2024

CHRISTMAS PARTY 2024

Sunday, December 1,2024 at PlazaF

The 2024 Christmas Party was successfully held again this year!

This time, the event took place at Plaza F near Yotsuya Station, where we enjoyed delicious food, wine, and beer in a festive and joyful atmosphere. With over 40 participants, the venue was filled with warm smiles and laughter throughout the evening.

The party featured a variety of programs, including self-introductions from new attendees, our traditional auction of Minnesota-themed items, and a unique quiz about Minnesota. These activities created a lively and engaging atmosphere, naturally bringing participants closer together as they shared memories and updates on their lives.

One of the highlights of the evening was the opportunity to reconnect with old friends from our time in Minnesota and interact with those thriving on the international stage. It was a chance to reflect on the deep bonds formed during our days in Minnesota and share our unique journeys since then. These moments of connection enriched our hearts and made for a truly special experience.

The success of this party was made possible by everyone’s participation and support, for which we extend our heartfelt gratitude. We hope this wonderful event leaves fond memories for all who attended.

We will continue to organize events that deepen and expand the connections within our Minnesota community. Your ongoing support and participation mean the world to us, and we look forward to seeing you at even more exciting gatherings in the future. Here’s to meeting again next year for another memorable celebration!

Report on the Japan Minnesota Society Summer Event (Lecture Meeting)

＜Overview＞

Date: 10:30 a.m. - 11:50 a.m., Sunday, 25 August 2024 (Japan time)

Venue: Hibiya Library and Culture Center Studio Plus in Hibiya Park

Speaker: Mr Shintaro Sato, Fellow and General Manager, Quantum Research Laboratory, Fujitsu Laboratories, Fujitsu Limited

Title: ‘The future of quantum computing - from the frontline of cutting-edge technology

Dr Sato gave an update on quantum computing.

Although it was a very difficult topic, he started with the history of the development of conventional computers and explained in an easy-to-understand manner the principles and applications of quantum computing and its impact on our daily lives, answering questions from the participants in detail.

<Participant's comments>

‘It was good to hear concrete examples of the potential of quantum computing.’ (Participant A)

‘Dr Sato's presentation was easy to understand and interesting.’ (Participant B)

‘The lecturer's talk made me feel that “there are people who have dreams for the future and are working hard every day to realize them”.’ (Participant C)

'I could understand that this technology could significantly change all industries and our daily lives if it is implemented. It was a very stimulating lecture.’ (Participant D)

<Post-lecture get-together>

After the lecture, a reception (lunch) was held at the nearby restaurant Shunju Tsugihagi Hibiya. Participants interacted with each other in a friendly atmosphere, and further discussions and exchanges took place around the lecturer. Tim Wolf from the University of Minnesota Foundation, who was visiting Japan, also attended the event and deepened exchanges with the participants.

We felt it was very wonderful that our Minnesota colleagues are active in the field of quantum computing, a world-leading technology. We will continue to make the Minnesota Society a place that connects people through Minnesota.

Report of 2024 Day of Service Japan Minnesota　Association

This annual event brings together the University of Minnesota global community of alumni and friends for the opportunity to serve in their community.

Japan Minnesota Association has served in several ways, such as street cleaning activities or donations to the food bank, since 2017. This year, we cleaned the open space in front of Umegaoka Station, Odakyu Line in Tokyo. It was introduced by Mr. Kagiyama, who is himself a Carlson School graduate and serves as the director of the nonprofit corporation called The Association of Making a Beautiful Japan.

A total of six JMA participants joined the fifty participants from our partnered group, composed of pupils, former pupils, and their parents of Setagaya Ward Yamazaki Elementary School. Mr. Yamazaki and Mr. Ueda, leaders of the group, are their homeroom teachers. They divided the large group into teams, and we mainly picked weeds on the road surface.

In fact, the open space of Umegaoka Station is almost spotless, and the cleanliness is top-notch compared with other stations, as a result of the group's monthly cleaning.

After 30 minutes of cleaning, we gathered for a send-off to close. A participant from each group gave a short speech. Ms. Hatori, as a representative of Japan Minnesota Association, said that she felt refreshed and fulfilled doing something good for the community after the cleaning and would like to incorporate this experience into her daily life. Finally, Mr. Kagiyama said that cleaning could play a vital role in enhancing and promoting human skills in his closing address.

In fact, the children who participate in the cleaning are very mature. We are sure that they learn a lot through their monthly organized cleaning activities. We are also impressed by the fact that several former pupils attended the event. They are highly motivated to continue the activities and pass on their commitment to the next generation.

We enjoyed having breakfast together at McDonald's in front of the station and shared our feelings. Meanwhile, our partner group went to Yamazaki Elementary School to clean their toilets!

Celebrating Spring with the JMA (March 31st)

Greetings from the Japan Minnesota Association!

We recently had the pleasure of welcoming a group of students from the University of Minnesota to a springtime gathering on March 31st, 2024. While the cherry blossoms, the stars of Japan's traditional flower-viewing parties known as "Ohanami," hadn't quite reached their peak bloom yet, we were blessed with a beautiful sunny day – perfect for an outdoor picnic!

Ohanami is a centuries-old custom where people gather under blooming cherry trees to appreciate their ephemeral beauty. It's a joyous occasion to celebrate spring, socialize with friends and family, and enjoy delicious food and drinks.

Despite the blossoms not being in full swing, the atmosphere at our gathering was vibrant and full of cheer. We enjoyed delicious Japanese food and refreshing drinks, creating new friendships and reconnecting with University of Minnesota alumni in the area. With around 30 people in attendance, it was a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the strong connection between Minnesota and Japan.