harley: thanks, but I just found out I only see her 20 minutes a WEEK (!) so it appears I'll be just a cog in the machine.

this is a bit off topic, but in one of my kindies there is a new Japanese student who can't speak a word of Korean, English or any other language I know...can anyone here think of something I can say to her that would make her feel welcome in romanji? She seemed pretty confused, as Korea can seem barbaric (esp compared to Japan) to even those who know the language.

i've heard Kyoto is responsible for some modern champions' background and depth in conventional shogi, some have said it was an excellent way to prepare.