A note from the Kumamoto International incremental restoration desk: a bit of good news for fans of sake and/or very large chimneys: The Yamamura sake brewery in Takamori, founded 130 years ago on traditions extending back to 1762, had its brick chimney badly damaged in the quakes, but removal of the damaged upper three meters has enabled restoration of the remaining lower six. Though the chimney has been unused for decades since the brewery switched from wood to electricity and oil for power, it has become a symbol of Takamori. Next time you’re there, swing by and say hello to the brewer master, Mr. Yamamura.