Category: Others

Program: National Cherry Blossom Festival Opens Registration For 2023 Petal Porches  

Posted on | by Kristin Baasansukh

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  

Media Contact: 

Kaylynn Yankovich 

National Cherry Blossom Festival 

ncbf@merakicommsgroup.com 

910.409.8882 

 

National Cherry Blossom Festival Opens Registration For 2023 Petal Porches  

In partnership with Amazon, the Festival invites the entire region to celebrate springtime by decorating their homes.   

  

Washington, D.C. [February 2, 2023] — The National Cherry Blossom Festival is inviting residents of Washington, D.C. and surrounding communities in Maryland and Virginia to decorate their porches, yards, and windows in all things pink and blossoms to celebrate the return of spring and the 2023 National Cherry Blossom Festival, being held March 20-April 16. Registration for Petal Porches, presented by Amazon, is open now, and the first 300 participants to sign up will receive a free Official National Cherry Blossom Festival yard sign.  

“The Festival hopes communities across the D.C. area will join us in celebrating spring by bringing the spirit of the season to their front doors through Petal Porches,” Diana Mayhew, president and CEO of National Cherry Blossom Festival. “We can’t wait to see all the festive creativity and community spirit shared by friends and family – and, of course, the neighborly competition for some great prizes and bragging rights.” 

Back by popular demand for a third year, the Petal Porches program offers a friendly  competition with online voting and prizes for the winners. Competition categories include:   

  • Best Blossom Block: Awarded to the best decorated block of porches. Festival staff will judge based on a block’s participation and overall theme. The winner will receive a neighborhood party on Sunday, March 26!   
  • Prime Petal Porches: Awarded to the best decorated porch. Festival staff will select the top three porches per D.C. ward, Maryland, and Virginia, and then guest judges will tour and select one winner in each area. Winners will receive a custom watercolor rendering of their Petal Porches submission photo to remember their winning design for years to come!   
  • The People’s Petal Porch: Awarded to the most popular porch. The eight D.C. ward porches, chosen from Prime Petal Porches, will compete for the most votes in a competition-style bracket on the Festival Instagram account (@CherryBlossFest). Virginia and Maryland will also go head-to-head in a daily bonus round. Winners from each area get special prizes!  

“Amazon is thrilled to partner again with the National Cherry Blossom Festival to bring the joy of the cherry blossoms to the region, including neighboring areas right here near Amazon’s National Landing home here in Virginia,” said Patrick Phillippi, senior manager of community engagement for Amazon. “We invite residents to join us as we bloom with community pride this Festival season.” 

The Festival encourages participants to share their creations through their Facebook, Instagram, and other social media platforms using the hashtags #PetalPorches and #SpringItOn. 

D.C. area residents and visitors are encouraged to visit the Festival website for a map of Petal Porch locations and tag the Festival in photos on social media as they explore the regionwide celebration that begins on March 20.  

Get the latest news by signing up for e-mail updates on the Festival website.   

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About the National Cherry Blossom Festival  

The National Cherry Blossom Festival is one of the world’s great celebrations of spring. The 2023 Festival, March 20-April 16, will include four weeks of events featuring diverse and creative programming promoting traditional and contemporary arts and culture, natural beauty, and community spirit. Leadership Circle Sponsors for the 2023 National Cherry Blossom Festival are Events DC and Amazon. Add the 2023 Festival dates and signature event dates to your calendar, and visit NationalCherryBlossomFestival.org or email tickets@ncbfdc.org for more information. Get the latest updates via email, and be sure to follow the Festival on Facebook (@CherryBlossomFestival), Instagram (@CherryBlossFest), Twitter (@CherryBlossFest) and YouTube (@CherryBlossFest).  

Program: National Cherry Blossom Festival Offers Something ‘Fun-ducational’ for Kids of All Ages  

Posted on | by Kristin Baasansukh

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

Media Contact: 

Kaylynn Yankovich 

National Cherry Blossom Festival 

ncbf@merakicommsgroup.com 

910.409.8882 

 

National Cherry Blossom Festival Offers Something ‘Fun-ducational’ for Kids of All Ages   

Youth Get Involved in 2023 Festival Through Blossom Kids, Bloomin’ Junior Ranger Program, The Gift of Trees Patch Program, and Student Art Showcase 

  

Washington, D.C. [March 1, 2023] — The National Cherry Blossom Festival today announced that kids of all ages can “Spring It On” with the 2023 National Cherry Blossom Festival through diverse programming geared toward education and fun around the cherry blossoms. Developed in partnership with the National Park Service, DC Arts & Humanities Collaborative, and Girl Scouts of Nation’s Capital, the various youth education programs allow youth to engage with the 2023 Festival from anywhere. Most activities, programs, and events planned for the 2023 Festival are family-friendly, including the National Cherry Blossom Parade®, Petalpalooza ®, Art in Bloom, Blossom Kite Festival and Petal Porches.  

“Kids will have plenty of opportunities to get involved with the National Cherry Blossom Festival,” said Diana Mayhew, president and CEO of National Cherry Blossom Festival. “This year’s free and fun youth learning activities and learning programs will fully immerse young people in the history of the beloved celebration of spring and its connection to the local community, environmental stewardship, and Japanese culture.” 

Blossom Kids is a free, interactive online experience for all ages – full of “fun-ducational” games, activities, and videos kids can access from anywhere. The experience includes content from the National Children’s Museum and helps kids explore the Festival’s history and learn about Washington, D.C., while earning virtual achievement badges for completing lessons in categories like Arts & Crafts, Words & Numbers, Gift of Trees, Music & Performance and Sports & Fitness. For more information about Blossom Kids, please visit https://bit.ly/2022BlossomKids. 

The Bloomin’ Junior Ranger Program (in partnership with the National Park Service) will allow kids to learn all about the cherry trees, participate in at-home activities and learn how they can help protect the blooms. Kids who complete the program earn virtual Junior Ranger badges. Games, trivia, and a special virtual cherry blossom stamp for the Passport to Your National Parks are also featured on the site. Join in the fun at https://www.nps.gov/cherry.  

The Gift of Trees Patch Program, developed in partnership with Girl Scouts of Nation’s Capital, commemorates the gift of the cherry trees and the enduring friendship between the United States and Japan. Girl Scout troop leaders and members who are interested in continuing the tradition and earning the patch can find more details www.atgscnc.org.

The National Cherry Blossom Festival Student Art Showcase, supported by Corner Water, is now accepting artwork submissions from K-12 students in Washington, D.C. This year’s theme is “I Am In Full Bloom.” The Student Art Showcase Virtual Gallery will open on March 28 and feature a People’s Choice digital vote. Select submissions will be on display at Petalpalooza on April 8, and featured on water bottles provided by Corner Water. All entries must be submitted by March 15. To register and complete the release forms, visit https://nationalcherryblossomfestival.org/student-art-showcase/. 

