The Japan America Society of Greater Cincinnati kicked off the new year with its annual Shinnenkai on Thursday, January 29th 2026, bringing members together at Blue and Co.’s atrium in Downtown Cincinnati.

Guests enjoyed appetizers from Mei Japanese Restaurant, beer sponsored by Asahi Super Dry, and a selection of wine.

The evening also included several announcements. Brian Ruhe of Bannockburn Global Forex was introduced as the new Vice President, and three new board members were welcomed: Kai Bitter (FBT Gibbons), Dan Nesbitt (Nesbitt IP), and Simon Wood (CVG).

JASGC also unveiled its new website and a new Greater Cincinnati Region Japanese Investment Map, a resource highlighting Japanese business presence across the region.

We extend our gratitude to our sponsors for making the evening possible:

Major Event Sponsors: Asahi Beer USA and Blue & Co. Platinum Sponsor: Kai Bitter (JASGC Board Member) Gold Sponsor: Dan Nesbitt (JASGC Board Member) Silver Sponsors: Koji Sado (JASGC Board President), Adam Kressler (JASGC Board Member), Tony Webb (JASGC Board Member) , Steve & Helen Rindsberg (JASGC Board Members), Mark Schlachter (JASGC Board Members), and Rozzi Fireworks (JASGC Member).

Thank you to everyone who attended. If you have questions about your membership or want to get involved, contact Executive Director Anne Golden at golden@jasgc.org.

Stay tuned for upcoming JASGC events!

Photo gallery by David Bailey below.