Acknowledgments

First and foremost, I would like to acknowledge and thank John Whaley, my faithful husband of over 40 years. You have spent countless hours reading the manuscript, giving advice, and standing beside me in the process of writing this book. Because of you, this book is now a reality.

To Nobuki Sugihara, a special thank you for ensuring the accuracy of your father, Chiune Sugihara’s legacy. The addition of the family crest/kamon and photos made the Courage/Yuuki chapter complete.

Domo arigato gozaimasu (“thank you” in Japanese) to my editor, Mike Jenkins. Living and working in Japan has given you expert insight and understanding of Japan and the Japanese culture. Your advice, knowledge, sense of humor, and encouragement have been invaluable, and for that I am grateful. You have a Japanese heart.

I would like to acknowledge the following organizations and individuals for providing assistance in this project: Thank you to the Daniel K. Inouye Institute for editing and providing photographs and other materials. Thank you to Denise Moriguchi, CEO of Uwajimaya Inc., for providing photos and editing the chapter on Uwajimaya. Thank you to the Japanese American National Museum (JANM) for their assistance in providing Michi Nishimura Weglyn’s photograph. Thank you to Anna Akabori and Philip Tajitsu Nash for your insightful editing. It was an honor and pleasure working with you: domo arigatou gozaimasu!

Speaking of encouragement, I would like to thank my book coach, Patrick Snow, for your knowledge and positive attitude that always propelled me forward. Also, a special thanks to Chris Brusatte, Go for Broke National Education Center, whose enthusiasm, energy, and unwavering support bolstered my spirit in this endeavor.

My deepest thank you to the Tuttle Publishing team for their expert advice, encouragement, support and extraordinary efforts in this book. It has been a rewarding experience to work with such dedicated professionals; I am honored.

A sincere acknowledgment and heartfelt thank you to all of you who contributed your time, talent, gifts, expertise and advice: Jim Alan, Kim Chaney, Edale Clark, Ron Magden, Karen Matsumoto and Belinda Timpke.

A heartfelt acknowledgment to my mentors, both past and present: Sara Little Turnbull, Klemmer & Associates, Empowermax, Arvee Robinson, Eric Lofholm, Rick Cooper, Pastor Mark Biltz, Darnyelle A. Jervey, and Star Bobatoon.

A special thank you and acknowledgment to my sisters, Mary Lynn Archer and Karen Tsugawa. You encouraged me and looked forward to the completion of this book with great anticipation. Mother was right, we would all be great friends!