Over the past 18 months, CDF has devoted much time introducing Toyota and Japanese nationals to our southern culture. We opened our manufacturing plants to showcase our high calibur workforce and our public schools to prove our commitment to education. We shared Elvis's birthplace, fried green tomatoes and catfish.

This past week it was time for us to learn more about them: their production facilities, kimonos, sushi, and the Imperial Palace.

The Mississippi Development Authority and the Office of Gov. Haley Barbour sent a 32-person delegation to the Southeast United States/Japan, 31st Annual meeting in Tokyo, Japan. Northeast Mississippi and Tupelo/Lee County were 11 members of that delegation. Michael Jones partner in charge of the Tupelo office of JBHM Architects was one of the 11 members.

We had four missions:

First, to represent Mississippi well in our first year as a partner in the 31-year old SEUS/Japan Association. Membership includes Japan's top business leaders and government officials and leaders from the southeastern states. Mississippi was congratulated for our perseverance and professionalism in locating Nissan and Toyota to Mississippi. We met new friends from surrounding states and from multi-nationals like Sony, Toshiba and Hitachi. Mississippi Development Authority Director Gray Swoope and his team did a masterful job. Although a rookie, Mississippi performed like a veteran. First mission accomplished.

Second, to network in person with potential Toyota suppliers. While these discussions must, understandably, remain confidential, our effort to recruit face-to-face in Japan certainly enhances our chances to succeed. Second mission accomplished.

Third, to solidify our relationships with Toyota and Toyota Auto Body. Following the conference, we traveled to Nagoya and Toyota City on the 180 mph bullet train.

That evening we were treated to a nine-course traditional Japanese meal - while seated on the floor, using chopsticks. It was an amazing experience. The food was outstanding. Having been hosted and toasted by us here in Mississippi, they took this opportunity to show their hospitality to us. There is no doubt in my mind that this visit added another layer of trust and mutual respect to our burgeoning relationships. Third mission accomplished.

Fourth, to enrich and enlarge our personal understanding of Japanese culture and customs, that we may spread that knowledge throughout our community so that all of us in Northeast Mississippi can be valuable partners in this new chapter of economic development. We came away with these observations:

Our new friends in Japan genuinely appreciate the hard work our economic development team, volunteers and public officials put in to win their business. By taking the time to travel there, to admire the facilities, to learn and to appreciate, we found them to be just as warm, friendly and hard working.

Next, even in the crowded city of Tokyo, some 12 million people, they make time to respect and serve one another. They are courteous to visitors and to each other.

Third, they, too, take pride in their work. Now, together, we can look forward to mutually taking pride in the world-class work we have before us.

-- Northeast Mississippi Daily Journal, October 26, 2007