By now, most of you have heard that there was an extremely powerful earthquake in Japan. It measured 8.9 and is considered to be the worst ever recorded in Japan, even surpassing the Great Kantou Earthquake of 1923. This has been followed by strong aftershocks and more earthquakes. Tsunamis measuring 10 meters high hit the coast of Sendai and Fukushima. And unfortunately, but not surprisingly, fires are breaking out in some areas.I spent the morning contacting our friends, colleagues and acquaintances in Japan. So far, we're receiving positive responses from everyone. Even our friends in Hokkaido seem to be safe at the moment.
Of course, we all are sending good thoughts and prayers to everyone in Japan.
If you are not philosophically opposed to supporting the Red Cross, you can Text REDCROSS to 90999 to donate $10 to the international relief fund for Japan. I am not endorsing the Red Cross and there are other reputable rescue and relief organizations. Please follow your conscience and do what you think is right and best in regards to offering relief.
In a masterly bit of bad timing, today was the day that Anime News Network announced that ALC Publishing has been honored by the Kyoto International Manga Museum by having a number of our manga included in their permanent collection. For a very spiffy picture of our dear friend and staffer Komatsu-san handing over the books to Watanabe-san of the museum, check out the ANN story.
Of course, we are very pleased by this, but also wish it had been announced on some other day, because it is a little hard to feel very good about it today. Nonetheless, we thank Komatsu-san for his assistance, and the Kyoto International Manga Museum for allowing us to contribute to their research collection!