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About the National Cherry Blossom Festival 

The National Cherry Blossom Festival is one of the world’s great celebrations of spring. The 2023 Festival, March 20-April 16, will include four weeks of events featuring diverse and creative programming promoting traditional and contemporary arts and culture, natural beauty, and community spirit. Leadership Circle Sponsors for the 2023 National Cherry Blossom Festival are Events DC and Amazon. Add the 2023 Festival and signature events to your calendar, and visit NationalCherryBlossomFestival.org or call 877.44.BLOOM (877.442.5666) for more information. Get the latest updates via email, and be sure to follow the Festival on Facebook (@CherryBlossomFestival), Instagram (@CherryBlossFest), Twitter (@CherryBlossFest) and YouTube (@CherryBlossFest). 

Participating Organization: ARTECHOUSE DC PRESENTS ITS SIXTH ANNUAL CHERRY BLOSSOM-INSPIRED EXHIBITION — PIXELBLOOM: TIMELESS BUTTERFLIES

Posted on | by Jordan Griffin

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

PRESS CONTACT:
Je’Coven Norwood | jecoven@taapr.com
High-Resolution Images

ARTECHOUSE DC PRESENTS ITS SIXTH ANNUAL CHERRY BLOSSOM-INSPIRED EXHIBITION — PIXELBLOOM: TIMELESS BUTTERFLIES

An ARTECHOUSE Studio original, this brand-new exhibition expands the 2022 PIXELBLOOM universe and explores the ethereal beauty of butterflies through a mesmerizing digital lens.

Washington, DC — ARTECHOUSE, the leader in innovative, technology-driven experiential art, is pleased to present its sixth annual cherry blossom-inspired exhibition — PIXELBLOOM: Timeless Butterflies. An ARTECHOUSE Studio original that expands on the successful 2022 PIXELBLOOM exhibition, Timeless Butterflies is an all-new visual narrative that takes visitors through a virtual world of cherry blossoms to experience the ephemeral beauty of butterflies. The visually stunning exhibition is a celebration of Washington, DC’s time-honored and beloved cherry blossom season. This family-friendly exhibition, PIXELBLOOM: Timeless Butterflies will be open to the public daily from March 11 until June 11, 2023, at ARTECHOUSE DC (1238 Maryland Ave. SW).

PIXELBLOOM: Timeless Butterflies is a joyous audio-visual story that pays tribute to nature’s exuberance and the arrival of spring. Leveraging custom technologies, ARTECHOUSE Studio reimagines the potential of a vibrant full spring bloom, both digital and organic in design, to create a one-of-a-kind enchanting, immersive journey. The stunning assortment of butterflies are released from winter slumber, nodding to the start of spring and turning ‘pixels’ into full bloom.

“Paying homage to spring and DC’s cherry blossom season has become a tradition at ARTECHOUSE that I am very proud of. It allows us to connect to our community, while still pushing the creative and technological capabilities. Through this exhibition’s focus on the enchanting butterflies, and their nod to the changing season, we hope to bring the audience’s attention to nature and the nuances of our ever-changing climate, stirring up a deeper appreciation for the world around us,” said Sandro Kereselidze, ARTECHOUSE Founder & Chief Creative Officer.

Led by founder Sandro Kereselidze, ARTECHOUSE continues to use creativity, technology and innovation to educate and delight visitors, as well as empower the artist community looking for new ways to showcase their talents.

At the heart of the exhibition is a virtual microcosm of flourishing cherry blossoms with dynamic visuals created through an unmatched pixel density and highly immersive original soundscape. ARTECHOUSE Studio collaborated with award-winning motion graphics designer Scott Pagano and multi-platinum producer and composer Matt Lange, as well as sound designer Zach Ivans, to create a total metaverse-like environmental immersion, placing audiences in a whimsical and vivid butterfly dream that showcases the blooming of thousands of cherry blossoms.

Visitors can further explore the various layers of a butterfly’s life cycle and its relationship to the environment through a series of interactive installations. Designed and produced by ARTECHOUSE Studio, these installations feature “Digital Flower Experiments” by Japanese digital designer Mei Tamazawa.

PIXELBLOOM: Timeless Butterflies also kicks off a partnership with LG Display, furthering ARTECHOUSE’s mission to empower artists with the latest tools and technologies and inspire creative innovation. An installation depicting the famous Monarch Butterfly migration cycle is brought to life through LG Display’s unique Transparent OLED screens, and will be on view inside the media lab space.

“For the sixth year, National Cherry Blossom Festival is proud to include ARTECHOUSE’s incredible exhibit as part of the 2023 Festival celebration. We invite Festival-goers to add the PIXELBLOOM: Timeless Butterflies exhibition to their Festival plans for a unique, immersive experience that leverages the power of art and technology in appreciation of the beautiful blossoms,” said Diana Mayhew, president and CEO of the National Cherry Blossom Festival.

Unique to the ARTECHOUSE experience is its XR Bar, which offers a curated menu of cocktails and mocktails inspired by the exhibition and brought to life with digital art through ARTECHOUSE XR mobile app. The XR Bar is open daily, starting at 3pm on weekdays and 12pm on weekends.

PIXELBLOOM: Timeless Butterflies opens March 11, 2021 and runs through June 11, 2023. ARTECHOUSE DC is open daily 10am-10pm. ARTECHOUSE DC’s XR Bar is open Daily from 11am-close. Tickets are $17-30. To purchase tickets online, visit: artechouse.com/location/dc.

TIMES & HOURS:
PIXELBLOOM, Timeless Butterflies will be open to the public from March 11 – June 11, 2023
Daily Admissions: 10am-10pm
Preview PIXELBLOOM: Timeless Butterflies March 11-12, 2023 with specially priced tickets, available only on ARTECHOUSE.COM

TICKETS:

  • Anytime Ticket: $30
  • General Admission (16+): $25
  • Specialty Priced Tickets (available prior to 7pm daily):
  • Children(Ages4-15): $17
  • FREE for children under the age of 4
  • Students, Seniors, Military & First Responders: $20 (valid ID required)
  • Family Bundle: $72 (2 adults, 2 children) Monday-Friday
  • DC Metro Locals: $20 Monday-Friday (valid ID required)
  • Find special rates for school field trip tickets here, as part of ARTCHOUSE’s commitment to inspiring the next generation of innovators.Book in advance and save on your visit. Single and group tickets can be reserved in advance at https://www.artechouse.com/location/dc/In order to maximize this experience, visitors are encouraged to download the free ARTECHOUSE XR app (available on Android and Apple Apple Stores) before they arrive.

