Message from Consul General Ito

 

Greetings.

 

We finally have more summery days. How is your summer going?

 

In the past month, numerous sporting events were held locally. In the international sporting arena, the victory of the Nadeshiko Japan at the FIFA’s World Cup was definitely the big highlight. On the same day as the Nadeshiko claimed its maiden title, here in British Columbia, another team of Japanese women also won the final softball game over the US at the Canadian Open Fastpitch International Championship.  And in field hockey, the Japanese women’s team also triumphed at the 4 Nation Classic later in July at UBC. I had the opportunity to meet with the female athletes from Japan and encouraged their success at the opening ceremonies. After witnessing the   women’s power, I feel that Japanese men need to step it up a little, as well.

 

At the end of last month, the conferment ceremony awarding the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Rays to Mr. William Moncrief was held in Cumberland.  The ceremony took place outside of Vancouver, our home base because the recipient and his guests were on Vancouver Island, and the people in the Cumberland Village wished to celebrate the occasion together in the community.  With approximately 200 attendees the ceremony went quite well and Mr. Moncrief was truly delighted. I was also pleased that through the event our government could show him much-deserved appreciation for his dedication over many years. Our staff members worked hard to coordinate this out-of-town ceremony.  I wish Mr. Moncrief all the best for his continued prosperity and good health.

 

Blessed with good weather, the Powell Street Festival on July 30 and 31 was attended by a great number of people.  I offer my best wishes for further success of the festival as a traditional Japanese event.

 

After the unsettled weather of July, I am hoping this month you will enjoy a beautiful summer season.

 

Hideki Ito
Consul General
August 13, 2011