ACCJ Names Volunteers, Leaders of the Year, 2006

2006-12-13: The ACCJ Board of Governors has chosen outstanding committee leaders and members who through their actions during 2006 especially exemplified ACCJ spirit and volunteerism. ACCJ President Charles D. Lake II and ACCJ Chair Debbie Howard presented certificates of appreciation commemorating the achievements of the honorees as part of the agenda at the December monthly Leadership Forum of ACCJ committee leaders. A party will be held for the honorees as well.

(top to bottom, left to right) Dominic Carter with ACCJ Chair Debbie Howard and President Charles D. Lake II, Jim Weisser, Grant Tanabe, Andrew Conrad, Andrew Silberman, German Saa, Betsy Yoshioka, Patricia Bader-Johnston and Barry Bergmann.

The ACCJ Volunteers and Leaders of the Year 2006 are:

• Patricia Bader-Johnston, Leader of the Year 2006, for her leadership in the ACCJ's successful CSR initiative in 2006.
• Barry Bergmann, Leader of the Year 2006, for leading the 2006 Charity Crystal Ball to record-breaking success.
• Dominic Carter, Leader of the Year 2006, for monitoring and helping to improve member satisfaction through the development and implementation of the ACCJ Event Survey.
• Andrew Conrad, Leader of the Year 2006, for working on the ACCJ's Business White Paper and for counsel and management in resolving internal issues that ensured a much healthier organization going forward.
• Kojiro Dan, Volunteer of the Year 2006, for making the Kansai Chapter's first ever charity walkathon a resounding success.
• Shoko Kimijima, Volunteer of the Year 2006, for working on the Labor Mobility Task Force's many initiatives, including two major Viewpoints, a key section of the Business White Paper, advocacy objectives, and monitoring developments in the MHLW Advisory Council.
• German Saa, Volunteer of the Year 2006, for raising Crystal Ball and Crystal Charity Ball prize contributions year after year for the past seven years.
• Jonathan Schuman, Leader of the Year 2006, for proactively conceiving, executing and delivering useful (as evidenced by their popularity) programs across the financial services field.
• Erik Sedlak, Leader of the Year 2006, for extensive work in researching, drafting and finalizing numerous Viewpoints and other policy papers related to legal system and human resources infrastructure in Japan, and expanding the contributions of the Legal Services Committee.
• Andrew Silberman, Leader of the Year 2006, for effective enthusiastic leadership through the continued success of Meet & Greets, Nomu-nication, and other programs.
• Grant Tanabe, Leader of the Year 2006, for assisting the CSR Task Force, supporting the Business White Paper and BWP press conference, and working with the ACCJ External Affairs department on the Diet Door Knock.
• Jim Weisser, Leader of the Year 2006, for taking on and developing the audiocasting pilot initiative - a model for taking action on an innovative idea.
• Betsy Yoshioka, Leader of the Year 2006, for initiating and maintaining the continuation of the skills building workshops which have proven to be winners with ACCJ members.

2006 ACCJ Charity Crystal Ball Raises Record 16,826,013 yen for Charity at "Night of Magic"

2006-12-03: ACCJ members and guests enjoyed the biggest, most fabulous ACCJ Charity Crystal Ball ever, while exceeding the previous ACCJ record in fund raising by more than 3 million yen, well past the target of 15 million. The party of 500 were met by a beguiling band of merry magicians and jugglers provided by Bunkyo-ku Kijyutsukai and Tokyo Kijyutsukai, whose enchantments reminded all that anything truly is possible. The ever popular and swinging Mike Price Orchestra, followed by the never-below-110% Little Sister Band, ensured that far more calories were spent for the evening than consumed, despite the sumptuous five course dinner, wine, and unlimited spirits provided by the Hotel New Otani.

The Charity Crystal Ball is the evolution of a long tradition at the ACCJ of holding the season's not-to-miss gala event, which mixes in the charity component to channel the gratitude of ACCJ members into the community. Financial donations in excess of costs are given to charity. The Community Service Advisory Council of the ACCJ Board of Governors selected the charities below as the principle beneficiaries, donating 3 million yen to each, recognizing that they are well-managed and meet worthy needs in the community:

• Second Harvest Japan
• Polaris Project
• The Tyler Foundation for childhood cancer
• YMCA Challenged Children's Program
• The ACCJ Homeless Fund

The ACCJ would like to thank the following sponsors for their generosity and support of the "Night of Magic":

Sorcerer! 2,000,000 yen

Genie! 1,000,000 yen

Wizard! 500,000 yen

Psychic! 100,000 yen

ACCJ Elects Charles D. Lake II President to Lead the Chamber Again in 2007

2006-12-05: 2007 Board of Governors elected.

November 2006

ACCJ's 11th "Diet Doorknock" a Huge Success

2006-11-17: Led by ACCJ President Charles Lake, the 11th annual Diet Doorknock was held from November 14 to 16. During these three days, more than 65 ACCJ members met with nearly 85 senior Japanese policy makers, a record number since the inception of the Doorknock. In their meetings with Diet members, the ACCJ presented its newly released Business White Paper and publication on corporate social responsibility (CSR), this year's two primary pillars of the ACCJ.

Read the press release in English and Japanese.