    ARTECHOUSE DC Annual Pass:

    Guests can support ARTECHOUSE programming through its Annual Pass. Passholders enjoy unlimited visits to ARTECHOUSE DC and receive access to exclusive offers, including 10% off merchandise and drinks at the XR Bar. ARTECHOUSE DC Annual Passes can be purchased here.

    LOCATION:

    ARTECHOUSE Washington, DC, is located at 1238 Maryland Ave SW, Washington, DC 20024. in walking distance from the National Mall, L’Enfant Plaza, and the District Wharf.

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    ABOUT ARTECHOUSE

    An innovative leader in the field of digital and experiential art, ARTECHOUSE expands the possibilities of art and how we experience it through cutting-edge technology-driven exhibitions and experiences. ARTECHOUSE connects progressive ideas, artists and audiences to stimulate innovation and creativity at the intersection of art, science and technology. What started as the nation’s first digital art space is now a home, online and off, for technology-driven art innovation, with a mission to empower and fund the creation of new, experiential and exploratory art forms that make an impact.

 

Participating Organization: Japan returns to the heart of DC on April 15-16, 2023 at the Japan- America Society of Washington DC’s (JASWDC) Sakura Matsuri – Japanese Street Festival.

Posted on | by Jordan Griffin

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Japan returns to the heart of DC on April 15-16, 2023 at the Japan- America Society of Washington DC’s (JASWDC) Sakura Matsuri – Japanese Street Festival.

Washington, DC – Sakura Matsuri 2023 will feature over 24 hours of Japanese performances and cultural presentations, authentic Japanese food and beverages, handmade Japanese crafts, and more.

The festival’s feature exhibit, Beyond Tokyo Pavilion: Regions of Japan, will introduce attendees to less-known areas of Japan and how best to travel to these regions. The Japan Smart Infrastructure Pavilion will showcase some of the cutting-edge Japanese technologies, products, and services that will help define the future infrastructure of American life. JASWDC is also thrilled to announce the return of the Culinary Arts Pavilion and Stage, showcasing Japanese food culture, from the delicious art of Japanese sweets (wagashi) to the unique flavors of umami.

The Matsuri’s four stages and five unique areas will return with a mix of new and legacy exhibitors, welcoming back performers from Japan. Attendees will be thrilled by the famous Martial Arts stage, with everything from karate to kendo. The Taste of Japan area invites attendees to explore the flavors of Japan with over 20 food vendors, four Kirin Beer Gardens, and the Hakutsuru Sake Tasting Pavilion. Attendees can engage in hands-on cultural experiences in the Arts & Culture area with 30 Japanese exhibitions, from doll-making to calligraphy. For those in the mood to shop, the Ginza Marketplace and Japan Now areas are guaranteed to tempt with a colorful array of authentic Japanese products. Finally, the Matsuri’s Children’s Corner is perfect for family-friendly activities for children of all ages. Check sakurmatsuri.org for performance and feature updates as April 15th approaches.

Japan-America Society of Washington DC is proud to welcome back Presenting Sponsor Kirin Beer.

The Sakura Matsuri – Japanese Street Festival marks the importance of the United States-Japan relationship in our Nation’s Capital and Japan’s significant legacy in the District of Columbia since its gift of cherry trees to our region 110 years ago. Japan-America Society of Washington DC’s Sakura Matsuri-Japanese Street Festival is proud to participate in Washington DC’s National Cherry Blossom Festival as a Premier Event.

Tickets
Earlybird One-Day: $10
Earlybird Two-Day: $15
Family Pass: $50 (one-day)/$70 (two-day)
Sake Tasting Pavilion (Matsuri entry included): $50 Children under 12: Free Entry

Regular-priced one-day tickets ($15) will be available online and as walk-up sales on April 15 & 16. JASWDC encourages all participants to purchase tickets in advance to expedite entry at sakuramatsuri.org. In addition, local high schools may inquire with sakuramatsuri@jaswdc.org about the availability of complimentary tickets through JASWDC’s Sakura Matsuri in Local Schools (SMILES) program.

Matsuri App
The official app for Sakura Matsuri – Japanese Street Festival 2023, powered by Guidebook, is now available. With this resource, you have access to the most up-to- date information. Search “JASWDC Guides” in the App Store or Google Play to download the guide on your iOS and Android devices.

Hours of Operation, Location & Entrances
10:30 AM-6:00 PM, Saturday, April 15th
10:30 AM-4:00 PM, Sunday, April 16th

The Matsuri will be held at Pennsylvania & Constitution Ave. 3rd-7th St NW, Washington DC. There will be entrances to the Festival at Penn Ave and 7th, Constitution and 6th, and John Marshall Park. Entrance lines can be long, so check the festival map on the day to find the most convenient entrance.

Press Contacts
For more information regarding the Sakura Matsuri – Japanese Street Festival, please contact Jessica Webster with the Japan-America Society of Washington DC at jwebster@jaswdc.org or call (202) 833-2210. For media information, please contact Olivia Kent at okent@jaswdc.org.

About the Japan-America Society of Washington DC
The Japan-America Society of Washington DC is a 501(c)(3) educational non-profit organization dedicated to strengthening the relationship between Japan and the U.S. at the grassroots public diplomacy level. Our programming aims to bring Japanese and American people closer together in the Nation’s Capital area.

About The National Cherry Blossom Festival
The National Cherry Blossom Festival is one of the world’s great celebrations of spring. The 2023 Festival, March 20-April 16, includes four weeks of events featuring diverse and creative programming promoting traditional and contemporary arts and culture, natural beauty, and community spirit. Leadership Circle Sponsors for the 2023 National Cherry Blossom Festival are Events DC and Amazon. Add the 2023 Festival dates and signature event dates to your calendar, and visit NationalCherryBlossomFestival.org or call 877.44.BLOOM for more information. Get the latest updates via email, and be sure to follow the Festival on Facebook (@CherryBlossomFestival), Instagram (@CherryBlossFest), Twitter (@CherryBlossFest) and YouTube (@CherryBlossFest).

Participating Organization: Library of Congress to Celebrate National Cherry Blossom Festival

Posted on | by Jordan Griffin

Media Contact: Leah Knobel, lknobel@loc.gov
Public Contact: Mari Nakahara, mnak@loc.gov

Library of Congress to Celebrate National Cherry Blossom Festival
Explore Japanese Culture with Experts from the Library on April 1

The Library of Congress will host its annual Japanese Culture Day in celebration of the 2023 National Cherry Blossom Festival, an annual commemoration of Japan’s 1912 gift to the U.S. of 3,020 cherry trees.

Japanese Culture Day will take place at the Library’s Thomas Jefferson Building on Saturday, April 1, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., featuring family activities, including Japanese harp performances, storytelling, and arts and crafts from Japan. The event is free and open to the public. Time entry reservations are required at: https://loc.usedirect.com/LOC

Japanese Culture Day
April 1, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Great Hall Mezzanine, Thomas Jefferson Building, 10 First St., SE, Washington, D.C.

