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2007 A N N U A L R E P O R T

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A TLANTA •S ISTER •C I T I E S C OMMISSION 2007 Annual Report

ANCIENT OLYMPIA GREECE

BRUSSELS BELGIUM

BUCHAREST ROMANIA

COTONOU BENIN

DAEGU KOREA

FUKUOKA JAPAN LAGOS NIGERIA

MONTEGO BAY JAMAICA

NEWCASTLE-UPON-TYNE GREAT BRITAIN

NUREMBERG GERMANY

PORT-OF-SPAIN TRINIDAD

RA'ANANA ISRAEL

RIO DE JANEIRO BRAZIL

SALCEDO DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

SALZBURG AUSTRIA

TAIPEI TAIWAN

TBILISI REPUBLIC OF GEORGIA

TOULOUSE FRANCE

a t l a n t a • s i s t e r • C i t i e s C OMMISSION 2007 Annual Report

The Honorable Shirley Franklin INTRODUCTION 2 To Mayor, City of Atlanta

The Honorable Lisa Borders Commission Reports 3 President, Atlanta City Council

Committee Reports 6 Teri Simmons From Chair Atlanta Sister Cities Commission

I am pleased to submit to you the 2007 Annual Report of the Atlanta Sister Cities Commission (ASCC). In addition to the activities of the various committees, ASCC has met monthly to carry out its role and function in relation to Atlanta's Sister Cities program. We were pleased to serve the City of Atlanta and its international community during 2007 and look forward to the continued growth and expansion of the Sister Cities program under your administration.

2 0 Page 1 0 7 a t l a n t a • s i s t e r • C i t i e s C OMMISSION 2007Introduction Annual Report

The Atlanta Sister Cities Commission Atlanta's Sister City Committees The Atlanta Sister Cities Commission (ASCC) was chartered by the City of Atlanta and codified in Atlanta City Ordinance No. 1979-71. The Name of City Date of Chair/Representative organization is managed by a Chair, elected by the ASCC member- Affiliation ship. The appointee must be ratified by a majority of the Atlanta City Ancient Olympia – Greece 1994 Margo Alexander, Ph.D. Council. Teri Simmons was elected as Chair, and Dr. Arnold Heller as Vice Chair, in 2007. Brussels - Belgium 1983 Mr. Georges Hoffman The full 'board' of the Commission comprises the Chair, three ad- Bucharest - Romania 1994 Mr. Nick Modares ditional Mayoral appointees and two members appointed by the City Cotonou – Benin 1995 Charleise Young, Ph.D. Council. In addition, the chairpersons of each Sister City Committee, or Daegu - Korea 1981 Mr. Young Kang

their designee, serve on the Commission. Fukuoka 2005 Ms. Sumiko Renfroe

The Mayor's appointed members in 2007 were Cedric Suzman, Ph.D, Lagos – Nigeria 1974 Augustine O. Esogbue, Ph.D.

and Samuel Bacote. Montego Bay - Jamaica 1972 Mr. Vin Martin, Atty Elections are held annually to select a Vice Chair, a Secretary and a Newcastle-Upon-Tyne 1977 Mr. David Smith - Great Britain Treasurer. Each elected officer serves a one-year term. Elected officials of the Commission are restricted to two consecutive terms in office. Nuremberg - Germany 1998 Mr. Shean Atkins Port-of-Spain - Trinidad 1987 Ms. Norma Kendall - Hamlet

Officers include: Rio de Janeiro - Brazil 1972 Mrs. Wilma Kruger

Ra'anana - Israel 2000 Arnold Heller, Ph.D. Secretary Charleise Young, Ph.D Salcedo 1996 Mr. Victor Ramirez Treasurer Samuel Bacote - Dominican Republic

Salzburg - Austria 1967 Senator Judson Hill

Taipei - Taiwan 1974 Mr. Charles Liu/Mr. David Yu Other standing committees of the Commission are listed opposite. Tbilisi - Republic of Georgia 1988 Mr. John Smith, Jr Staff Toulouse – France 1974 Mrs. Betty Davis

The Commission is supported by the staff of the International Affairs Division of the Mayor's Office. The staff participates in monthly and special meetings, helps shape the Commission's policy and acts as Atlanta Sister Cities Commission - Standing Committees liaison with the Mayor. In 2007, Claire McLeveighn, director of External Affairs and International Relations, and David Constant, International Committee Chair Affairs Manager, played a vital role as coordinators for the Mayor's Executive Committee Ms. Teri Simmons

Office. Fund Raising Committee Cedric Suzman, Ph.D.