ACCJ Releases the "ACCJ Business White Paper: 'Working Together, Winning Together'"

2006-11-09: The American Chamber of Commerce in Japan (ACCJ) is pleased to announce the release of the "ACCJ Business White Paper: 'Working Together, Winning Together.'"

The ACCJ Business White Paper identifies structural measures in various areas that, if taken, would contribute to sustained economic growth and innovation and also attract more FDI in line with the Japanese government's stated strategy.

To obtain a copy, please fax in an order form.

Meet & Greet at Meiji Kinenkan

2006-11-09: The Membership Relations Committee and the ACCJ proudly presented the last Meet & Greet of the year at Meiji Kinenkan, with over 200 people in attendance. The event gathered members and guests from numerous industries and business backgrounds and provided an opportunity to mingle over buffet and drinks. It was also a perfect autumn night to enjoy Meiji Kinenkan's renowned 120 year-old architecture and famously expansive garden with exquisitely trimmed pine trees.

The evening's Diamond sponsors included Ashley Associates Ltd., whose prize was theater tickets to a Frankenstein performance, and Regus Japan K.K, whose prize was the use of a virtual office at their Shinjuku or Shibuya locations. Combined with a Blue Topaz-level prize of a hotel stay in Taipei, United Airlines kindly donated two business-class air tickets to Taipei, which was presented as the Grand prize for the evening.

Please look forward to next year's Meet & Greets!

Pitching Across Borders

2006-11-02: The ACCJ welcomed Bob Dupuy, President and COO of Major League Baseball (MLB), Gene Orza, COO of MLB Players Association, and Paul Achey, the Senior VP of the International Business Operation for a panel discussion on the "Business of Professional Baseball." Speakers were also accompanied by New York Yankees pitcher, Mike Myers, as well as Milwaukee Brewers pitcher, Chris Capuano, and Robert Whiting, whose works, amongst many other best sellers include "The Samurai Way of Baseball: the Impact of Ichiro and the New Wave From Japan." Questions were led by the Senior Director of Reuters, Daniel Sloan.

Ambassadors of Baseball. From Left to Right: Robert Whiting, Chris Capuano, Mike Myers, Gene Orza, Paul Achey, Bob Dupuy, and moderated by Daniel Sloan.

Panelists addressed the enthusiastic ACCJ audience on the business opportunities lying in the rapidly growing Asian baseball markets. Describing Japanese teams as an "advertising vehicle" for corporations, panelists were also able to provide a comparative view of the infrastructural differences in American and Japanese baseball. At the same time, they raised the issue of the growing number of athletes playing for a foreign team, and how this was integrating the various markets. The event seemed to have passed in the blink of an eye, and ACCJ members and guests could be seen eagerly taking pictures with the panelists after the discussion.

October 2006

Beyond Good Intentions: Creating Value With Values

2006-10-27: Dean Ira Jackson, from the Drucker School of Management at Claremont Graduate University, spoke to ACCJ members and guests on the growing importance of CSR in managing globally profitable companies. In exploring the possibilities of values-based management, Jackson explained how a positive reputation could be a source of competitive advantage, citing examples such as Starbucks' profit sharing program for all employees.

Ira Jackson.

Speaking also from his personal experience at Bank Boston, he illustrated how the ability to view government measures, such as the CRA (Corporate Reinvestment Act), as not a requirement but an opportunity, has led to profitability. However, while he is a strong advocate of socially responsible management, he warned that it was not a replacement for "the basics."

Attendees, who were already familiar with the subject through the ACCJ・ｽs recent publication of "Conscientious Commerce," were actively involved in the proceeding Q&A session, where they eagerly shared their views on how to propagate CSR in their respective organizations.

Emails & Blogs: Evidence has Gone Digital

2006-10-26: Philip M. Berkowitz, Partner and Head of the International Employment Law Practice Team at Nixon Peabody LLP, and George Pierce, the Senior Vice President and General Counsel at Toyota Tsusho America Inc., gave a fascinating presentation on the legal risks involved with distributing digital documents.

Philip M. Berkowitz.

In comparison to printed material, there is a definite tendency to treat emails and blogs with less care. After hours of staring into the screen, we forget that our emails are being sent to a person, and not a machine. The speakers reminded attendees that a growing number of such online communication records are proving to be a "treasure trove of evidence," and discussed the ways of prudence at length.

George A. Pierce.

1 + 1 Equals More Than 2

2006-10-25: Lieutenant General Bruce A. Wright gave a timely address to ACCJ members and guests at the Westin Hotel on the U.S.-Japan security relationship, in light of the recent nuclear tests announced by North Korea. General Wright, who is the Commander of both the U.S. Forces in Japan and the 5th Air Force at the Yokota Air Base, emphasized the importance of the partnership between the United States and Japan in managing the security situation.

Lieutenant General Bruce A. Wright.

Drawing attention to the alliance between the two countries, he explained to attendees how the security situation was maintained through instruments of cooperation such as the "U.S. - Japan Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security" and continued "Two-plus-two" meetings. The General was met with enthusiastic applause as he concluded his speech on just why the US-Japan partnership "equaled much more than two."