Children of all ages, families and teachers can learn about Japanese culture through reading, writing and craft-making with Japanese cultural and linguistic professionals during the Library’s Japanese Culture Day. Collection items related to cherry blossoms and Japanese culture will also be on display.

Japanese Harp Presentation
Presentations will take place at 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 1:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m.

Japanese Storytelling
Storytelling will take place at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 2 p.m.

Other activities include:

  • Hands-on lessons about origami artwork creation
  • Japanese calligraphy
  • Decorative Koinobori and Japanese woodblock print coloring
  • Tiara making with cherry blossom princesses
  • Kimono trial

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About the National Cherry Blossom Festival

The National Cherry Blossom Festival is one of the world’s great celebrations of spring. The 2023 Festival, March 20-April 16, includes four weeks of events featuring diverse and creative programming promoting traditional and contemporary arts and culture, natural beauty, and community spirit. Leadership Circle Sponsors for the 2023 National Cherry Blossom Festival are Events DC and Amazon. Add the 2023 Festival dates and signature event dates to your calendar, and visit NationalCherryBlossomFestival.org or call 877.44.BLOOM for more information. Get the latest updates via email, and be sure to follow the Festival on Facebook (@CherryBlossomFestival), Instagram (@CherryBlossFest), Twitter (@CherryBlossFest) and YouTube (@CherryBlossFest).

About the Library
The Library of Congress is the world’s largest library, offering access to the creative record of the United States — and extensive materials from around the world — both on-site and online. It is the main research arm of the U.S. Congress and the home of the U.S. Copyright Office. Explore collections, reference services and other programs and plan a visit at loc.gov; access the official site for U.S. federal legislative information at congress.gov; and register creative works of authorship at copyright.gov.

Participating Organization: U.S.-Japan International Exchange and Tourism Symposium 2023 Rebuilding and Strengthening Exchange and Tourism Between the U.S. and Japan Post-COVID

Posted on | by Jordan Griffin

Press Release
For Immediate Release: February 15, 2023

U.S.-Japan International Exchange and Tourism Symposium 2023
Rebuilding and Strengthening Exchange and Tourism Between the U.S. and Japan Post-COVID

An Official Participating Event
Thursday, March 23, 2023 3pm-6pm (EST) Reception to Follow
Willard InterContinental Hotel, Washington D.C.
& Held Virtually in English and Japanese

Outline
Relations between the U.S. and Japan have been supported by multi-layered and extensive people-to- people exchanges, including business, academic, cultural, educational, and tourism activities, with diplomacy and national security at the forefront. However, these people-to-people exchanges were severely constrained by the pandemic.

In addition, including recent events of Russia’s military invasion of Ukraine and China’s hegemonic movements, such as its aggressive maritime expansion, the international situation has changed rapidly, making it vital to develop and evolve U.S.-Japan relations. Last December, we held the first JTTRI-JITTI Global Seminar “The Rapidly Changing Post-Pandemic World Order and the New Japan-U.S. Relations Hereafter,” inviting former U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Ambassador Richard Armitage and former Japan’s Secretary General of National Security Secretariat Shotaro Yachi, both of whom are prominent experts on diplomacy and national security from the U.S. and Japan, connecting the two countries online.

Therefore, as a continuation of the Global Seminar, our symposium theme is multilayered and extensive people-to-people exchanges, which is an important perspective for building a new dimension of U.S.-Japan relations. The seminar aims to reconsider the significance of, and rebuild and strengthen, U.S.-Japan people-to-people exchanges to a new and higher dimension post- COVID. This hybrid symposium will be held virtually and in-person in Washington D.C., and has invited speakers who are knowledgeable about U.S.-Japan relations, international people-to-people exchange, and tourism.

Program
Opening Remarks

  •  Masafumi Shukuri, Chairman, JTTRI Greetings by Guest of Honor
  •  Koji Tomita, Ambassador of Japan to the U.S. Keynote Speech

Recent Changes in International Situations and the Importance of U.S.-Japan Relations

  • Thomas Schieffer, former Ambassador of the U.S.A. to Japan
  • Takashi Shiraishi, President, Kumamoto Prefectural University

Lecture
The Importance of International Exchange from the Perspective of Diplomatic Relations and the Future of Tourism

  • Kent Calder, Director, Edwin O. Reischauer Center for East Asian Studies, Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies
  • Satoshi Seino, President, Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO)

Panel Discussion
The Significance of People-to-People Exchanges and its Strengthening and Rebuilding

Moderator: Kent Calder, Director, Edwin O. Reischauer Center for East Asian Studies, Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies

Panelists:

    • Mark Keam, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Travel and Tourism Policy and Analysis, US Department of Commerce
    • Koichi Ai, Minister, Embassy of Japan in the U.S. (General Affairs, Public Information and Culture)
    • Kazuyo Kato, Executive Director, Japan Center for International Exchange, USA (JCIE USA)

About the National Cherry Blossom Festival:

The National Cherry Blossom Festival is one of the world’s great celebrations of spring. The 2023 Festival, March 20-April 16, includes four weeks of events featuring diverse and creative programming promoting traditional and contemporary arts and culture, natural beauty, and community spirit. Leadership Circle Sponsors for the 2023 National Cherry Blossom Festival are Events DC and Amazon. Add the 2023 Festival dates and signature event dates to your calendar, and visit NationalCherryBlossomFestival.org or call 877.44.BLOOM for more information. Get the latest updates via email, and be sure to follow the Festival on Facebook (@CherryBlossomFestival), Instagram (@CherryBlossFest), Twitter (@CherryBlossFest) and YouTube (@CherryBlossFest).

Participating Organization: NEW MONTHLY “FIRST SATURDAYS” PROGRAM OFFERS IMMERSIVE, MULTIGENERATIONAL EXPERIENCES

Posted on | by Jordan Griffin

CONTACT:
Christina Paluvai February 27, 2022
(202) 842-6598
c-paluvai@nga.gov
For more information and publicity images, visit nga.gov/press

NEW MONTHLY “FIRST SATURDAYS” PROGRAM OFFERS
IMMERSIVE, MULTIGENERATIONAL EXPERIENCES

Washington, DC—The National Gallery of Art has launched a new monthly program designed to serve a range of audiences on the first Saturday of each month. While activities will vary based on theme and the time of year, visitors can expect films, art making, talks, tours, and pop-up performances. For ease of access, most programs will not require registration.

“We hope to make the East Building the place to be the first Saturday of each month—whether you’re looking for activities for your child, a space to gather with friends, or an outlet to create art on your own,” said Grace Murray, head of public programs. “Our aim is to replicate some of the highlights from our most popular programs, such as National Gallery Nights, and offer them in a relaxed daytime setting.”