ASCC maintains a web site with press releases, annual reports and Nominating Committee Vin Martin, Atty information on each of the sister cities. Economic Development David Smith

Education Charleise Young, Ph.D. www.atlantaga.gov/International/SisterCities.aspx Public Relations David Smith

New Cities Augustine O. Esogbue, Ph.D.

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Economic Development Sub-Committee

v Participating delegates included representatives from sister cities v The Atlanta Sister Cities Commission Economic Development Nürnberg, Germany; Montego Bay, Sub-Committee spent all of 2007 in planing for its second Economic Jamaica; Ra’anana, Israel; Salcedo, Development Partnership Forum held on March 12 through 14, Dominican Republic; and Taipei, 2008. Titled 'Greener Cities: Public Transit and Green Space Policies' Taiwan and representatives from the event was aimed at facilitating the exchange of economic Ningbo, China; Porto Alegre, Brazil; development practices and increasing awareness of economic Ahmedabad, India; and Kingston, conditions among Atlanta’s sister cities. Jamaica.

v The conference was coordinated in cooperation with CIFAL Atlanta, the only North American affiliate of the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), and with the support of the Atlanta City Council’s Advisory Committee on International Relations (ACIR), the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Com- merce, with support from the Atlanta Beltline, Inc. and the BeltLine Partnership; and the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority.

v The forum highlighted the benefits of public transit and green space programs worldwide and helped communicate the City of Atlanta’s environmental initiatives, such as Sustainable Atlanta and the Beltine project, which the del- v The forum, co-hosted by the City of Atlanta, and CIFAL Atlanta egates had the option of touring. was designed to broaden participants’ knowledge of the benefits of environmental improvements in land use and transportation poli- Photographs show participation in various activities cies and to enable delegates to return to their respective countries of the Economic Development conference. with a method for managing the opportunities and challenges Below - the Ningbo, China delegation. presented by the sustainable planning of cities.

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Economic Development Sub-Committee (continued)

v The format of the conference was based around a best practice sharing and case study methodology that invited political and pro- fessional participants to share best practices and to deliver concrete action plans for their cities.

v A Welcome Dinner in the Atrium of Atlanta City Hall enabled delegates and their Atlanta hosts to meet in a festive environment. Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin welcomed all the guests and recognized sister city anniversaries and individual leaders for their contribution to the sister city program.

v With a year in planning and a target of $50,000 in sponsorship, the Atlanta Economic Development Partnership Forum shows how the Atlanta Sister Cities Commission is supporting the economic development goals of Atlanta as well as its partner cities. Participants had the opportunity to learn from the experiences of other partner cities during the conference, and to meet with host sister city committee members and hold other social and business-related meetings before and after the event.

Photographs show moments captured from the Economic Development conference. including (left) Mayor Franklin at the Welcome Dinner welcomes the group from Ahmedabad, India.

Below right: the Atlanta International School puts on a 'skit' for the visitors, demonstrating their studies and solutions for Atlanta's transport and environmental issues.

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Reception for International Students

v In November 2007, during International Education Week, the Atlanta Sister Cities Commission (ASCC) hosted a reception for international students at the Underground Atlanta’s Event Loft. Interna- tional Education Week is a joint initiative between the Department of State and the Department of Education to promote programs that prepare Americans for a global environment and attract future leaders from abroad to study, learn, and exchange experiences in the United States.

v The event – made possible through ACIR grant funding - was attended by about 150 students from GA State University, GA Tech and the Atlanta University Center. It both served as an introduction to the City of Atlanta government, as well as to recognize the contributions of the international student community to Atlanta in the areas of educational attainment, economy and cultural diversity.

v Mayor Shirley Franklin, along with Councilmembers Jim Mad- dox and Kwanza Hall, presented proclamations to the international student advisors of Georgia State University, Georgia Tech and the Atlanta University Center (Morehouse College, Spelman College and Clark Atlanta University).

v Along with this reception, representatives from the consul- ates general of Switzerland and Colombia made presentations on their countries at high schools (West End Academy and Southside, respectively) in the Atlanta Public School system.

