Special Guests
A big thank you to Tomoe Sato-san from the Consulate-General of Japan in New York for attending and giving his opening remarks at our festival!
Shumei America and Iroha Taiko Group also brightened our festival with their lively drumming and energy healing! Visit the Shumei America Facebook page for more info if you're interested in learning Japanese taiko drumming, or if have an interest in natural agriculture and spiritual healing.
Members & VIPs
Executive Board
John Rivera
Chairman & Tea Guide
John ascended to the role of chairman in 2024. A former exchange student, John acts as leader of the commission’s extremely popular sakura festival tea ceremony, and as an exchange program Event Planner.
Michiyo Salen
Vice Chair Woman
Michiyo tours our Japanese visitors around the Bethlehem area and has been an outstanding participant at numerous commission and exchange program events, as well as a host for exchange students.
Leah Bogert
Treasurer & Secretary
After participating in our student exchange program, Leah has been involved with the commission since 2015. In 2024, she officially became a member and was elected Treasurer.
Autumn "Aki" Edwards
PR & Japanese Instructor
Autumn has been involved in activities since 2016, and was a previous exchange student! As of 2024, she is now an official member of the commission serving as Public Relations Manager and Japanese Instructor.
Commission Members
Joe Narkevic
Former Chairman
Jen Kerchner
Yukata Guide
Ellen Bearn
Former Chairwoman
Chloe "Chu" Chu
Tea Guide
Nancy Topping
Former Treasurer
Miki Sankary
JAJAJA & U.S.ーJapan Council Partner
Deirdre Sumpter
Former Japanese Instructor
Beth McFadden
Liberty High School Partner