http://www.hawaiitokai.edu/modules/news/article.php?storyid=28
An exhibition of Ikebana (Flower Arranging) from the Sessyu School was open for public viewing in HTICs auditorium on May 30 31. The centerpiece of the exhibition was a large arrangement of cherry blossoms and proteas arranged by Mrs. Setsuko Matsumae, who is an accomplished teacher of Sessyu School flower arrangement and tea ceremony. Mrs. Matsumae deliberately chose to arrange the cherry blossoms, delicate Japanese flowers; and protea, which thrive on the southern slopes of Mauna Loa and Haleakala, as a celebration of long-standing friendly Japan-US relations. Matsumae sensei is wife of Tokai University Educational System President, Dr. Tatsuro Matsumae. 
Sessyu School members also provided Japan Studies Association grantees and Ikebana International members and guests with samplings of three different varieties of tea, including Matcha, the green tea that is customarily served during Japanese tea ceremonies. Over 100 guests from the local community enjoyed the exhibition celebrating traditional Japanese arts.
In addition to the Sessyu exhibition, the HTIC auditorium also held a display of the late Edo period art of Sagemon, which is indigenous to the Yanagawa region of Kyushu. "Sagemon" refers to hanging ornaments that are suspended from the ceilings of homes during Girl's Day celebrations (hinamatsuri) as expressions of a family's love for the child and hope that she will live a happy, healthy and long life.In addition to the large display, the teachers of the Yanagawa Sagemon Association held a workshop for the Japan Studies Association grantees. The grantees learned how to make their own "mari," a central component of the Sagemon display whose round shape symbolizes the gentle nature of the Japanese people.
Keywords: htic