Party unites Japanese community

The Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Chicago held a New Year's party Sunday at the Renaissance Schaumburg Hotel & Convention Center.

Among the guests was Schaumburg Mayor Al Larson, who pointed out that Schaumburg has a sister city relationship with Namerikawa, Japan.

"There are more Japanese companies in Schaumburg than any community in the Chicagoland area," Larson said.

The party featured, as a special guest, Ms. Iruka, a well-known Japanese folk singer.

Kenji Shinoda of the Consulate General of Japan's office in Chicago, was also among the distinguished guests.

"The good turnout reflects the healthy business environment for Japanese companies in Chicago and environs, Shinoda said.

"Today, we have 8,500 Japanese residents in Chicagoland, and here in this hall today, we have 1,000 Japanese getting together," he said.

Shinoda said the Northwest suburbs are attractive to Japanese companies because of the proximity to O'Hare and the pleasant residential areas, as well as welcome tax incentives.