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2007Committee Reports Annual Report

Atlanta - Ancient City of Olympia Sister City Committee

v In February, Consul of Greece, Mr. Lambros Kakissis hosted a meet- v In May, the SCIS hosted ing with Dr. Margo Alexander, Chair and Mrs. Maria Sharp, Co-Chair. a luncheon for the Atlanta as well as with other Ancient Olympia Commission members to talk International Commu- about relations between the two cities and upcoming events. One nity where The Honorable of the scheduled events was the Macon Cherry Blossom Festival Angelos Pangratis, Deputy which honored Greece, on March 18, 2008 (see photo below). Head of Delegation for the European Commission to the United States was the keynote speaker. The commission hosted a reception for Mr. Pangratis to meet with other Greek leaders of the Atlanta Community. Honorable Angelos Pangratis and Dr. Margo Alexander

v The Mayor’s Chief of Staff, Mr. Greg Pridgeon, as well as David Constant, International Affairs Manager were in Greece at the begin- ning of June to participate in an Olympic Boxing celebration that the City of Peristeri is hosting. Co-Chair, Mrs. Maria Mandekos Sharp, was in Greece at that time and was able to host the Mayor’s Staff during their visit to the Country and discuss ideas for future exchanges between Ancient Olympia and Atlanta.

v While in Greece, Co-Chairman, Mrs. Maria Mandekos Sharp, met with Greek officials about an exchange program for students in the area of higher education as well as Greek Folk Dance and Customs. Also, she was able to secure a Greek film festival to be presented at the High Museum of Arts here in Atlanta. This film festival will be v The Ancient Olympia Commission members in conjunction with held in the Spring of 2008. the Federation of Hellenic/American Organizations and the Greek Folk Dance Group, participated in the creation of a Greek Float and v In September, in conjunction with the Greek Orthodox Metropolis the International Parade. In the evening, activities included a perfor- of Atlanta, an educational presentation by Dr. George Babiniotis, mance by the Greek Folk dancers. The event was under the auspices President of the Hellenic Foundation for Culture and Distinguished of the Consulate of Greece in Atlanta, and was broadcasted live by Professor of Linguistics (and former Rector) at the National and the Educational Channel. Kapodistrian University of Athens, Greece. The lecture was titled Promoting Hellenism in Today’s Society. v March 25th, Greek Independence Day was celebrated at the Carlos Museum with the Greek Community in Atlanta, GA with the Consul of Greece, Mr. Lambros Kakissis.

v In conjunction with the Center for Hellenic Studies at Georgia State University, and the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Annuncia- tion here in Atlanta, an educational presentation by guest speaker, Dr. Gregory Jusdanis, the Director of the Modern Greek Studies Program at Ohio State University was held on the Campus of Geor- (Continues page 5) gia State University on April 13, 2007. Dr. Jusdanis lecture “Cavafy’s Page 6 Poetry: From the Outside Looking In” is an exploration of Cavafy’s 2 0 poetry with an emphasis on his depiction of Hellenism. 0 7 a t l a n t a • s i s t e r • C i t i e s C OMMISSION 2007Committee Reports Annual Report

Atlanta - Ancient City of Olympia Sister City Committee (Cont'd)

Mrs. Maria Sharp, Dr. Babiniotis, and Mr. Lambros Kakissis Above: Greek float at the International Parade (Macon Cherry Blossom Festival). Below: the Lykion ton Ellinidon Greek Dancers 'Troupe Hellas'. v Also, in conjunction with the Atlanta Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Annunciation and the Federation of the Hellenic-American Organizations a reception in honor of Dr. Babiniotis was given in the evening.

