MOSES LAKE - The latest group of Japanese Agriculture Training Program students arrived at Big Bend Community College last week.

The college welcomed 49 agriculture trainees to the first leg of their 18-month stay in the United States with addresses from Moses Lake Mayor Jon Lane and Big Bend Community College President Bill Bonaudi.

The turnout for the welcome ceremony was the best anyone could remember, according to organizers.

"The former trainees all had home stays in the Moses Lake area, and they lived long-term with host farmers across the U.S.," Doug Sly, executive director of the BBCC Foundation stated. "People are concerned for their friends in Japan, and the relationships go back a long time."

The Consul General of Japan, Kiyokazu Ota, made the trip from Seattle to address the trainees during the ceremony as well.

During his address, Ota told the trainees their commitment to agriculture was important for finding solutions to the challenges that lay ahead for Japan in the aftermath of the earthquake and tsunami.

Trainees study English, farm safety, and American culture during an eight-week stint at Big Bend Community College. They will then leave for assignments on farms across the United States. The assignments are related to their specialities and will last one year.

During their eight weeks in Moses Lake, trainees make home visits to families in the Moses Lake area that last either a day or a weekend.

"It is always one of their most memorable experiences because it is their first time in an American home," Lead English Instructor Susan Blackwell stated.

The BBCC Foundation is taking donations to assist return trainees affected by the earthquake and tsunami. 

Donations totaling $2,800 have already been collected and will be distributed with the advice of the Japan Agriculture Exchange Council. 

To donate to the fund, call 509-793-2006.

Home visits are available and families interested in hosting trainees should call the JATP office at 509-793-2297.