Upcoming First Saturdays include a celebration of the exhibition Called to Create on March 4 and an ode to spring and cherry blossoms on April 1, an official event of the National Cherry Blossom Festival.

Upcoming First Saturday Programs

Saturday, March 4

Celebrating Called to Create: Black Artists of the American South, this First Saturday program begins with kids’ films from the New York International Children’s Film Festival at 10:30 a.m. followed by drop-in art making inspired by works in Called to Create from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. At 1:00 and 3:00 p.m., visitors can join special exhibition tours of Called to Create led by National Gallery educators. Throughout the day, our pop-up library will display rare books and art images from our collection. See the program page.

Saturday, April 1

Celebrate the spring season and cherry blossoms in this official National Cherry Blossom Festival event. Check out kids’ films at 10:30 a.m. and make flower collages from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. From noon to 3:00 p.m., create a custom cherry blossom print with Soul & Ink and enjoy pop-up performances from violinist Peter Shepard Skaerved. At 1:00 p.m., we’re joined by renowned plant specialist and designer Hilton Carter, who will talk about his new book, Living Wild (registration required.) And at 3:00 p.m., join director Jem Cohen for a discussion and screening of his film The Ballad of Philip Guston (registration required), programmed with our special exhibition Philip Guston Now. See the program page. 

Saturday, May 6

Join us for drawing activities inspired by East Building architecture from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. At noon and 3:00 p.m., immerse yourself in 32 Sounds, a documentary and sensory experience from filmmaker Sam Green (registration required). And at 2:00 p.m., join National Gallery educator Nathalie Ryan for a tour of Philip Guston Now. See the program page.

For the latest information on First Saturday programs, visit nga.gov/community and sign up for our weekly newsletter.

About the National Cherry Blossom Festival

The National Cherry Blossom Festival is one of the world’s great celebrations of springtime. The 2023 festival, March 20–April 16, includes four weeks of diverse and creative programming promoting traditional and contemporary arts and culture, natural beauty, and community spirit. Leadership Circle Sponsors for the 2023 National Cherry Blossom Festival are Events DC and Amazon. Add the 2023 festival dates and signature event dates to your calendar and visit NationalCherryBlossomFestival.org or call 877.44.BLOOM for more information. Get the latest updates via email and follow the festival on Facebook (@CherryBlossomFestival), Instagram (@CherryBlossFest), Twitter (@CherryBlossFest), and YouTube (@CherryBlossFest).

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Participating Organization: The 31st National Japan Bowl returns in person on April 13-14, 2023

Posted on | by Jordan Griffin

202-833-2210
1819 L St, NW, #410, Washington, DC, 20036
okent@jaswdc.org

For Immediate Release

The 31st National Japan Bowl returns in person on April 13-14, 2023

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Japan-America Society of Washington DC (JASWDC) is excited to announce that the 31st National Japan Bowl competition will be held on Thursday and Friday, April 13-14, 2023, at the University of Maryland College Park Campus.

For the past 31 years, JASWDC has organized the Japan Bowl to recognize and encourage students across the United States who have chosen Japanese as their foreign language. The National Japan Bowl, America’s only nationwide Japanese-language competition, is vital for inspiring students and reinforcing their teachers’ and school districts’ efforts and investments.

Among the National Japan Bowl alumni are tomorrow’s leaders of our diplomatic, commercial, security, and cultural relations with Japan. Many credit the Japan Bowl as an important motivator in their endeavors.

After three years of successful online competitions, the National Japan Bowl returns to an in-person format for the first time since 2019. The Society looks forward to welcoming approximately 200 students and teachers from around the country to participate in the two-day competition.

The Championship Rounds and Closing Ceremony will be live-streamed from 3- 6:30 PM EST on Friday, April 14, on the JASWDC YouTube channel. Viewers can expect appearances from Japan Bowl Honorary Patron Her Royal Highness Princess Takamado and other Japan Bowl supporters alongside surprise VIP guests to be announced closer to the date.

The Japan-America Society of Washington DC has supported the creation of twenty regional Japan Bowl competitions across America and worldwide, giving the program a global impact.

The National Japan Bowl is proud to be a “participating event” of Washington DC’s National Cherry Blossom Festival.

Participating Schools
Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology, VA
Liceo Mexicano Japones, MX
Ocean Lakes High School, VA
Eastern High School, KY
Center for Global Studies at Brien McMahon High School, CT
Lynbrook High School, CA
Cupertino High School, CA
Lake Braddock Secondary School, VA
Paint Branch High School, MD
St John’s School, GU
Townsend Harris High School, NY
Maggie L Walker Governor’s School, VA
Stuyvesant High School, NY
The Woodlands High School, TX Stevenson School, CA
Langley High School, VA
Hayfield Secondary School, VA
Montgomery Blair High School, MD
Gretchen Whitney High School, CA

Summary of the Event
The Japan Bowl is not just a challenging and fun competition; it also allows students to experience Japanese culture firsthand and meet other students who share their interest in Japan and its language.

Competitors are divided into three levels during the competition based on how long they have studied Japanese. Each school sends a team of two to three students to compete at each level. Over two days, teams tackle 90 questions and a conversation round. Finally, the top three teams from each level will face off in the championship rounds to determine who will be crowned this year’s national champions.

Students will enjoy live workshops between rounds, including origami, tea ceremony, and Japanese cooking demonstrations. Students and teachers can also network with each other and various Japanese cultural organizations, universities, and sponsors to learn more about study abroad programs and Japanese language and cultural opportunities outside the classroom.

The National Japan Bowl’s top winners travel to Japan for a week of cultural experiences with host families and Japanese students and an audience with dignitaries, including Her Imperial Highness Princess Takamado, the National Japan Bowl’s honorary patron.

Contact Information
For more information about the National Japan Bowl, contact Elece Smith at japanbowl@jaswdc.org. For media access and press coverage of the event, contact Olivia Kent at okent@jaswdc.org.

About the Japan-America Society of Washington DC
The Japan-America Society of Washington DC is a 501(c)(3) educational and cultural non-profit organization dedicated to strengthening the relationship between Japan and the U.S. at the grassroots public diplomacy level. JASWDC’s programming aims to bring Japanese and American people closer together in the Nation’s Capital area.

About the National Cherry Blossom Festival
The National Cherry Blossom Festival is one of the world’s great celebrations of spring. The 2023 Festival, March 20-April 16, includes four weeks of events featuring diverse and creative programming promoting traditional and contemporary arts and culture, natural beauty, and community spirit. Leadership Circle Sponsors for the 2023 National Cherry Blossom Festival are Events DC and Amazon. Add the 2023 Festival dates and signature event dates to your calendar, and visit NationalCherryBlossomFestival.org or call 877.44.BLOOM for more information. Get the latest updates via email, and be sure to follow the Festival on Facebook (@CherryBlossomFestival), Instagram (@CherryBlossFest), Twitter (@CherryBlossFest) and YouTube (@CherryBlossFest).