v In November, the Southern Center for International Studies and the Consulate of Greece in Atlanta hosed a reception and address by His Excellency Alexandros Mallias, Ambassador of Greece to the United States. Also, the Commission had the opportunity to host Ambassador Mallias and to meet with him to discuss relations between the two cities/countries. Dean Lauren Adamson, Dr. Babiniotis, and Dr. Margo Alexander

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Atlanta - Montego Bay Sister Cities Committee

v The Atlanta-Montego Bay Sister Cities Committee (the “Commit- v Fund Raising: The Committee engaged in two major fund- tee”) has been in existence since 1972. The following committees raising activities throughout the year. In June we hosted our sev- have been designed to maximize the effectiveness of the relation- enth annual golf charity tournament and in September we held ship and to play upon the strengths of each city. The most active our annual fund raising ball. The proceeds from these events sub-committees are as follows: were used in conducting our Health Mission to Montego Bay and assisted in providing needed medicines to the underserved v Cultural Affairs patients seen in Montego Bay. Proceeds from these activities v Education were also used in conducting our other programs and provided v Fundraising necessary financing to cover the vast array of needs which we v Health and Human Services are committed to satisfy. v Trade and Commerce v Health and Human Services: In October 2007, we 2007 Activities undertook our fourteenth annual medical mission to Montego Bay. Our team comprising 34 physicians, nurses and other v Cultural Affairs: The Committee played a lead role in planning medical professionals provided needed medical care to over the celebration of Jamaica’s 44th independence anniversary. The 2,200 patients during the 3 1⁄2 days of the mission. The team Committee also held its annual gospel brunch at Atlanta City Hall also donated thousands of dollars in medicine and medical featuring several Caribbean artists. supplies to these patients. Special attention was paid to the v Education: This Committee presented a plaque to the most HIV/AIDS patients, several of whom are currently receiving their outstanding student attending an academic learning center for monthly supply of retroviral drugs, through the assistance of the teenage mothers. The successful candidate for this award was Committee. Additionally, as part of our overall commitment to responding to our challenge to grant special recognition to the our health mission, we sponsored the third annual luncheon for most outstanding young lady who excelled in continuation of the HIV/Aids patients and the third annual luncheon for patients their education after giving birth. The Committee donated reading of the psychiatric ward at Cornwall Regional Hospital in Montego materials, computers and school supplies to several basic schools in Bay. Montego Bay.

v Future Events: The committee is actively engaged in planning its activities for the current year. This will include a visit to Montego Bay by students from North Atlanta High School and a return visit by Montego Bay High School students to Atlanta. The Committee will also host its many fund-raising events and will be conducting its annual Health Mission to Montego Bay. Above: Hon Vin Martin, Chair AMBSCC. Opposite: Physicians and nurses participating in the health mission. Page 8 2 0 0 6 a t l a n t a • s i s t e r • C i t i e s C OMMISSION 2007Committee Reports Annual Report

Atlanta - Nürnberg Sister City Committee

v The Nürnberg Atlanta Partnership enjoyed active exchange in the areas of economic development, education, culture and sports in 2007.

v On May 11 and 12, 2007, metro Atlanta and its German sister city Nürnberg celebrated Southern Connections on a transatlantic scale. Atlanta hosted a high level delegation from Nürnberg for two days themed “Nürnberg Business and Cultural Celebration”. The goal was to energize and synchronize business and cultural activities, to enhance existing and inspire future cooperation between Nürnberg and Atlanta, between Germany and the United States, between individuals, companies and organizations on both sides of the Atlantic. .