Key Events for the Financial Markets: 10 Predictions for 2007

2006-10-24: Dave Kansas, Money & Investing Editor of the Wall Street Journal, offered 10 predictions for 2007 to ACCJ members and guests. He began the session by highlighting recent market movements such as the growing presence of hedge funds in reaction to the tightening of U.S. market regulations, and the stabilizing of world energy prices.

David W. Kansas, editor of The Wall Street Journal's Money & Investing section.

Based on those economic trends, he expressed confidence in the markets, stating that unlike the stock rally back in the 90's, there was a lack of "irrational exuberance" this time around. Also, he anticipates a continuing decline in the Japanese Yen on condition that the United States does not lower its current interest rates. His forecasts for 2007 are as follows:

1. Oil to $40/barrel in 12 months

2. U.S. Real Estate Slows/No Bust

3. U.S. Consumer Remains strong

4. Federal Reserve Stands Pat in 2007

5. Republicans Hold Congress

6. U.S. Investors Keep Pouring Money Overseas

7. NYSE links with Major Asian Market

8. Private Equity Boom in Asia Accelerates

9. GM, Ford recover smartly in 2007

10. Hillary Clinton declines to run for president

In regard to the reliability of these predictions, he replied good naturedly "40~50% . . . If you choose the right half, you're OK."

1st Annual ACCJ Kansai Chapter Walk-A-Thon

2006-10-01: The ACCJ Kansai Chapter would like to thank the many, many businesses, organizations and individuals whose sponsorship and participation made the first-ever ACCJ Kansai Chapter Walk-A-Thon a resounding success. There is already a buzz about holding the event again next year!

The light rain and cloudy skies didn't damper anyone's spirits or enthusiasm for the first-ever ACCJ Kansai Chapter Walk-A-Thon as volunteers showed up long before 8:00 a.m. in preparation for the 10:00 a.m. start time. With the opening ceremony commencing at 11:00 a.m., the stage was star-studded with appearances by Osaka's Mayor Seki, American Consul General Daniel Russel, Director General of Kobe City Yoshinobu Machimoto, International Affairs Promotion Director of Kyoto City Takashi Yasui, Director General of Hyogo Prefecture Osamu Niwa, Executive Director for FDI of Osaka Prefecture Yutaka Ueda, ACCJ Executive Director Sam Kidder, ACCJ Vice President Michael Bobrove, ACCJ Governor Ravi Chaturvedi, and ACCJ Kansai Community Service Committee Chair Kiran Sethi.

After a Japanese-style kagami-biraki and "kampai" by ACCJ Governor and P&G Japan President, Ravi Chaturvedi, an American-style balloon sendoff signaled the start of the 4.0 km Walk-A-Thon that circled the boardwalk area of HAT Kobe, which is home to newly built condominiums, the Hyogo Prefecture Art Museum, and the Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake Museum.

In total, over 50 businesses, 12 governmental and NGO agencies, 3 international schools and approximately 800 individual participants came together for an early Fall day on Kobe's beautifully rebuilt shoreline.

Final preparations are made on the morning of the Walk-A-Thon.

Local government officials and the ACCJ leadership enjoy breaking glass to kickoff the 1st ever ACCJ Kansai Chapter Walk-A-Thon.

Despite the unfavorable weather, many VIPs came out to drink some freshly brewed sake in recognition of the 2006 Walk-A-Thon.

(left to right) ACCJ Executive Director Sam Kidder, Osaka City Mayor Junichi Seki, American Consul General Daniel Russel, ACCJ Kansai Community Service Committee Chair Kiran Sethi, ACCJ Vice President Michael Bobrove, ACCJ Governor Ravi Chaturvedi, Osaka Prefecture Executive Director for FDI Yutaka Ueda, Hyogo Prefecture Director General Osamu Niwa, Kobe City Director General Yoshinobu Machimoto, and Kyoto City International Affairs Promotion Director Takashi Yasui pose for one final snapshot before the commencement of the walk.

Participants take a stroll on the vast boardwalk in HAT Kobe.

The weather could not dampen the Walk-A-Thon's festive atmosphere.

Many mingle while visiting the various sponsor and food booths at the 2006 Walk-A-Thon.

September 2006

The 4th Annual North America - Europe Golf Challenge in Japan

2006-09-29: The 4th Annual North America - Europe Golf Challenge in Japan ("The DaimlerChrysler Cup") was held on Friday, September 29, in which 144 players participated. The North American team edged out the European team by .21 strokes to win the cup for the third successive year. Find out more about the tournament at: http://www.dccgolf-japan.com/index.html.

North America Team captain Robert Grondine, on right, receives trophy from Friedemann Bruehl, of DaimlerChrysler Japan

Symposium on Women in Financial Services

2006-09-28: The American Chamber of Commerce in Japan (ACCJ) recently celebrated its first ever "Women in Finance Symposium" much to the delight of over 300 enthusiastic and appreciative attendees. The five-hour event highlighted the ACCJ's commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR) while successfully promoting diversity and inclusion in the finance industry and emphasizing the importance of integrating women in today's workplace - particularly at the senior management level.

The event, held at the Westin Tokyo Hotel, included a keynote address from visiting Professor of International Relations at Bunkyo Gakuin University, Mitsuko Horiuchi, followed by three panel discussions covering the topics of myths about careers for women in the finance industry, professional advice for finding success in the industry and best practices for firms looking to encourage the career development of their female employees.

