This summer we often wondered and used these words as a greeting to each other, “Where is the summer?”  We in the NW have been so fortunate to have such cool weather for so long compared to other parts of the world where people have suffered from the heat, wild fires and floods.  Our hearts go to those who have suffered so much.

During the summer some of our Executive Committee members worked hard planning for the up-coming year’s programs, collecting the membership dues, making a new budget, our new directory and so on.   Thank you very much.  Because of you, we can start the fiscal year smoothly and with lots of excitement.
Also, I personally want to thank the committee chairpersons who agreed to serve another year to help me.  Your commitment will strongly unite our Chapter.

I am happy to make an announcement that the Chapter meeting in September will be hosted by Japanese Consul General Ota and Mrs. Ota at their official residence on September 23.  This is a very special way to kick-off the new fiscal year.  Please plan to attend this first meeting at their beautiful residence.  Consul Kuchii worked hard to arrange this opportunity for us. The meeting will start from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m.  Tea will be served.  The program will be by Consul Fujimori.

The 13th Annual Aki Matsuri will be held at Bellevue College on September 11 – 12.  Once again we can show our beautiful ikebana displays to the larger public.  Thank you Michiko and Mackie for taking charge of this event. 

You will find very exciting programs, schedules and events in the new I.I. Directory.  Please pick one up at the September meeting.

Enjoy the rest of the summer.

Friendship through Flowers,
Nobuko Ohgi, President