v On Friday, May 11, the Atlanta World Trade Center hosted a Co-ordinators of the Crossing Bridges Conference. breakfast reception offering opportunities to make connections and v For the third consecutive year, women in Nürnberg and Atlanta exchange ideas with representatives from Atlanta’s German sister organized the “Crossing Bridges” conference. The event took place city. Among the attendees were Dr. Norbert Schuergers, Director of September 28 – 30 in Nürnberg, and was designed to bring busi- the Office of International Relations in Nuremberg, Deputy Mayor nesspeople and entrepreneurs from both sides of the Atlantic to the Dr. Julia Lehner and Ms. Christina Plewinski who is the Nürnberg table to share best practices in business management, marketing, programs officer for the sister city relationship with Atlanta. Gabriele and work-life balance. Susanne Bohn, who served as one of the Engel, General Manager, Die Region Nurnberg e.V., gave a brief founders of Crossing Bridges, published two books partially inspired presentation about the “Metropolitan Region of Nürnberg entitled: by her exchange with women in Atlanta. See it. Feel it. Stay.” v Mayor Shirley Franklin visited Nürnberg for the first time in v The Atlanta- Nürnberg Committee hosted a reception on Friday, September, 2007 and attended Nürnberg’s International Human May 11, at the Mason Murer Art Gallery, where renowned Nürnberg Rights Conference and Awards ceremonies. The award in the artist Joachim Kersten opened his first Atlanta show of paintings amount of 15.000 Euros honors individuals or groups who have, in which reflect his travels between Europe and America. The event an exemplary manner, committed themselves to fighting for and provided more opportunities to engage, connect and plan, and respecting human rights. “It is our goal to strengthen the parallel featured live music and a silent auction. between Nürnberg as the city of human rights and Atlanta, the city of civil rights”, says Christina Plewinski, stressing yet another common ground between Nürnberg and Atlanta.

v The metropolitan regions of Atlanta and Nürnberg share more than just a successful sister city relationship; they are both vital business magnets of the South - the South of Germany, and the South of the United States. Atlanta and Nürnberg both host a high number of high tech industrial and logistics companies and both cities have an annual GDP growth well above their country’s average. Atlanta’s sister city relationship with Nürnberg has become more and more important in the past years. 1200 German companies have opened subsidiaries and production plants in the Southern United States, with more than 300 in Georgia alone. In 2007, two major corpora- tions found their corporate home in Atlanta, I.K. Hoffmann and Nürnberg Messe.

Celebrating ten years of partnership with Nürnberg at the ASCC Economic Development Page 9 Conference 2008. L-R: Teri Simmons, Chair, ASCC; Shean Atkins, Chair Atlanta- Nürnberg Committee ; Frank Jülich, Director, Office of Traffic Planning, Nürnberg ; Christina Plewinski, 2 0 Nürnberg programs officer; Councillor Jim Maddox, ACIR; Mayor Shirley Franklin. 0 7 a t l a n t a • s i s t e r • C i t i e s C OMMISSION 2007Committee Reports Annual Report

Atlanta - Port-of-Spain Sister City Committee

v The purpose of the Atlanta/Port of Spain Sister City Committee is to provide a structure to allow people to give expression of their common desire for friendship and understanding, by initiating, devel- oping, promoting and maintaining mutually beneficial relationships. The activities pursued by APSCC shall be educational, cultural, civic and business development in nature. The sister city relationship was established in 1987 and there are 15 committee members.

2007 Highlights

v January – February: The Chair of the APSCC visited Port of Spain, Trinidad where together with the President of the Port of Spain/ Atlanta Sister Cities Network, Ms. Gia Gaspard Taylor, she met with Stephanie Johnson - Port of Spain/Atlanta Sister City Network, Norma Kendall-Hamlet - Chair APSCC, Rebecca Des Marais, Director of Youth Art Connection, Mrs. Gia Gaspard Taylor - Chair Mayor, Murchison Brown, members of the Port of Spain City Council, - Port of Spain/Atlanta Sister City Network members of the Fire Services Department and the Trinidad & Tobago Defense Force to discuss initiatives that could be conducted during v March - Members of APSCC, which include Mr. David Constant of the current year. the Mayor’s Office of International Affairs, Mr. Randy Clouden APSCC/ IACO, held discussions with MedShare International – Nell Diallo, with v Discussions revolved around (a) a gift of medical supplies to be a regard to suggestions for funding the transport of a gift of Medical donated by MedShare International of Atlanta and the impact the supplies to Trinidad and Tobago. gift would have on the citizens of Trinidad and Tobago especially those in rural areas. (b) The celebration of the 20 years of a twinning v May - The Committee was approached by and supported the relationship between Port of Spain and Atlanta and (c) Proposed efforts of the Georgia Caribbean Carnival Development Committee in visit by the Mayor, members of the business community and the Fire their effort to portray the heritage of Caribbean Peoples in Georgia. Services Department. v The Committee participated and supported the celebration of Caribbean Heritage Month. Ms. Stephanie Johnson of the Port of v The Chair, also attended a meeting at National Commission for Spain/Atlanta Sister Cities Network displayed costumes of her Carni- UNESCO with the Port of Spain /Atlanta Sister Cities UNESCO Youth val Band at the 'Meet and Greet' Reception and eloquently advised Club members. Both Sister City Chairpersons joined the UNESCO invited guests of the origin and continuity of Carnival Celebrations in Peace walk with school children (see photo below) led by the Honor- Trinidad and Tobago. able Hazel Manning, Minister of Education, through the City of Port of Spain to the National Stadium. v August - The Chair of APSCC met with the Chief Secretary of the Tobago House of Assembly, Mr. Orville London and Mr. Michael Keens- Dumas to discuss and initiate the process for receiving a gift of Medi- cal supplies and equipment from MedShare International to Tobago.