Mitsuko Horiuchi's speech (full text)
Debbie Howard's speech (full text)

While many of the panelists described personal struggles and accomplishments on their paths to professional success, they also shared practical advice and wisdom with the audience. Panelist Hidemi Kimura, a Fellow at the Research Institute of Economy, Trade and Industry, offered advice on balancing family life with professional ambitions: "Make your own decisions.... Follow your heart."

The event drew rave reviews from participants excited to support the professional development of women and eager to traverse institutionalized boundaries such as the corporate "glass ceiling" and lack of role models for talented, young female professionals.

As the last panel concluded its final remarks, attendees were ushered to the reception area where they enjoyed champagne, wine and other beverages as well as time to network and exchange business cards.

Thanks to strong sponsorship, the ACCJ was able to put on a high quality event at a very affordable cost. Our sponsors: (Gold Level): Citigroup, Lehman Brothers, Merrill Lynch Japan Securities Co., Ltd., Morgan Stanley, State Street Corporation, UBS Securities Japan Ltd,; (Bronze Level): Aflac, AIG Companies, The Hartford Financial Services Group.

(from left) Jonathan Schuman, ACCJ Financial Services Committee Co-Chair, Mitsuko Horiuchi, Visiting Professor of Bunkyo Gakuin University and former Assistant Director-General of the International Labour Organization (ILO), and Debbie Howard, ACCJ Chair.

(from left) Panelists Tomoko Ueda, Izumi Kobayashi, Ritsuko Nonomiya, and Panel Moderator Patricia Bader-Johnston.

(from left) Panelists Hidemi Kimura, Naoko Nemoto, Tami Ooka, and Panel Moderator Anna Stephenson.

(from left) Panelists Keiko Otsuki, Suzanne Price, Amy Nishida, and Panel Moderator Maureen Grewe.

(from left) Jonathan Schuman, ACCJ Financial Services Committee Co-Chair, Laura Younger, ACCJ Associate Director for Membership Services, Charles D. Lake II, ACCJ President, and Samuel H. Kidder, ACCJ Executive Director.

Nomu-nication: Craft Beer Tasting @ Prudential

2006-09-08: A sold-out event, the Membership Relations Committee's "Nomu-nication: Craft Beer Tasting" was hosted by Prudential Financial, Inc., on their 14th Floor Lounge. A warm welcome was addressed by Mr. Sammori, President of Prudential Life Insurance Co., Ltd. and Mr. Kurashige, President of Gibraltar Life Insurance Co., Ltd. The ACCJ was also honored to have Brig. Gen. Joseph M. Reheiser, Vice Commander, 5th Air Force, Yokota Air Base, Japan.

Mr. Sammori, President of Prudential Life Insurance Co., Ltd.

Brig. Gen. Joseph M. Reheiser, Vice Commander, 5th Air Force, Yokota Air Base, Japan.

The beer provided for the evening was craft-brew beers of Kamakura Beer, Tama Brewery and Yoho Brewing. Nine different beers were served, with some appetizers that included "shirasu" that was caught in Kamakura Bat that morning.

The evening also helped attendees to network, develop relationships, and exchange information in a friendlier, cozy setting.

ACCJ Hosts Distinguished Panelists on Corporate Social Responsibility

2006-09-07: Marking a milestone in the ACCJ's Corporate Social Responsibility initiative for 2006, over 140 ACCJ members and their guests attended the CSR Panel Symposium held at the Tokyo American Club, where themes such as transparency, governance, stakeholder expectations and compliance were interwoven with diversity, charitable contributions and the promotion of women in management -- all part of the broad fabric known as "CSR."

(from left) Panelists: Charles Lake, President, American Chamber of Commerce in Japan, and Vice Chairman, Aflac Japan; Kakutaro Kitashiro, Chairman, Keizai Doyukai, and Chairman of the Board, IBM Japan, Ltd.; Richard Collasse, Chairman, European Business Council, and President, Chanel K.K.

Through an interactive and open panel discussion that included questions and input from the audience, the importance of socially responsible practices in corporations as well as small businesses was discussed and highlighted with examples ranging from company ideals to institutional weaknesses.

Hosted by ACCJ Vice President and Chair of the CSR Task Force Kumi Sato, the symposium engaged ACCJ President and Vice Chairman of AFLAC Japan Charles D. Lake II, IBM Japan Chairman and Chairman of Keizai Doyukai Kakutaro Kitashiro, and Chairman of the European Business Council (EBC) and President of Chanel KK Richard Collasse, to achieve quite literally a global perspective on the increasingly critical role of socially responsible behavior in business today.

Mr. Kitashiro emphasized Japan's need to implement stronger CSR practices via the promotion of women in business, better recognition of "work-life balance" and greater awareness among small and medium size firms of their CSR role and opportunity. He shared the results of a survey series on CSR begun by Keizai Doyukai in 2003. Mr. Lake also shared the results of a 2006 survey conducted by the ACCJ and highlighted the history and variety of approaches to CSR undertaken by American businesses in Japan. Mr. Collasse provided a European counterbalance, noting in particular the tradition of priority given to employees by corporations in Europe.