Participating Organization: National Conference of State Societies (NCSS) Celebrates the 75th Anniversary of the U.S. Cherry Blossom Princess Program

Posted on | by Jordan Griffin

**PRESS RELEASE – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

National Conference of State Societies (NCSS)
Celebrates the 75th Anniversary of the U.S. Cherry Blossom Princess Program

The National Conference of States Societies (NCSS) celebrates the 75th Anniversary of the U.S Cherry Blossom Princess Program in 2023. NCSS was chartered by Congress in April 1952. And is both a 501 (c) 3 and 501 (c) 4 non-profit organization representing the United States and its Territories. Our members include state and territorial expatriates including students, members of the military, active and retired lobbyists and government workers, members of Congress, and staff living in the national capital region. Our membership from the fifty-six state and territorial societies is approximately 20,000 people.

In 1948 NCSS joined the DC Commissioners in restarting the pre-war cherry blossom festival to rebuild friendly relations with Japan. The role of the state societies was to sponsor events and develop an educational and cultural exchange program. The Cherry Blossom Princesses participate in a robust and diverse schedule during the final week of the National Cherry Blossom Festival®.  All state societies are nonpartisan and include active participation by state members of Congress, many of whom have in the past and still serve as officers of state societies. For example, former President Lyndon B. Johnson was a president of the Texas State Society in 1955 when he was Senate Majority Leader. Former U.S. House Speaker Dennis Hastert was President of the Illinois State Society of Washington, DC from 1992 to 1994. Congressman Paul Ryan (WI) served as Honorary NCSS President while Speaker of the House of Representatives from 2015-2019.

On Friday night April 14th, 2023, NCSS will select the 75th U.S. Cherry Blossom Queen, during the Celebration of States and Territories Gala.  The new Queen is selected by a random “spin of the wheel”.  The new Queen will travel to Japan, representing the United States during the annual goodwill tour, meeting heads of state, the Japanese Prime Minister, and the Imperial Family.

Join NCSS, top officials, and diplomatic leaders for one of our nation’s most beloved spring traditions – featuring fabulous food created by the Capital Hilton’s amazing Chef and his team, fresh sushi prepared by the Sushi Chefs of Washington, delicious desserts, and an open bar.  Music and dancing start immediately with a program that includes special guests, the introduction of the 2023 Cherry Blossom Princesses, and the official coronation of the new United States Cherry Blossom Queen featuring the priceless MIKIMOTO Ceremonial Crown. Time: 6:30 PM to 10 PM Location: Capital Hilton, 1001 N. 16th St. NW, WDC 20001

For more information and to purchase tickets, go to:  www.statesocieties.org
Contact: Teresa Downs, V.P. NCSS
540.460.8598
vp@statesocieties.org

Participating Organization: Japan Information & Culture Center, Embassy of Japan Presents New Exhibition “Blossoming Flowers in Japanese Art and Poetry” In partnership with the National Cherry Blossom Festival 2023

Posted on | by Jordan Griffin

Media Contact: Sarah Morris
Phone: (202) 238-6947
Email: jicc@ws.mofa.go.jp

Japan Information & Culture Center, Embassy of Japan Presents New Exhibition “Blossoming Flowers in Japanese Art and Poetry”

In partnership with the National Cherry Blossom Festival 2023

WASHINGTON DC — In a celebration of the National Cherry Blossom Festival, and the enduring Japan-US friendship, the Japan Information & Culture Center (JICC), Embassy of Japan presents, “Blossoming Flowers in Japanese Art and Poetry.”

This free exhibition will showcase paintings from the Embassy’s private collection alongside the haiku and visual art of students from over 10 different schools throughout the DC metropolitan area. Inspired by the symbolism of flowers in Japanese art and poetry, students let their creativity “bloom” in this unique collaboration.

Come and see how flowers are used to appreciate life’s precious moments through the creations of masters and novices alike. The JICC is pleased to have this opportunity to reconnect with the community and to continue to be an outlet for grassroots Japan-US connections.

This exhibition will begin on March 17th and run through May 5th, Monday through Friday on adjusted hours of 10 am – 4:30 pm.

“We are honored and excited to be able to continue to partner with the National Cherry Blossom Festival and local schools throughout the area to continue to strengthen our Japan-US friendship,” remarked Deputy Director for the JICC, KOIKE Megumi.

ABOUT THE JAPAN INFORMATION & CULTURE CENTER (JICC), EMBASSY OF JAPAN

The Japan Information & Culture Center (JICC) is the public face of the Embassy of Japan in Washington D.C. located on 1150 18th Street NW. Open on weekdays from 9AM to 5PM, the JICC is committed to enriching the relationship between Japan and the United States through an active, vibrant cultural exchange. The JICC aims to promote a better understanding of Japan and

Japanese culture by providing a variety of programs including film screenings, lectures, educational programs, and cultural exhibits. To learn more, visit https://www.us.emb- japan.go.jp/jicc/

ABOUT THE NATIONAL CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL

The National Cherry Blossom Festival is one of the world’s great celebrations of spring. The 2023 Festival, March 20-April 16, includes four weeks of events featuring diverse and creative programming promoting traditional and contemporary arts and culture, natural beauty, and community spirit. Leadership Circle Sponsors for the 2023 National Cherry Blossom Festival are Events DC and Amazon.

Add the 2023 Festival dates and signature event dates to your calendar, and visit NationalCherryBlossomFestival.org or call 877.44.BLOOM for more information. Get the latest updates via email, and be sure to follow the Festival on Facebook (@CherryBlossomFestival), Instagram (@CherryBlossFest), Twitter (@CherryBlossFest) and YouTube (@CherryBlossFest).

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JAPAN INFORMATION & CULTURE CENTER, EMBASSY OF JAPAN| 1150 18th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20036 | 202-238-6900
http://www.us.emb-japan.go.jp/jicc | @JAPANEMBDC

Participating Organization: CELEBRATE CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL AT THE CHILDREN’S SCIENCE CENTER LAB

Posted on | by Jordan Griffin

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact:
Dorothy Ready
dorothyready@childsci.org
703.963.6699

CELEBRATE CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL AT THE

CHILDREN’S SCIENCE CENTER LAB

Fairfax, VA, March 1, 2023  – The Children’s Science Center Lab will be offering the National Cherry Blossom Festival Celebration thanks to the generous support of Visit Fairfax and their annual partnership with the National Cherry Blossom Festival. Guests will be encouraged to look at the cherry blossoms through the lens of science with hands-on activities. They will observe capillaries in action at the Experiment Bar, create flower origami in the Tinker Shop, and learn the science and history of cherry blossoms while embarking on a scavenger throughout the entire Lab.