Mayor Brown presenting gifts to families in Toco after flooding and washing away of bridges as a result of natural disaster - medical supplies and equipment to be delivered to that area

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Atlanta - Port-of-Spain Sister City Committee (Continued)

v October - During the period October 26 through November 01, v A courtesy call, arranged by Mr. Ernie Jones, Trinidad & Tobago So- a delegation from Port of Spain, led by Mayor Murchison Brown ciety of Georgia, was made to Lt. Governor Casey Cagle and members and Mrs. Brown which included, the Consul General of Trinidad and of State Government. Tobago in Miami - Mr. Gerard Greene, The President of the Port of v PASCN presented art work from youth of Trinidad & Tobago and Spain/ Atlanta Sister Cities Network, Mrs. Gia Gaspard Taylor and other Caribbean islands to Mr. Linden Longio of Youth Art Connec- members of the Committee, Ms. Stephanie Johnson, Ms. Rea George, tion for selection and display at the Youth Art Exhibition for the Bejing Ms. Carol Noel and Ms. Chanaaz Noel. Olympic Games. The International Paint Pals program was given a v The delegation was met on arrival by Mr. David Constant, Interna- jump start in 1996 by Mayor Franklin when she was with ACOG. tional Relations Manager, Mayor’s Office, City of Atlanta, Norma-Kend- v The highlight of the visit was the Celebration of the 20th Anniver- all-Hamlet and Randy Clouden, Atlanta/Port of Spain Sister City Com- sary of the twinning relationship between Atlanta and Port of Spain. mittee. A welcome reception was hosted by Mr. and Mrs. Dunston. This event was sponsored by Delta Air Lines.

v There were a number of other sponsored events – Visit to the Aquarium sponsored by the Trinidad & Tobago Association of Geor- gia. Lunch and a Tour of Dekalb County sponsored by the Georgia Caribbean Carnival Committee. Delta Air Lines also sponsored a night at the Fox Theatre.

v November - Hosted international students attending metro-At- lanta colleges and universities for Thanksgiving.

v December – As a result of the visit by the Delegation, Sena- tor Gloria Butler accepted an invitation to be a key speaker at the 'Women Political Platform.” The theme was 'Campaign Financing for Women'. The four days workshop included participants from Nigeria, New York, Colombia, Jamaica, Bahamas, Grenada, Panama, Guatemala, Paraguay, Suriname, Guyana, and Trinidad and Tobago. Mayor Murchison Brown and Mayor Shirley Franklin v The gift of Medical Supplies and Equipment from Messrs Med- share International was delivered to Tobago on December 23, 2007. v During their visit, the delegation met with: Mayor Shirley Franklin, City of Atlanta, to discuss future initiatives of the Organization; Com- v Youth Art - Among the Caribbean entries, Carus Palmer, Matura missioner Donna Owens, Public Works Department, City of Atlanta High School, emerged as winner of the Youth Art Exhibition displayed – focus - Solid Waste Management; and Ms. Kathe Falls, Director, of in Atlanta, with 2nd and 3rd places going to Hillview Boys College, International Trade, G.A. Dept. of Economic Development to discuss Tunapuna- certificates and prizes were presented to the finalists with future Trade Missions and initiatives. the help of the business community.

v Discussions also took place with Mr. Vernon Jones, CEO of Dekalb County Government; Mr. Harold Reheis and Bill Hodges, Premier En- gineers, Solid Waste Management; Commission members of Fulton County and representatives of the Fire Services Department, Solid Waste Management, Police Services/Drug Enforcement, Arts/Culture, Children and Youth programming of that government also met with the delegation.

