News

Kumamoto Relief Fund Update

The Club is nearing its ¥1 million donation goal for its Kumamoto Earthquake Relief Fund.

Launched last month after the earthquakes that struck parts of Kyushu, the fund has received generous contributions from Members through a dedicated online fund page and Members Services and at the recent First Friday: Cinco de Mayo event.

Donations will go to support the relief efforts of Second Harvest Japan, a Tokyo-based charity that is working with Food Bank Kagoshima to help those in affected areas.

Help the Club reach its ¥1 million goal by making a donation to the Culture, Community & Entertainment Committee-organized fund before June 30.

Renovated Fitness Center Unveiled

The Club opened its renovated Fitness Center at a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the end of April.

The expanded space features a larger stretching area and around 40 brand-new, state-of-the-art cardio and strength-training machines.

Club President John Durkin, who attended the opening along Recreation Committee chair Sam Rogan, said the Club invested more than ¥40 million in the upgrade.

"The investment was made possible by the Club’s favorable business results over the past two years," he wrote in an e-mail to Members. "I am confident TAC is best in fitness. I hope you enjoy our new facilities."

Remembering Jerry McAlinn

Former Club governor Jerry McAlinn passed away earlier this week following a long illness.

A longtime Japan resident, he served on the Board on three occasions, most recently from 2008 to 2009.

The American was also a key figure in the Club's redevelopment project, serving as chair of the Long Range Planning Committee (LRPC) and as a member of the Redevelopment Planning Committee (RPC), which was established to oversee the historic rebuilding of the Azabudai Club.

"The Club is saddened to learn of the passing of former governor Jerry McAlinn," said Club President John Durkin. "Jerry was a longtime Member of the Club and was principal to the Club’s redevelopment and revision of the Articles of Association. He will be greatly missed by all."

As a professor at Keio Law School in Tokyo, he wrote extensively about American and Japanese law and discussed the subject in an interview with the Club magazine in 2011.

Refurbished Guest Studio to Open

Surf, the Club’s refurbished Guest Studio, opens its doors to guests from May 6.

With its ocean-themed interior, designed by the Tokyo-based firm Plus Furniture Company, Surf replaces Fitness in the lineup of seven overnight rooms.

Surf is the first Guest Studio to feature two queen-size beds, a detail that is bound to prove popular with guests, particularly those with children.

Club Calls for Award Nominations

The Club is asking Members to suggest candidates to receive its various awards.

For more than 25 years, the Club has been honoring individuals for their achievements in different fields.
 
Until May 31, Members can nominate possible awardees online for the Distinguished Achievement, Sports Lifetime Achievement, Sportsman of the Year and Sportswoman of the Year awards.

The likes of tennis player Kei Nishikori (2015 Sportsman of the Year Award), skater Mao Asada (2010 Sportswoman of the Year Award), baseball coach Bobby Valentine (2005 Sports Lifetime Achievement Award) and astronaut Mamoru Mohri (1998 Distinguished Achievement Award) are part of a long list of illustrious recipients. 

The Culture, Community and Entertainment Committee will review all nominations and offer its suggestions to the Board of Governors for approval.