On August 27th, Emiko Moore spoke to three different classes at the University of Cincinnati about our playground project. She would like to thank professors Mikiko Hirayama, Gergana Ivanova, and Junko Markovic for inviting her to come speak. She enjoyed engaging with the students and hearing their thoughts and ideas.

Domo Arigatou Gozaimasu

On August 25th, Ceramic artist Ikuhiko Shibata gave an interesting, and often humorous, lecture at the Cincinnati Art Museum. Pictures are of the reception following his presentation. We are incredibly grateful for all the beautiful tea cups which signify Ishinomaki that he has made, and donated to our playground project while here in Cincinnati.

Here are the photos from the lecture.

Ishinomaki Playground Project attended the JACL annual potluck, a fun family event which is always open to the public. Entertainment by the Sakura Ladies Chorus with an especially moving song written after the tsunami, the Bon Odori (dance) for everyone to join, and the envigorating percussion sounds from the Cincinnati-Dayton Taiko. We love Taiko drums! 7th generation ceramic artist Ikuhiko Shibata had his teacups at this event.

Here are photos from the event.

Thank you to GE Aviation, P&G, Ethicon, and 5/3rd APAF groups for inviting the Ishinomaki Playground Project to participate in their annual picnic. Over 1,200 people attended this fun family event. You put together an impressive event! What a wonderful opportunity to talk with many about our project, and met some young and extremely talented origami experts. We may have to start some origami troops soon.

A special thanks to Hai Sam from GE Aviation for your interest and encouragement with our project as well as to Mei Wan Wong, Felicia Sanborn, and Ying Huang. And a big thank you to our hard working volunteers, Mary Winklejohn, Kierstin Griffin, Christy Lucas, and Devin Finnessy. You are the heart and soul of this project.

Here is a link to photos from the event.

Our Meet the Artist event at Hanamiya was fantastic!  Over 100 people turned out to support of our project and some of the cups sold out and have been put on special order.  A huge thank you to Steve and Helen Rindsberg for all of their work in getting this event organized and to Teruko and her family for being such wonderful hosts. The spread of food and drinks was awesome. Thank you also to volunteers Mary Winklejohn, Stacey Finnessey, Christine Lucas & Kierstin Griffin for all your help.

Thank you to everyone who came out and bought pieces and donated to our project. Your support is appreciated!.

Finally, a special thank you goes to Ikuhiko Shibata, whose incredible ceramic work made this event possible. Your compassion and amazing artistic skill is appreciated so much. Thank you!

Photos of the event are located here.