Saturday, 13th March 2010,
The Westin Hotel,
Ebisu Garden Place,
Tokyo
It is with my deepest appreciation that I write this thanking you for your patronage to The Tokyo Emerald Ball in 2010. Special thanks to Her Imperial Highness Princess Takamado, Minister of Education and Science Mr. Batt O'Keefe, Ambassador of Ireland Mr. Brendan Scannell, Ms Akiko Suzuki, and former Miss World Japan Ms. Rui Watanabe and Miss Universe of Japan Finalist Ms Akaya Koyanagi.
Not only was it one of the most memorable Emerald Ball's to date, but thanks to everyone’s support, The Ireland Fund of Japan raised funds required to continue our efforts supporting arts, education, cultural awareness and the community.
We hope you had the opportunity to attend one of the St. Patrick's Day Parades which we support. These parades are unique events where Japanese communities in nine cities demonstrate their hospitality, and in doing so extend their understanding of the Irish culture by participating in our national day celebrations.
Later this year, and next year there are plans to continue our support of student exchanges between Ireland and Japan. We believe that these educational experiences bring out the potential in the young people involved, and are key instruments in the further development of Japan - Ireland relationships.
We are pleased to participate in a homeless reestablishment program in Osaka, and to assist The Tokyo Helpline; which provide invaluable services to the community, in times of their greatest need.
We promise to continue supporting worthy causes thanks to your generosity. Thank you all once again, and we look forward to The Emerald Ball 2011.
Sincerely,
Andrew Nolan
Emerald Ball Chairman 2010