The event was timed to coincide with the the release of the CSR Task Force publication, "Conscientious Commerce: Exploring the Nature and Scope of Corporate Social Responsibility," which highlights the range and depth of ACCJ members' CSR activities and helps explain the broad nature of CSR and where it is headed.

CSR Publication: "Conscientious Commerce - Exploring the Nature and Scope of Corporate Social Responsibility"

2006-09-07: The American Chamber of Commerce in Japan (ACCJ) today released its first publication on corporate social responsibility (CSR) titled, "Conscientious Commerce - Exploring the Nature and Scope of Corporate Social Responsibility." The publication highlights the range and depth of our members' CSR activities and helps explain the broad nature of CSR and where it is headed.

Kansai Chapter's Walk-A-Thon

2006-09-04: Kansai Walkathon Gains Momentum Toward Oct. 1 Start.
What Better Way To Spend A Sunday Afternoon?
SeekJapan tells all.

For more information, click below.

 

Distinguished Speakers on Bilateral Economic Integration, Trade & Investment
Case for Working Together, Winning Together

2006-09-05: Dr. Haruo Shimada, professor of economics at Keio University and Sidney Taurel, Chairman and CEO of Eli Lilly and Company spoke to an audience of more than 100 members and guests on the need to deepen U.S.-Japanese economic integrationa topic that has recently found increased emphasis on the ACCJ agenda with the recent publication of an economic integration Viewpoint--and remove constraints in specific sectors that remain cripplingly closed. Although particular emphasis was placed upon the current situation of the Japanese pharmaceutical industry, a broader picture of the bilateral relationship emerged as the lectures unfolded.

Colorful descriptions of Japanese politics by Shimada and humorous culinary metaphors interlacing Taurel's talk added verve to discussions that culminated with Taurel's exposition on how free trade and economic integration encourage innovation and his personal commitment to resist protectionist temptations.

The lectures inspired intense questions from the audience. Many questions were raised as to whether Japan could promote further economic integration with the United States without alienating Asian neighbors. In response, both speakers argued that deeper U.S.-Japan relations would be compatible and even promote Asian regional prosperity.

August 2006

ACCJ Sponsors 13th Japan Market Expansion Competition
Call for Competitors!

First place in the JMEC 12 was awarded to VF Corporation Team. Each team member was awarded an HP Compaq notebook computer presented by Hewlett-Packard Japan.

2006-08-25: JMEC is a business training program sponsored by eleven foreign Chambers of Commerce in Japan. The purpose of the program is to strengthen the skills of young business executives while fostering the development of foreign businesses in Japan.

The program, to be held in November, is centered on a competition to write the best business plan for client companies. It matches the desire of young executives to learn about doing business in Japan with the needs of foreign companies to prepare detailed business plans for their products and services in the Japanese market.

To date, JMEC has graduated 589 individuals from 17 different nations and has prepared business plans for 110 companies. The program is open to all English speaking individuals working in Japan.

For more information and to find out how to qualify and compete, visit http://www.jmec.gr.jp.

July 2006

Cabinet Secretariat on Intellectual Property Strategy In Japan

2006-07-25: Modeled after a program developed during the Reagan administration, Japan started its IP program under Prime Minister Koizumi in 2002. Professor Sadahiro Sugita, Counselor to the IP Strategy Headquarters, Cabinet Secretariat, calls this start the first phase, and shared with ACCJ members and guests his views on the second.

Under the first phase, the IP strategy team established an IP High Court, IP courses at universities, and 22 IP related laws. Measures were taken against counterfeits and pirated goods.

Sadahiro Sugita

Patent examinations and media content issues were expedited. The second phase aims to improve effectiveness, strengthen international competitiveness, and reform current practices to solve new problems. "We would like to double the number of IP experts from 60,000 to 120,000 and improve the quality of experts," said Sugita.

India's Growth: Key Drivers and Risks

2006-07-20: ACCJ's Asia Business Committee invited Mr. R. Ravimohan, CEO of CRISIL Limited, a leading credit rating company in India, to share his opinion on India's growing economy in comparison with other countries and what will be long term drivers and key risks. He views the risks in energy vulnerability and infrastructure restraints as key, but his optimism and enthusiasm for India's prospects were palpable. He said, "Much of my own optimism stems from age demographics," citing a youthful population that will soon become the backbone of a skilled workforce. The audience showered questions on him about political risks, solutions in the IT industry, micro lending, and more. He ended by saying, "The opportunity is real and the risks can be addressed."

Ravimohan

LOHAS - The Emergence of A Lifestyle Market In Japan

2006-07-18: What is the hottest new buzzword in marketing in Japan right now?

According to Peter David Pedersen, CEO of E-Square Inc., you probably answered "LOHAS," which stands for "Lifestyles of Health and Sustainability." He reports that while in February of 2005 Google returned only a few thousand hits for the term, by February of 2006 when he last checked, it was near 2.5 million hits (as of this writing, Google shows 2.65 million).

Pedersen is rapidly ascending as the face of LOHAS in Japan, and shared the results of extensive demographic research his company has done on the subject with ACCJ members and guests. He estimates that 40% of the Japanese population recognizes the term, compared to less than 5% in the U.S., where the term was invented.

