Mochitsuki 2011 is coming! The event will be held on December 3, 12 noon-2 p.m., at North Bethesda Middle School 8935 Bradmoor Drive, Bethesda, MD 20817.
Please join your JACL friends for mochitsuki and mochi-making demonstrations. Do some holiday shopping at the arts and crafts sale, and relax during a Japanese dance performance.
Bento lunch boxes will be available. Cost: $20 for adults ($16 if prepaid by November 30); $5 for children.
For more information email Kristen.Bjornson@gmail.com.
JACL DC 
The rhythmic pounding of steamed rice welcomed DC Chapter members and guests to our annual Mochitsuki. Led by Floyd Mori, JACL
National Executive Director, and Craig Uchida, Chapter treasurer, adults and children alike took turns participating in the tradition of preparing the mochi flour for the sticky treat that symbolizes the binding together of our community for the coming year.
While inside, Japanese Ambassador Ichiro Fujisaki greeted each guest, thanked us for helping Japan recover from the earthquake/tsunami disasters, and presented bracelets that expressed the appreciation of the Japanese people for all the support.
Crafty Ladies brought their wonderful, creative handicrafts for sale and generously donated the proceeds to our Chapter. Irene Mori gathered the multigenerational guests around her and taught them how to shape the mochi into delicious morsels. Jean Kariya led the dancing that threaded its way through the crowd.
A special thank you to Mochitsuki chefs Sachi Mukai and Barbara Nekoba, who also prepared mochi for sale and tsukemono that went quickly. A record number of volunteers organized the event, made signs, set up the registration table, delivered the bento boxes, served food to 250 guests in an hour, cleaned up, and returned supplies to storage. A hearty thank you to the Board and extended family members who helped make this a memorable occasion.
So great that JACL DC has website! Thanks for putting it together Leona!