The National Cherry Blossom Festival Celebration at the Lab is located inside Fair Oaks Mall and will take place March 25 through April 16, during weekend timed-entry sessions available at 10:00 – 12:00 p.m. and 2 – 4 p.m. To learn more and purchase tickets online, visit childsci.org and save $2 per ticket.

The Children’s Science Center Lab opened in 2015 to provide children, families and school groups a place to explore science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) concepts through engaging hands-on exhibits, activities and programs.

About Northern Virginia Science Center Foundation

The Northern Virginia Science Center Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that operates the Children’s Science Center Lab at Fair Oaks Mall and STEM programs traveling to schools and other community venues across the region. The Foundation is helping develop the Northern Virginia Science Center in partnership with the Science Museum of Virginia through a pivotal public private partnership that also includes Loudoun County and critical support from the private sector. The Science Center will be located in Dulles, VA and will be a world-class, interactive museum for families, students and learners of all ages that will spark and sustain the natural curiosity in all of us. Learn more at novasci.org.

About the National Cherry Blossom Festival

The National Cherry Blossom Festival is one of the world’s great celebrations of spring. The 2023 Festival, March 20-April 16, includes four weeks of events featuring diverse and creative programming promoting traditional and contemporary arts and culture, natural beauty and community spirit. Leadership Circle Sponsors for the 2023 National Cherry Blossom Festival are Events DC and Amazon. Add the 2023 Festival dates and signature event dates to your calendar, and visit NationalCherryBlossomFestival.org or call 877.44.BLOOM for more information. Get the latest updates via email, and be sure to follow the Festival on Facebook (@CherryBlossomFestival), Instagram (@CherryBlossFest), Twitter (@CherryBlossFest) and YouTube (@CherryBlossFest).

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Participating Organization: Credit Union Cherry Blossom Virtual Run Provides National Cherry Blossom Festival Participants with a Chance to Earn a Medal and a T-shirt While Running or Walking through the Blossoms – Anywhere

Posted on | by Jordan Griffin

Credit Union Cherry Blossom Virtual Run Provides National Cherry Blossom Festival Participants with a Chance to Earn a Medal and a T-shirt WhileRunning or Walking through the Blossoms – Anywhere

Dates of Fourth Annual VirtualRun coincide with the dates of the

NationalCherryBlossomFestival, March20 – April16, 2023.

Phone 301-320-6865
WWW.cherryblossom,org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

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March 1, 2023, Washington, DC: The organizers of the Credit Union Cherry Blossom 10 Mile and 5K are once again partnering with the National Cherry Blossom Festival to present the Credit Union Cherry Blossom Virtual Run as a highlight of the month long National Cherry Blossom Festival in our Nation’s Capital . Throughout theentire 29 day span of the Festival March 20 through April 16 Festival participants and cherry blossom lovers across the country and around the world are encouraged to enjoy the arboreal beauty of the trees and celebrate springtime while running or walking 10 miles or 5K.

Event Director Phil Stewart said: “Although entry into our in-person 10mile and 5K runs is closed, people anywhere can take part in the Credit Union Cherry Blossom Virtual Run. It’s easy and it’s fun. Register, run(or walk) and reap a handsome t-shirt and a medal while viewing blossoms in Washington, DC or in your hometown. Those doing their run or walk in town on Sunday morning, April 2 are encouraged to stop by the Washington Monument Grounds at 7:30 a.m. to watch the 50*’’Annual in-person 10 Mile Run where elite men and women compete for a total of$119,000 in prize money and record bonuses.”

The entry fee for the Credit Union Cherry Blossom Virtual Run is $40($75 for international participants), and all registrants receive a VirtualRun t-shirt and a medal, which will be mailed to them by June 1. Registration remains open through April 10 and can be accessed here.

Here are some unique features of the 4th Annual CreditUnion Cherry Blossom VirtualRun:

● Everyone can do it. The Virtual Run is open to everyone. Dogs, too. There are no entry limits and no time limits.

● It can be run anywhere. Of course, runners are encouraged to do their virtual run in and around our Nation’s Capital during this year’s National Cherry Blossom Festival. But runners who live elsewhere are welcome to do so. In conjunction with the National Cherry Blossom Festival, virtual run organizers will provide a map showing prime cherry blossom viewing areas in the Washington,DC Metropolitan area.

● It’s all about the pictures. The Credit Union Cherry Blossom Virtual Run will conduct a number of photo contests over the course of the race period.Participants will be encouraged to share photos of springtime blooms along their favorite course, or photos of their running group.There will even be a contest for favorite furry friends and training partners.

● Results will be posted. Those who wish to see how they stack up with other Virtual Run participants can upload their performances into our VirtualRun results platform. Registrants can set up teams in a special team competition division. Special recognition is given to both the fast and largest teams..

● All the necessary details are available here.

Both the virtual and in-person editions of the Credit Union Cherry Blossom 10 Mile and 5K serve as vital fundraising opportunities for Children’s Miracle Network – our official charity partner.

Thanks to Credit Union Miracle Day’s title sponsorship since 2002, the Credit Union CherryBlossom Run has raised over $10.2 million for the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, including $323,000 in 2022.

About Credit Union Cherry Blossom:

The CreditUnion Cherry Blossom races, organized by Cherry Blossom,Inc.,a 501c(3) chapter of the Road Runners Club of America, are known as “The Runner’s Rite of Spring®” in the Nation’s Capital. The staging area for Sunday’s 10 Mile is on the Washington Monument Grounds, and the course passes in sight of all of the major Washington, DC Memorials. In 2023, the reimagined Saturday 5K will stage on Freedom Plaza and traverse the route of Presidential Inaugurations down PennsylvaniaAvenue before crossing the National Mall in the shadow of the Capitol Building and returning by the same route.The Kids Run is staged on the grounds of the National Building Museum. All events serve as a fundraiser for the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, a consortium of 170 premier children’s hospitals across North America. About one-third of the funds raised support Washington, DC’s own Children’s National (“Children’s Hospital”). The event also funds the Road Runners Club of America’s “Roads Scholar” program designed to support up-and-coming U.S. distance running talent.

Credit Union Miracle Day, Inc., a consortium of credit unions and credit union suppliers, is the title sponsor of the Credit Union Cherry Blossom 10 Mile,5K, Kids Run and Virtual Run. Current presenting sponsors include ASICS, REl Co-op and Wegmans; supporting sponsors include CACI, Co-op Solutions, CUNA Mutual Group, Finisher Pix, Guayaki, MedStar Health, Mo Apartments, PSCU, Potomac River Running, Gatorade Endurance, Suburban Solutions and UPS.