Pedersen believes one of the reasons LOHAS is catching on so well in Japan at the consumer level is the readiness of Japanese consumers to address the big ecological

Peter David Pedersen

and sustainability questions from the "inside out," starting with what can be done at the individual level no matter how small, rather than feeling compelled to come up with comprehensive solutions to the world's ills.

The phenomenon has grown to encompass virtually every industry, from bicycles to banking. In answer to the question, "Is LOHAS just another fad?" Pedersen said, "More important than the word (LOHAS) is the underlying change in values," which he believes will permanently change marketing strategies.

First Ever Chinzan-so Meet & Greet an Elegant Affair

2006-07-07: For the first time, ACCJ held its exclusive Meet and Greet networking event at the opulent Four Seasons Hotel, which is beautifully situated in the midst of the 100-year old, breathtaking Chinzan-so gardens. The mild summer night was perfect for members and guests to stroll through the serene gardens, which are brilliantly lit by fireflies, flowing with waterfalls and ornamental ponds, and decorated with a wide variety of stone monuments, shrines, and artifacts, most notably, the 1000-year-old pagoda. It was the perfect luxurious refuge from the rollercoaster-pace urban madness we like to call Tokyo.

Inside, everyone enjoyed a delicious meal that included pasta cooked in front of your eyes, free tastings of prize-winning scotches, and a wide selection of desserts. Over fine cuisine and drinks, people jovially conversed with old friends and made new ones, while others enjoyed the talents of a close-up magician. Members and guests also entered a raffle to win one of many great prizes, such as a one-day usage of Kikyo at Regus Shinjuku Park Tower or two days at Shibuya Mark City, provided by Regus Japan K.K., bottles of Suntory Yamazaki, 12 and 18 years old, and a digital camera.

One guest thoughtfully commented, "I am impressed at the balance in the gender ratio." It was an elegant, smashing hit of a night. Another guest said, "two-thumbs way up!"

ACCJ Welcomes Prime Minister Koizumi and President Bush agreement to deepen the mutually-beneficial bilateral economic relationship

2006-07-03: View the press release in English and Japanese.

 

June 2006

Learning to Change

2006-06-28: David Meredith, President of Bates Asia Japan, presented to ACCJ members and guests his insights on how to detect important changes early, identifying the "ripples before they turn into waves to take advantage of change." His "Change Point Planning" methodology focuses on the social, political, and cultural shifts that affect how consumers think, behave and make decisions. Many examples were drawn from the rapid ascendancy of the female consumer and businessperson.

"At the end of 2005 there were about 25,000 yoga gyms," said Meredith, "and by 2007, there will be 70,000."

David Meredieth, President of Bates Asia Japan

Japan Direct Marketing Association Activity and Trends

2006-06-23: The Japan Direct Marketing Association (JADMA) was founded 23 years ago and has grown in stature to the point where, according to Masayuki Kakio, Director and Senior Researcher of JADMA, an average of ten companies a month apply to JADMA for the use of the JADMA logo mark to gain the consumers' confidence and trust in their product. "In fact," Kakio boasted, "in local areas, unless businesses have obtained JADMA membership, they are not allowed to advertise there."

Masayuki Kakio, Director and Senior Researcher of JADMA

Increasingly, newcomers to the field are often augmenting existing business with a direct marketing approach, and Kakio provided several illustrations. Large companies are selling directly to the public more and more to reduce expense and take advantage of the public's increasing openness to the approach.

Kakio, confident that "direct marketing will become the leader of the retail industry," noted that MBA courses are being offered on the subject at top universities.

Sustained Innovation: Knowledge-based Leadership The P&G Way

2006-06-22: Ravi Chaturvedi, President of P&G Far East, Inc., shared his thought-provoking and personally time-tested beliefs on leadership with ACCJ members and guests. Though he noted that there is a form of leadership that best suits each person, modestly adding that he was only sharing what works for him, he gave much to the audience of over one hundred to take away.

In lieu of the hierarchical system of management, most commonly used in Japan, P&G has adopted "knowledge-based leadership." Accordingly, the role of the leader is to "make work more pleasurable and fitting to the individual's aspirations so that he or

she wants to wake up in the morning and come to work," said Chaturvedi. As a leader, he sets expectations, the vision, and direction, but makes employees feel like they can disagree. He said, "People cannot get committed until they have had the chance to disagree." Employees who can think for themselves in this way promote trust, sensible risk-taking, and consequently, a fun and fulfilling environment.

Opera & Jazz at the 12th Annual Joint Chamber Summer Networking Cocktail Party

2006-06-16: The annual Joint Chamber networking cocktail party was attended by some 150 ACCJ members plus many members from the CCCJ, Tokyo Chamber of Commerce, and the Australian Chamber of Commerce in Japan. Some women wore kimonos, which elegantly spiced up the international atmosphere of the party. "It makes it easier to start a conversation," said one of the kimono-wearers.

A Little Surpise
Hosted by the CCCJ at the Canadian Embassy, guests were enjoying a multicultural array of foods, drinks, and live jazz music when suddenly, a banquet manager calling himself Alfred hopped up on stage and wowed the crowd with a beautiful aria from Italian opera. He said his friend had bet him 10,000 yen to sing in front of everyone, though the great applause he received from the crowd after he sang was worth even more. Later on, yet another waiter jumped up on stage, claiming that he needed the opportunity to win his 10,000 yen back. He deserved it and much more as to everyone's surprise, his singing brought all the romance of Italy right into the Canadian Embassy.

