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 along with 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 (Frost Brown Todd), Dan Nesbitt (Nesbitt IP), and Tracy Urti (Mitsubishi Electric Automotive America).

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: Frost Brown Todd Gold Sponsor: Daniel Nesbitt (JASGC Board Member) Silver Sponsors: Koji Sado (JASGC Board President), Adam Kressler, Tony Webb, Steve & Helen Rindsberg, Mark Schlachter (JASGC Board Members), and Rozzi Fireworks.

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!