From all the committee members, we hope everybody had a good summer and that you're all refreshed and ready for the new academic year. The society has a lot planned for the future and we hope to make this term our most eventful yet.

As you may already know, our Freshers Week debut kicks off with the hugely successful "Sushi, Saké, Sumo". For those of you who aren't familiar with the event, here is a brief introduction/summary:

SUSHI, SAKÉ, SUMO - does exactly what it says on the tin. Come participate in our sushi making classes, and learn how to make the basic California roll. Or, for something a little more adventurous, battle it out against a friend in our sumo ring. If all that isn't enough for you there will also be an opportunity to sample some Japanese sake in our saké tasting challenge.

The event begins on the 18th of September - that's this Thursday - at Teviot Row House from 8.00pm to 11.45pm. After this time the plan is to head to MacEwan's Ale House, our usual social venue. MacEwan's now stocks saké so be sure to take advantage of this rare opportunity!

Also, don't worry if you are not a student of Edinburgh University, we have confirmed that there shouldn't be any problem entering Teviot. We do advise you arrive early to avoid disappointment as Sushi, Saké, Sumo consistently draws a large crowd.

On the 17th and 18th this week we will have a stall at the FRESHERS SOCIETY FAIR. During this time there will be committee members present to answer any queries and an opportunity to renew your membership (only £3) for the 2008/09 academic year. The stall will be open from 10am - 4pm in the Pleasance Ochil Room.

Social evenings will continue to be held at MacEwan's Ale House on South Clark Street, every Thursday from 8pm. We'll look forward to seeing you all soon!

All the best in the new term,

Japanese Society Committee