While Alfred and John were arguing over who was the better singer, a chef suddenly appeared on stage, apparently possessed by the ghost of Giuseppi Verdi. The two waiters joined the chef in song, and the trio's harmony filled the room with smiles, applause, and one lingering question--- "how did we have the luck to have three such talented singers on the catering staff?"

The question was answered when members and guests saw a flyer for an Australian entertainment group called "The Three Waiters" on their way out. This event surely was one of the most unforgettable networking parties.

Patent and Trade Secret Litigation and High Tech Ventures

2006-06-12: Professor Robert Kneller of the University of Tokyo's Research Center for Advanced Science and Technology spoke to ACCJ members and guests about the results of his research on patent infringement suits and their relationship to the environment for high-tech startups in Japan. He provided survey data on patent issuance in Japan and the U.S. and legal actions brought before the Tokyo District Court.

Kneller's research explored whether incumbents use IP protection to disadvantage startups and protect their investments in existing and emerging technologies or whether startups can truly use the courts to protect their interests and preserve their ability to innovate, seeking either "evidence that small high technology companies are not able to use IP litigation to defend core technology," or that they are "disproportionately subject to litigation by large companies."

He also discussed unfair competition law and non-compete covenants as possible barriers to people who may want to change jobs and join a startup, focusing on revisions to Japan's judicial procedures and Unfair Competition Prevention Act which occurred as recently as 2005, and the likely level of strictness in interpretation of non-disclosure clauses in cases of employee turnover.

ACCJ Bids Farewell to Executive Director Donald B. Westmore

See a video interview of Don Westmore.

2006-06-09: Celebrating eight years of superb service and leadership to the ACCJ, members and guests said farewell to Executive Director Don Westmore and his wife, Adrienne, in a last, roaring hurrah. The goodbyes were punctuated by plenty of laughter on an occasion for free roaming over an almost limitless field of fond memories.

In an elegant setting with an exquisite spread prepared by the Westin Hotel in Ebisu, emcee and ACCJ Vice President, Marc Fuoti, kicked off the night with a slideshow of photographs highlighting Westmore's career at the ACCJ, sprinkled liberally with a selection of his memorable quotes.

Former ACCJ President Debbie Howard and ACCJ President Charles Lake shared their memories with the guests and presented a gift of contemporary art to the art-loving Westmore. An original portrait of Mr. Westmore was also presented to him by Vickie Paradise Green, publisher of the ACCJ Journal.

Past and current ACCJ presidents and officers, executive directors, former Persons of the Year, captains of industry, new and veteran members, and friends from every phase of Westmore's illustrious ACCJ career were all on hand for the party.

The festivities were topped off with a live band playing all of Don's favorite tunes and a delectable meal specially prepared for this night by the Westin's head chef.

"Don has contributed substantially to the U.S.-Japan relationship and will be deeply missed," said President Lake. Mr. Westmore received a lifetime honorary ACCJ membership from the Board of Governors.

Washington D.C.
An Insider's View

2006-06-06: Former Governor of Oklahoma, Frank Keating, CEO of American Council of Life Insurers, gave ACCJ members and guests the inside scoop on what has been going on at Capitol Hill this past year. He touched upon Japan's privatization policy and its effects on the integration of Free Trade Agreements.

A significant portion of the discussion was given to upcoming elections in the U.S. "In D.C., 'it is the best of times, it is the worst of times,'" said Keating. Though the U.S. economy is strong, there is a huge

Frank Keating, CEO of American Council of Life Insurers and Former Governor of Oklahoma

deficit and a general feeling of distress. Most worrisomely, the parties are communicating very poorly among themselves when the nation is faced with the challenges of terrorism, volatile countries and their rule over oil, immigration, and lack of national savings. Keating said, "I am a citizen first and a politician second. I would hope as a citizen, after the election, that both parties are brought together."

Financial Ratio Analysis

2006-06-01: Jonathan Jacobs and Frederick Bird of Duff and Phelps provided ACCJ members and guests with insight into their techniques for ratio and trend analysis of publicly traded companies. Using many different companies as examples, they covered depreciation, amortization, cost of sales, measures of

Jonathan Jacobs (left) and Frederick Bird (right) of Duff and Phelps

profitability, ways to interpret income and cash flow statements, and more. At the heart of the discussion was how to compare two different companies using key ratios, and consideration of anticipated International Financial Reporting Standards in 2007-2008.

United Airlines Chairman, President And CEO, Glenn Tilton
"Issues and Opportunities in the Aviation Market"

2006-06-01: Glenn Tilton, United Airlines Chairman, CEO and President spoke to over three hundred ACCJ members and United Airlines guests about United Airlines' reconstruction program and the forthcoming regulatory changes in international airline carrier enterprises for a more open global market.

Three years ago, United Airlines was in need of major reconstruction and has owned up to the obligation under a $23 billion program with a "customer-centric strategy." Mr. Tilton said, "United has built a competitive platform for the future, but we still have much work to be done."

