Six Individuals Recognized for their Contributions to Japan-US Relations by the Consul General of Japan in Seattle
January, 22 2015
On January 22, the Consulate General of Japan in Seattle recognized six highly qualified individuals for their contributions to Japan-US relations. In a ceremony held during the New Year’s Reception at the Official Residence they were each awarded the Consul General’s Commendation. The recipients are as follows (in alphabetical order):
1. Dr. Charles Aanenson: CEO of Peace Winds America. In the wake of the Great East Japan Earthquake, Dr. Aanenson established a platform facilitating the reconstruction of fishing villages in Tohoku, and has been working continuously in this vein, and to promote disaster preparedness on both sides of the Pacific, ever since.
2. Mr. Nir Barnea: NOAA Marine Debris Program West Coast Coordinator. Mr. Barnea has been vital in coordinating agencies in the US, Canada, and Japan to respond to Japanese Tsunami Marine Debris. He has generated a collaborative and scientific approach, as well as developed a strong affinity for Japan.
3. Mr. Shinji Kokage: Senior Advisor to the Japan Business Association of Seattle. Mr. Kokage has been advancing Washington-Japan economic relations for many years, expanding Japanese business in the region and contributing to the success of prefectural missions to the Pacific Northwest.
4. Mr. Yoshiaki Minegishi: Lifetime Director of the Seattle Symphony. In addition to promoting Japanese culture through such annual efforts as Celebrate Asia with the Seattle Symphony, Mr. Minegishi has a long history of dedication to US-Japan relations, including his support of the Kizuna Project for Tohoku recovery.
5. Mr. Tom Sasaki: Former President of Japanese Community Service of Seattle. Beyond promoting US-Japan business relations, Mr. Sasaki has held many positions over the years, including Chair of the Japan-America Society, a board member of the Japanese Community and Cultural Center of Washington, and President of JCSS, though not all at the same time.
6. Mr. Mark Triplett: Senior Advisor at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. Mr. Triplett has become an invaluable resource to Japan in recent years, providing opportunities to learn from Hanford in response to the Fukushima incident, facilitating visits to the site, as well as giving lectures and briefing Diet members on trips to Japan.