The first class, I was attracted to the word "super" in the title, because I am always
cutting corners when I cook. I was surprised when we cooked beef that looked good
enough to eat as steak into soup for ramen. It was very tasty, but because of the beef
and the fact that the ramen noodles were actually somen, it had a very international flavor.

The theme of the 2^nd class was American home cooking. We were a little overwhelmed by the salad that used balsamic vinegar and whole black olives but threw them together enthusiastically. One of things I remember most is that while eating the spiced baked chicken and mashed potatoes, someone commented “I wish there was rice!”

I would prefer not to write this farewell note, but my term as Kosaka’s CIR ends on July 25. On July 30, I will be flying to Taiwan to spend some time with my family. After that, I will be returning to the United States.

When I arrived, fresh out of college, I did not really know the meaning of the words “grassroots internationalization.” Fortunately, KIS members sure did. I am still awed by the way the JICA host friend exchange program groups always welcome JICA participants with such warm hearts and open minds, and, with incredible consideration and enthusiasm, take care of and entertain JICA participants during their 3 month training course in Kosaka.

 I really enjoyed my time in Kosaka. The people are cheerful and the town itself is adorable. There is the wonderful Korakukan Theatre and the world-class scenery of Lake Towada. But most of all there is the incredibly active international society, which has given me interesting and meaningful work during my stay.

  Most of the CIR’s job revolves around KIS, so I am greatly indebted to you all. The next CIR has not been decided, but someone should be coming at the end of August. I will not be here to show him or her the ropes, so please kindly watch over the new person.

 Thank you for the incredible experience I have had these two years. I’ll be back! So don’t be too lonely!       

(Tina Shang, The 7^th Kosaka Town CIR)

On the day of the event there was supposed to be pretty bad weather, but fortunately it did not rain and our fears were alleviated without anyone crying. This time the Wine
Festival was on the same day as the interns' field trip, however it was like a normal year and it seemed like everyone had to relax andeven do a little dancing… So everyone was able to enjoy themselves. Every year KIS had their coffee fundraiser. With the catchphrase, "Vaccines for all the world's children" KIS donated all the funds to the well-known Japanese Commission. The total donation was \6,220. Thank you for you support.

There are now three different types of English classes being held. The first is a beginner's English class where we learn the basic, useful English phrases and pronunciation. This class is held Thursday evenings at Sepamu from 7:00 to 8:00. The first class of the month will be taught by Hosokawa Sensei, and the rest will be taught by the CIR, Andrew.
The second is an intermediate English conversation class where more complicated English phrases that are used often in conversation are taught. This class is held Thursday afternoons at the Mine Office from 1:00 to 2:30 and all classes are taught by Andrew.
The third and final class is a new incarnation called "Eigo de shaberanaito KIS version". This class is held on the last Thursday of the month at Sepamu in place of the beginner's English class. A certain theme is chosen and each member of the class will prepare a short speech about the theme that they will share with the class and then discuss what is said, of course it is all done in English.

As always anyone is welcome to attend. If you enjoy studying and speaking English or if you're just curious please come and see how you like it.

El español pertenece fonéticamente al mismo grupo que el japonés. Pore so algunos japoneses dicen que se sienten como si no fuera una lengua extranjera. Cada año repetemos lo básico, pues los principiantes y los que son debil en el inglés son bienvendos. Vamos a disfrutarnos cantando, bailando y las excursions todos juntos con el carácter latino.