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June 28, 2002

"I must vanquish the evil foe with my "shuriken!" (a martial arts weapon throwing thingamabob) Okay, it's not a completely accurate translation, but you get the point---er, points, rather. They throw it, and if they hit the mark, it hurts! (This is a replica, of course!) Can you guess who this is? No,not the NP:J students and teachers from Boise, but the wax figure! "Makudonarudo" are everywhere! When NP:J is in town, McDonald's Japan sees a significant increase in the consumption of fries and Big Macs.

Action figures, anyone? For those of you who are interested in America's cultural influence on our global neighbors... Yes, Star Wars mania has taken hold of Japan. At this Star Wars memorabilia shop, this limited edition prop replica of Obi-wan's light saber sells for 207,900 yen. That's approximately $1,700! If you purchase this, "may the farce be with you.." Back by popular demand, an action shot of the star of this vending machine in Tokyo---Pocari Sweat! This vehicle was on display at the base of Tokyo Tower. Can you fathom its function? If you guessed a tractor, or a rice planter/harvester, you'd be right! If you guessed a Cuisinart, you might want to get out to the country and visit a farm in operation...