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The Consulate-General of Japan at Denver named 2 individuals and 1 organization as the Recipient of The Commendation of the Consul General of Japan
The Consulate-General of Japan at Denver named Mr. Seiji Tanaka, former President of Japanese Association of Colorado, Mr. Haruhisa Ymamoto, former owner of Denver Tofu company, and Ikebana International Chapter 66 as the Colorado recipients of The Commendation of the Consul General of Japan.
This award is a citation by the Consul General of Japan and is presented to honor the respected citizens and organizations who have made exceptional contributions in areas, such as development of mutual understanding and friendly ties between nations, the promotion of international cooperation in economic relations, the encouragement of cultural exchange, and other various activities which enhance the relationship of our two countries.
Mr. Seiji Tanaka, a longtime leader of Japanese Association of Colorado and served its president from 2001-2003 and 2008-2010, has been instrumental in the development of the Japanese American community. He also has been serving to conserve and pass down the history and legacy of Japanese American community.
Mr. Haruhisa Yamamoto, former owner of Denver Tofu Company, has contributed greatly in promoting Japanese foods and its food culture in Colorado. For the 40 years since he became owner of Denver Tofu Company in 1973, he has made great efforts to popularize healthy Japanese food culture through bringing Japanese foods to the kitchens and homes of the people of Colorado.
Ikebana International Chapter 66, one of 69 branches of Ikebana International in the United States, has contributed greatly in enhancing mutual understanding, friendship, and goodwill between Japan and Denver and Northern Colorado for 50 years since its establishment through introduction of ikebana and other Japanese culture. Under the motto of “Friendship through Flowers”, major Ikebana schools and individuals participate in Ikebana International Chapter 66 and have been striving to promote Japanese culture together.