Opposite - Mayor Franklin meets Mayor Murchison and Mrs. Brown and Members of both sister City Committees. Page 11 2 0 0 7 a t l a n t a • s i s t e r • C i t i e s C OMMISSION 2007Committee Reports Annual Report

Atlanta - Ra'anana Sister City Committee

v Cooperation for economic development continued to build on the strong foundation that already exists between Atlanta and Ra’anana. On October 30, 2007, Mayor Hofree hosted a luncheon in Ra’anana for a trade mission from the American – Israel Chamber of Commerce Southeast chapter. Mr. Tom Glaser, AICCSE President, reported that the special guest was Dr. Orna Berry of Gemini Ventures who is also Chair of the Israel Venture Association. The program also included the testimony of Hezi Ben-Arzi, CEO of Ra’anana-based GPV, regarding his plans to center the company’s U.S. activities in Atlanta.

v On a sad note, Uzi Cohen, Deputy Mayor of Ra’anana, suddenly died of a heart attack on Jan. 18, 2008. Mr. Cohen, age 55 and a supporter of economic development between the two cities, will be greatly missed.

v Cooperation began between Atlanta’s Breman Jewish Museum and the Ra’anana’s Municipal Gallery about sharing traveling exhi- bitions. Mrs. Jane Leavey, Bremen Executive Director, expressed in- terest in working with the Municipal Gallery within the framework Members: Dr. Cedric Suzman, Mr. Nadav Sivon, Mrs. Rena Kahn, Dr. Arnold Heller – Chair, Mrs. Myrna of the sister city relationship. Cohen – Vice Chair v The kindergarten (Gan Aleph) pen pal program continued to make substantial progress. Two teachers, Susan Robinson of the v 2007 was a year of regeneration and growth for the Atlanta Greenfield Hebrew Academy and Lina Bahar of Ra’anana’s Gan – Ra’anana Committee. There was change also as Mrs. Lydia Tziporen School, involved their students in emailing letters to their Weitzman, Ra’anana’s International Affairs Coordinator since 2000, peers as well as planting bushes to honor their partner school. took a position in the private sector. Lydia, a trained journalist, published an article in the Israeli press that described North Atlanta High School’s 1998 student exchange with Ostrovsky High School. This joint project led to creation of the ASRCC and an expanding friendship between the peoples of Atlanta and Ra’anana. Al- though Lydia will be missed, her successor, Ms. Ronit Shoham, has quickly filled a huge pair of shoes.

v The Atlanta – Ra’anana Committee scheduled during 2007 ongoing programs and a variety of joint projects. The major undertaking was to have been Ra’anana’s attendance at the ASCC’s Greenspace and Public Transit Conference, now re-scheduled for March 12 – 14, 2008. The ARSCC looks forward to receiving Mrs. Oshra Koren, a City Council member and Chairperson of Ra’anana’s International Relations Committee and Ms. Lia Rudnicki, Deputy City Engineer. Mrs. Rudnicki will presenter the renovation of Ahuza St., Ra’anana’s main thoroughfare. The photograph opposite il- lustrates one of the streetscape improvements designed to create a grand pedestrian boulevard. Ahuza Street renovation described by Ms. Rudnicki at Green Space Conference. Page 12 2 0 0 7 a t l a n t a • s i s t e r • C i t i e s C OMMISSION 2007Committee Reports Annual Report

Atlanta - Ra'anana Sister City Committee (Continued)

v On March 15, the Ra’anana Committee joined 1,200 people who attended "An Evening for Israel" at Trinity Church in Powder Springs. The aim of the program was to build on the commitment of Christian Zionists in the Metro Atlanta area and their support for Israel. The Ra’anana Committee attended to show solidarity and encourage Christian tourism to Ra’anana and Israel. The gathering was addressed by Mr. Reda Mansour, Israel Consul General, Mr. Daniel Seaman, Press Director for the Prime Minister of Israel and Reverend Earl Cox.