Tilton spoke in detail about regulatory changes he supports. Asia is the fastest growing market for airlines, and according to Tilton, airline carriers should be allowed the same freedom to compete that other large

Glenn Tilton, United Airlines Chairman, President and CEO

international enterprises have. He said that as markets open, there is still an uncertainty, but "the market should ultimately decide." One such change would be to get rid of restrictions on board membership to make it easier for foreigners to invest and own U.S. carriers.

Today, 25% of United's flights are deployed in Asia, and Narita International Airport is opening a new south wing. Expansion is clearly a present and future theme in the aviation market in Asia.

May 2006

Lights, Camera, Ouch!
Media Crisis Management For Financial Services Companies

2006-05-29: With lights shining and camera rolling, David Wagner of Gavin Anderson shot questions at ACCJ members and guests in a dynamic media training session, complete with playback and analysis. The replays were the perfect way to illustrate common mistakes and things to

David Wagner grills ACCJ guest volunteer Andrew Cefai on camera in a simulated crisis moment with the press.

consider, like what to wear (or not to wear), on-screen posture, body control, and generally how to maintain control when the paparazzi attacks. In this day of technology, you can't underestimate the impact of just a few seconds of recorded media.

This real-life experience engaged the audience on the importance of seemingly small things that could make or break a fragile situation and how to professionally handle and prepare for a crisis or controversy. Practice and preparation can help build confidence, eliminate error, and minimize negative impacts so that media crises can be prevented.

2006 ACCJ Spring Golf Tournament

2006-05-23: A combination of threatening weather and a great course made the ACCJ's 2006 Spring Golf Tournament at Tama Hills another exciting sporting success. Thanks to our generous sponsors all players walked away with at least one fantastic prize! Subsequent to the game, the official scores were distributed--a guaranteed way to keep the competitive fires stoked. A date for the next match has already been set: we meet on the green for the 4th North America - Europe Golf Challenge in Japan (DaimlerChrysler Cup), on Friday, September 29, at Atsugi Kokusai Country Club.

Members of "CRAFT," a group formed as a YMCA "Foreign Community Supporting Committee."
(front row from left) Ryan Dwyer, John Duley, Richard Ragains, Brent Reichow, Ted Miller (lowest gross score), Glen Sugimoto, Clarke Robertson, Bob Melson (second lowest net score), James Windsor
(back row from left) Mark Saft, Nick Masee, Anthony Guercio, Rainer Mager

Nomu-nication: Sake Tasting @ Shinsei Bank

2006-05-19: Over 150 people attended the Membership Relations Committee's "Nomunication: Sake Tasting" on the 20th floor of Shinsei Bank's Head Office. The evening included great night views, sake and food, and a warm personal welcome from Shinsei's Executive Vice President, Clark Graninger.

Local government representatives from seven prefectures and cities brought sake and food from their respective localities to the event. Although the competition was fierce among the various sakes from Yamagata-ken, Chiba-ken, Kyoto-shi, Gifu-ken, Hiroshima-ken, Fukuoka-shi and Kochi-ken, "Kidoizumi Kokin" from Chiba-ken was elected as the best tasting sake by the attendees.

The evening also helped build relationships between international business people and local governments and offered an opportunity for attendees to learn more about regional Japanese sake and food.

Thank you to ACCJ Member, Shinsei Bank, who hosted the party in the comfort and elegance of its Head Office.

"Kidoizumi Kokin" from Chiba-ken received the Best Tasting Sake Certificate.

(left to right) Gifu and Chiba.

(left to right) Kochi, Kyoto and Yamagata

(left to right) Fukuoka and Hiroshima.

Kanebo Cosmetics: Anatomy of a Restructuring

2006-05-18: Beginning his presentation with a light-hearted survey of the audience for representatives from rival cosmetics companies, Managing Director of the Industrial Revitalization Corporation of Japan (IRCJ), Kunihiko Yogo spoke to an audience of ACCJ members and guests on the restructuring and subsequent turnaround of Kanebo Cosmetics Inc.

Ethics In Business: Conscience vs. Greed

2006-05-15: Internationally renowned speakers Drs. Ned C. Hill and W. Steve Albrecht (Marriott School of Business, Brigham Young University) spoke to an audience of over 60 people on the need for ethical business practices in the corporate environment and the costs of unethical conduct by employees and company executives.


(left to right) Patricia Bader-Johnston (CCCJ Vice President and Vice-Chair of the ACCJ CSR Task Force), Dr. W. Steve Albrecht, Philip O'Neill (CCCJ President) and Dr. Ned C. Hill.

Dr. Hill spoke on the importance of business ethics and how companies can create an environment of honesty and integrity. "Employees are afraid to report unethical behaviour or believe that no action will be taken," he said. Pointing out the decline of ethics and the rise of laws governing ethics in the U.S., Dr. Hill encouraged the audience to practice strong ethical leadership. "We can do one of three things: nothing, increase the legal constraints or increase ethical behaviour."

An expert witness in over 30 major fraud cases, Dr. Albrecht highlighted several types of fraudulent practices and how the Sarbanes-Oxley Act aims to reduce white-collar crime. Stressing the need for "internal controls" and good corporate governance, Dr. Albrecht said, "the top five bankruptcies in the U.S. were caused by ethical problems, destroying investors You cannot afford to have corruption in your company."