The 10 Mile is a proud member of the PRRO Circuit (PRRO.org) a series of this country’s classic non-marathon prize money road races with circuit stops in Washington, DC; Spokane,WA; andUtica,NY. The 2023 10 Mile will serve as the 2022-2023 PRRO Championship.

In addition to being sanctioned by USA Track & Field and the Road Runners Club of America, the Credit Union Cherry Blossom races have earned Gold Level Inspire Certification from the Council for Responsible Sport in recognition of its legacy of commitment to sustainability and thoughtful resource management.

To learn more, visitwww.cherrvblossom.org and follow the event on social media @CUCB and #CUCB2023.

About the National Cherry Blossom Festival:

The National Cherry Blossom Festival is one of the world’s great celebrations of spring. The 2023 Festival, March 20-April 16, includes four weeks of events featuring diverse and creative programming promoting traditional and contemporary arts and culture, natural beauty, and community spirit.Leadership Circle Sponsors for the 2023 National Cherry Blossom Festival are EventsDC and Amazon.

Add the 2023 Festival dates and signature event dates to your calendar, and visit National Cherry Blossom Festival.org or call 877.44.BLOOM for more information. Get the latest updates via email, and be sure to follow the Festival on Facebook (@CherryBlossomFestival), Instagram (@CherryBlossFest), Twitter (@CherryBlossFest) and YouTube (@CherryBlossFest).

About Credit Union Miracle Day:

Credit Union Miracle Day is a partnership of over 100 credit unions, CUSOs and partner organizations united to sponsor the Credit Union Cherry Blossom races,promoting awareness ofthe credit union difference and benefitting Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals nationwide.

About America’s Credit Unions:

Credit unions are financial cooperatives that provide consumers choices for financial services such as checking accounts, investments and loans of all kinds, including mortgages. Funds are federally insured, but unlike banks, there are no stockholders at credit unions. Earnings are returned to member-owners in the form of lower loan rates, higher savings rates, and low or no-fee products and services.The credit union philosophy of placing members’ needs first is why more than 131 million Americans do their banking at a credit union.

—End—

Participating Organization: 25th Annual National Cherry Blossom Freedom Walk on April 1

Posted on | by Jordan Griffin

For Immediate Release

Media Contact
National Japanese American Memorial Foundation
www.njamemorial.org

25th Annual National Cherry Blossom Freedom Walk on April 1

WASHINGTON, D.C. – February 2023.  The National Japanese American Memorial Foundation (NJAMF) invites you to participate in the 25th Annual National Cherry Blossom Freedom Walk. The Freedom Walk will take place Saturday, April 1, 2023 at 10:00 am (EST). This annual event continues to be an official event of the National Cherry Blossom Festival.

The National Cherry Blossom Freedom Walk is a historical and cultural event to raise awareness about the Japanese American experience during World War II and to highlight the vigilant role that American citizens must continue to play in preserving the Constitutional rights of all Americans. Built as a lasting tribute to the more than 33,000 Japanese American soldiers who served with great distinction in the U.S. Military, the Memorial also pays homage to the more than 120,000 persons of Japanese ancestry unjustly relocated during World War II. It is also a testament to our nation’s greatness that it does not fear acknowledging its mistakes.

Our theme this year is “Commemorating and Continuing Our Fight for Civil Rights.”  This year marks the 35th anniversary of the passage of the Civil Liberties Act of 1988. The Civil Liberties Act of 1988 provided monetary redress to over 120,000 Japanese Americans who were wrongly incarcerated during World War II due to racial hysteria. The Civil Liberties Act of 1988 also established a public education fund to educate the public so that something like this could never happen again. On the program, we will feature a panel discussion on the topic of the need for collaborations from the broader civil rights community as well as politically in our continuing fight to protect the civil and constitutional rights for all Americans.  Mr. Wade Henderson, former President and CEO of the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights will talk about how his organization helped to gain passage of the bill and Ms. Shirley Higuchi, Chair of the Heart Mountain Wyoming Foundation and the Mineta-Simpson Institute, will talk about how she worked to gain support politically as well as with the community.

Our program is free to all.  Please visit the website at www.njamemorial.org/events. We will continue to update our website with registration and other information.

Freedom Walk is possible in part by the generous support of our sponsors:  National Japanese American Memorial Foundation, Japanese American Veterans Association, DC Chapter of the Japanese American Citizens League, and Ekoji Buddhist Temple.

The National Cherry Blossom Festival is one of the world’s great celebrations of spring. The 2023 Festival, March 20-April 16, includes four weeks of events featuring diverse and creative programming promoting traditional and contemporary arts and culture, natural beauty, and community spirit. Leadership Circle Sponsors for the 2023 National Cherry Blossom Festival are Events DC and Amazon. Add the 2023 Festival dates and signature event dates to your calendar, and visit NationalCherryBlossomFestival.org or call 877.44.BLOOM for more information. Get the latest updates via email, and be sure to follow the Festival on Facebook (@CherryBlossomFestival), Instagram (@CherryBlossFest), Twitter (@CherryBlossFest) and YouTube (@CherryBlossFest).

4200 Wisconsin Avenue, N.W., #106-236, Washington, D.C.  20016
(202) 503-9589
www.NJAMemorial.org

Participating Organization: Go “Into the Woods” at Frying Pan Farm Park

Posted on | by Jordan Griffin

___________­­­­­­­­­______________Information Release_________________________

Judy Pedersen, PIO                           February 5th, 2023

E-mail: parkmail@fairfaxcounty.gov                   IR-117       Inquiries:  703-324-8662

Go “Into the Woods” at Frying Pan Farm Park

To celebrate the National Cherry Blossom Festival, Frying Pan Farm park invites members of the community to the Annual Into the Woods program on April 1st from 11-1:30PM.

Into the Woods is a free event where visitors help cultivate a deep appreciation for our forest and the changes that occur there in the spring. Visitors will walk the nature trail behind the park and learn why the woods behind Frying Pan is so special and how we are working to preserve it for the future. Stations all along the trail will include activities that help develop an appreciation for the birds, plants and insects that inhabit the forest. You can even construct Fairy Houses made from natural items found throughout the woods.

Frying Pan is fortunate to have a globally rare forest-type created by a soil rich with nutrients from rocks formed millions of years ago during volcanic activity in the area. Visitors will learn more about this, what efforts the county is making to preserve the forest, and how they can help.

The event is completely free but the park asks that you register online or call the Visitor Center at 703-437-9101. You can bring the whole family, there will be something for everyone. To get to the event, drive to 2709 West Ox Road and park in the large parking lot in sight of the “Indoor Arena”. At the Indoor Arena there will be a table with maps and directions to get you to the trails.

Frying Pan Farm Park is located at 2709 West Ox Rd, Herndon, VA. For more information, please call 703-437-9101 or visit http://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/fryingpanpark/.

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