency Kenichiro Sasae, and Indiana Governor Mike Pence, to the JASI Gala on Thursday, May 22, at the Indiana Roof Ballroom. In his Keynote Address, Ambassador Sasae gave a first-hand report of the successful meeting between U.S. President Obama and Japan's Prime Minister Abe in Tokyo, including commentary on issues in East Asia and reaffirming the paramount importance of the U.S.-Japan alliance. The Welcome Toast was given by Indiana House of Representatives Speaker of the House Brian Bosma. The dinner also provided the occasion for the official introduction of Toshikazu "Tony" Suzuki, the new Director of the State of Indiana's Japan Office. Governor Pence announced the award of the "Honorary Hoosier" to Yasuhiko Kano, who is retiring from the position. The evening concluded with a performance of electric violin by popular entertainer Cathy Morris.  

Earlier in the day, Ambassador Sasae visited the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and experienced a high speed ride in a two-seated race car at 180 mph driven by racing legend Mario Andretti. The Gala attendees enjoyed hearing about Ambassador's Sasae's excitingride and seeing the photos. Governor Pence presented Ambassador Sasae with a custom-designed helmet featuring the flags of Indiana, Japan, the U.S. and the logo of the Japan-America Society of Indiana.  

With the participation of over 500 guests from throughout state and the Midwest region, the JASI Gala 2014 was a success by all measures. JASI expresses its appreciation to Title Sponsor Barnes & Thornburg and the many Corporate Sponsors. JASI would also like to thank the Embassy of Japan and the Consulate General of Japan at Chicago for making possible Ambassador Sasae's visit to Indianapolis. We hope that all who attended had a great evening!

And visit the Japan Embassy's twitter page for more photos and to see what others had to say about the #JasiGala.

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

Republican Speaker of the House Brian Bosma gave the welcoming toast followed by JASI
President Tom Easterday, the Master of Ceremonies for the evening, who introduced the Governor
of Indiana, Mike Pence. Governor Pence had a lot of wonderful things to say about the strong bond
between Indiana and Japan.

Governor Pence concluded his address by welcoming Toshikazu "Tony" Suzuki as the New DIrector for the State of Indiana, Tokyo Office.


 
 

JASI was honored to welcome Ambassador of Japan to the United States Kenichiro Sasae as the
keynote speaker.  In his optimistic speech, Ambassador Sasae reaffirmed Indiana’s strong commitment
to its friendship with Japan.


 

Ambassador Sasae was afterwards presented with the gift of the racing helmet he wore earlier in the day
when he took a two seat ride around the Indian apolis Motor Speedway with famed driver Mario Andretti

The evening concluded with an energetic performance by electric violinist Cathy Morris and her band.

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



 
 

Program Details