February 14, 2026

Message from the Chairperson Soho

Happy Valentine’s Day!

I hope you are all doing well and enjoying the beautiful spring-like weather.

Our annual meeting on February 8 th was a great success with participation by over 110 members.

I extend heartfelt thanks to Mari Tischenko “Riji” who was assisted by George Tischenko for a fascinating lecture and demonstration.
Mari presented several Ikebana designs incorporating Gordon Ward’s latest ceramic series, his abstract organic forms he calls “Alien
Bones.” Mari’s demonstration was excellent – a one of kind with beautiful color combination, texture, distinction, individuality and
originality.

A delicious Japanese Bento was enjoyed by everyone with time to catch up with old friends and enjoy the day together. A big thank
you goes to our hospitality Chairperson, Takako Miyashita who was assisted by Neuza Lake. They did a fantastic job. During this time,
members were also able to look at the many wonderful ikebana vases and other items for sale which were donated by Charlene Yip,
Gail Uilkima, Carole Rathfon, Nancy Chiu and Loretta Altshuler. Last but not least, we could not have done it without help of Sahshah,
Rachel, Keiko and Pia for the transportation of more than 150 vases and other Ikebana supplies from Charlene’s house in Los Gatos
Hill.

Especially, our thanks go out to Rachel Johnson and Keiko Kubo, our program co-chairpersons. They did an outstanding job of making
the day enjoyable for everyone with help from the Board Members and all the other members. Everyone helped to made it such a
successful biannual meeting. The total from the containers’ sale was $3,065. We want to thank everyone who supported us by making
a purchase of the containers.

On that day, we elected the following Soho Study Group Board Members for 2026-2028.

Chairperson: Soho Sakai
Co- Chairperson: Dorcas Walton
Secretary: Cora Metivier
Treasure: Veronica Leung
Program: Cindy Ting and Ava Kennedy
Membership: Neaera Baer
Photographer & Historian: Yoni Mayeri
Webpage: Dorcas Walton
Hospitality: Neuza Lake
Auditor: Keiko Kubo

I look forward to sharing with you another memorable year of Sogetsu Ikebana. We’re working on some exciting programs and events
and I am looking forward to an enjoyable and productive term.

Thank you for renewing our membership for the year: April 1, 2026 – March 31, 2027. I want to let you know how grateful we are for
your continued support. Through your support, Soho Study Group is better able to continue its commitment to the advancement of
excellence and to furthering your horizons in Sogetsu Ikebana.

Be sure to visit www.sogetsu-sohostudygroup.org for current events and members news throughout the year. You can also find our
membership form there. If you are looking for teacher, you can find Teaching Teacher’s list on the website.

Best wishes for a great year. And, thank you again for your support of Soho Study Group.

Please stay safe and healthy,
Sincerely,
Soho Sakai, Chairperson