J-Kaiwa
What is J-Kaiwa?
J-Kaiwa is a once-monthly gathering for JET returnees to practice their Japanese in the fun and relaxing atmosphere of a local pub. We meet on the first Friday of every month and speak only Japanese for one hour while drinking delicious NW microbrews. You do not have to be an ex-JET to attend, however.
Anyone interested in speaking Japanese and staying connected to Japan, including Japanese living in the Portland area, are welcome – and encouraged — to attend. In addition to being a great social and language-building event, it’s a terrific chance to network. Come on out and shake the dust off that nihongo!
To Nijikai or not – that is the question
In the past we have pre-announced a “nijikai,” the wonderful Japanese custom of an after party. Recently, however, people have been so engrossed in the conversation and catching up with friends that they have been staying later at the Lucky Lab and not going on to the nijikai. So, for now we won’t have an official nijikai but that shouldn’t stop you from rallying support at the main event for a second party if you are so inclined.
The events are hosted by one or both of your friendly J-Kaiwa Kaichos: Vicki Bridges and Scott Klein. Feel free to offer suggestions to them for improving the experience. And just because it is in a pub doesn’t mean you have to drink. The only obligation is that you come and enjoy yourselves in this relaxed setting with J-Kaiwa regulars and hopefully make some new friends.
Here is the important info:
January 2012 (Happy New Year!):
When: Friday, January 6th, 2012, 7–9:00 p.m.
Where: Lucky Lab Brew Pub on Hawthorne (915 SE Hawthorne Blvd)
Nijikai: ??
February:
When: Friday, February 3rd, 2012, 7–9:00 p.m.
Where: Lucky Lab Brew Pub on Hawthorne (915 SE Hawthorne Blvd)
Nijikai: ??
March:
When: Friday, March 2nd, 2012, 7–9:00 p.m.
Where: Lucky Lab Brew Pub on Hawthorne (915 SE Hawthorne Blvd)
Nijikai: ??
WHO: JETAA members, JET Programme returnees, Japanese friends and Nihongo speakers of all levels.
WHY: To see some old friends, make some new ones and maintain that connection to Japan
COST: It’s free to join! You are responsible for your own drinks and food but your friendly Kaichos may buy a pitcher or two to get the party started.
This is a great chance to catch up with old friends, meet new people, and keep up on your Japanese language. We hope you’ll join us and look forward to seeing you there! If you have any questions, email us at: jkaiwa@jetaaportland.com
J-Kaiwa de aimashou!!
Vicki Bridges & Scott Klein
J-Kaiwa Kaichos
Check out the latest pictures:
The Portland Chapter of JETAA (The JET Program Alumni Association) was created to serve the bonds of friendship developed by the program participants. JETAA’s purpose is to achieve, through its activities, a broader and deeper understanding between Japan and the other countries participating in the program.
