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2013 National Day Reception (December 9, 2013)
Consul-General Ono gave greetings and remarks.
Denver Mayor Michael Hancock ecpressed congratulations for the celebration of Japan's National Day and the Emperor's birthday.
'Kanpai' (A toast)
Recipients of Japanese government awards in 2013 included, from left; The Colorado Japanese Language Education Association (Mrs. Kaoru SLOTSVE), Dr. Jeanette MISAKA, Mr. Ronald OTSUKA, Mr. Isao KAMITANI, Mr. Paul MARUYAMA,
The 2013 National Day reception had a wonderful turnout.
Ikebana by Sogetsu School (Japanese flower arrangement)
On Monday, December 9, 2012 at 6:00 pm, Consul-General and Mrs. Ono hosted the 2013 National Day Reception at a downtown Denver hotel, in commemoration of the birthday of His Imperial Majesty the Emperor of Japan. Despite the cold weather, approximately 350 guests attended the occasion, including Mr. John Suthers, Attorney General of the State of Colorado; Denver Mayor Michael Hancock; General Victor Renuart, Jr., former commander of NORAD, and several other metro area mayors from Golden, Federal Heights, Cherry Hills Village and Greenwood Village.
Following a greeting and opening remarks from Consul-General Ono, Denver Mayor Hancock offered his remarks as the guest speaker, expressing congratulations for the birthday of His Imperial Majesty and his high expectations for a growing relationship of both friendship exchange and economic linkage between Denver and Japan, based on the successful progress of the Denver-Tokyo non-stop flight. A reading of a proclamation issued by Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper followed, which emphasized the strong will for further enhancement of the mutual relationship and development of human exchange between Japan and Colorado.
To conclude the formalities Deputy Consul-General Yamaguchi introduced, to deserved applause, this year's local recipients of Japanese government awards within the Denver consulate's 4-state jurisdiction. Several awards were conferred this year, including two Imperial Decorations as well as the Commendation of the Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the Commendation of the Consul-General of Japan.
Along with beautiful Ikebana arranged by members of Ikebana International on display at the venue, the Consulate provided a PR booth with brochures and a DVD playing to introduce Japan for guests, and the Japan National Tourism Organization Los Angeles Office prepared a booth to distribute tourism brochures and travel advice. In addition, eight locally active Japanese firms etc. also prepared booths to show their products, technology and services, taking the opportunity to display the attractiveness of Japanese brands.
