Events explore Japanese culture

Take a closer look at Japanese culture and language through two free events offered by Chesterfield County Public Schools:

"Undokai - Japanese Sports Festival" will begin at 10 a.m. on Apr. 21 in the stadium at Clover Hill High, 13900 Hull Street Rd. Japanese clubs from Clover Hill High, Cosby High, Midlothian High and Monacan High will compete in events including the 50-yard dash, jumping for pastries, tug-of-war and spirit competition.

"University Opportunities for Japanese Study" will begin at 7 p.m. on May 17 in the Humanities Center at Monacan High, 11501 Smoketree Dr. Representatives from Japanese language programs at several Virginia colleges, including the University of Virginia and Randolph-Macon College, will discuss educational opportunities. About 230 students study Japanese at James River, Cosby, Clover Hill, Midlothian, Monacan, L.C. Bird, Matoaca, Meadowbrook and Thomas Dale high schools.

For more information about any of these events, contact Japanese teacher James Guthrie at 378-2480 ext. 40.