Issue:
Dear members,
September was a hot and hectic month at the club, with the announcement of Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s intention to resign, followed by the start of the campaign to succeed him as president of the Liberal Democratic Party. We hosted a number of political speakers in the runup to the vote on October 4, as well as several panel discussions, including one on the future of journalism education in Japan.
The events reflect the strengths of FCCJ committees. The Associate Membership Liaison Committee sponsored the journalism panel, while the Professional Activities Committee hosted multiple great speakers. The Film Committee has organised a preview of The Last Blossom (Housenka) with director Baku Kinoshita, the Exhibition Committee held another monthly display – this month’s is title Southern Crust and features photos of Australia by Kazuaki Ono - and we held a club marketing night aimed at non-member journalists.
I mention our committees because they are driven by volunteers, and they need your help. It is never too late to join, and your involvement will make us stronger as an organization.
Our long-term strategy team is working to raise funds for the FCCJ, while another group is focused on our historic 80th anniversary party, now less than two months away. I encourage you to make reservations soon to gain the early-bird pricing for what will be a legendary night with special guests, music, and great food and drink. We have already secured corporate commitments to the event, and kindly encourage you or your organization to consider supporting the party and its historic commemoration.
Finally, the FCCJ board of directors will be electing a new secretary at its October meeting. We’ll be able to share more on that vote - and the LDP’s - in the coming days.
Dan Sloan
FCCJ President
