On October 16, 2010, International House highlighted Japan at the 22nd Annual Benefit Gala hosted at the Hilton Charlotte Center City. "Japan - Celebrating Its Beauty and Culture" was attended by over 360 guests. Special guests included Mrs. Millie Cox, Honorary Consul of France, Charlotte; Mr. Dana Hicks, Honorary Consul of Canada, Charlotte; Mr. Kurt Waldthausen, Honorary Consul of the Federal Republic of Germany, Charlotte; Mrs. Rachel McDearmid, Trade Commissioner, Canadian Consulate, Raleigh; and Mr. Teruyoshi Ogano, Principal, The Japanese Language School, Charlotte. The Gala raised over $100,000 for the programs and services of International House.

We extend sincerest gratitude to all who helped make this year's Gala a huge success. Special thanks go to Josane Calvert, Gala Chair, and to the dedicated, hard-working volunteer Gala Committee. Thank you, as well, to the Japanese Association of Charlotte for their continued friendship and support. Finally, thank you to our corporate sponsors, listed below, for their financial support of the event with special appreciation to our Japanese corparate sponsors. All proceeds from the Annual Galas support the programs and services of International House.

Acknowledgements Mr. and Mrs. Casey Mermans Mrs. Ton Van Wingerden ******************* Mr. Ernest Perry, Perry's at SouthPark - Auctioneer Mr. Larry Sprinkle, News Channel 36 - Auctioneer StudioR, Inc. - Graphic Design Mrs. Fumiko Symonds and Mrs. Miyako Watanabe - Cultural Advisors Mr. Randy Shaw - Photography Web Full Circle - Networking and Hardware Support Ikebana International Chapter #49 - Design and Production for Floral Centerpieces Campbell's Gerenhouses - Loan of Maple Trees for Auction DIsplay Mrs. Nudi Lillienthal, Thai Orchid Restaurant - Donation of Chopsticks Ms. Alexis Gordon and Ms. Vinati Kaul - Decorations Assistance