v The twinning between Shearith Israel Congregation in Atlanta and Congregation Masorti in Ra’anana continued to move forward. On April 28, Shearith Israel members Ronnie and Howard Zand- man attended a morning service, read Torah and were honored by Rabbi Resnick with a reception. Eden and Rob Landow brought their children Marti and Jay to Israel May 24 – July 3 to prepare them for Bar and B’nai Mitzvah. Masorti Rabbi Reuben Resnick helped Marti and Jay finish up their lessons for their July 28 celebration at Shearith Israel. Participating in the March 2008 Economic Development Conference in Atlanta - Ms. Lia Rudnicki, Deputy City Engineer. and Mrs. Oshra Koren, a City Council member and Chairperson of v The Ra’anana Committee also lent its support to a new local Ra’anana’s International Relations Committee. Do Jewish program being established by My Israel leader Rabbi Ephraim Davidson. On June 13, Dr. Arnold Heller, Ra’anana Chair, met with the My Israel steering committee to discuss ways and means of building the Do Jewish program.

v The mass murder at Virginia Tech by a deranged student sadly included Dr. Liviu Librescu of Ra’anana. Dr. Librescu, a Professor of Engineering Science, sacrificed his life by bravely drawing the attention of the gunman in order to save his students. The Ra’anana Committee expressed its sympathy to the Librescu family and hopes that the professor be remembered as a model for young people around the world.

(Photo opposite: Dr. Heller received an award from the Port-of-Spain, Trinidad Sister City Committee that recognized him for service to the committee for organizing past student exchanges, joint business education programs, and support for local activities.

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Atlanta - Rio de Janeiro Sister City Committee

v During the last three years, we had the opportunity to have Brazilians directing the Atlanta – Rio de Janeiro Sister Cities Com- mittee for the first time. In this period, we constantly worked to optimize our targets for the committee, which were, and continue to be: 1) economic development, 2) exchange of students and high school teachers, 3) tourism and investment, 4) cultural events, social projects, 5) social and cultural integration between the two cities.

v We held nine planning meetings at the City Hall, where active members frequently participated, and many visitors and friends of the committee joined in. In these meetings, we reviewed our committee status and continued planning for the two major events of the year: the Second Biennial 2007 Award Ceremony and Anniver- sary Gala and a trip to Rio de Janeiro for the 2007 Pan American Games to deliver a major gift from the Atlanta chapter to the Rio chapter. At the Second Biennial 2007 Award Ceremony and Anniversary Gala. From left: Committee Chair v Our chair, Ms. Wilma Kruger, forged plans for these two major Wilma Kruger, Mayor Shirley Franklin, Committee Co-Chair Franklin McGruder events with Co-Chair Mr. Franklin McGruder; both presented a committee gift to the people of Rio de Janeiro at the games. At an- v The event was planned by Atlanta-Rio committee members, other meeting entitled a Carnival in Rio Presentation, a slide-show Global Organization and Planning Services. It featured a feast designed by Sheldon Schiffer, was presented to the members and on of Brazilian cuisine from the local restaurant Churrascaria Sal guests. Later in the year, we had a presentation of Capoeira by an Grosso, and a fashion show from SGO Fashion Extravaganza by Atlanta group who demonstrated the practice of the Afro-Brazilian Sandra Gray, and artistic creations from Bruehmueller, Smith, Stan martial art. Another slide-show presentation at one of the meetings Woodard, Danielle Jordão, and Joarez Filho. The celebration was about the City of Goiania gave exceptional insight about the state filled with a bold Brazilian reception, dinner with cultural sights, of origin of most Brazilians in Atlanta. The sponsors for these meet- sounds, smells, tastes, and flavors, that allowed the participants ings were: Oba Brazilian Restaurant, Churrascaria Sal Grosso, Doce to enjoy the tantalizing experience of Brazilian culture, talented Sabor and Milca Moura Events. singing, and heartfelt music and film. It increased the public awareness, facilitated economic, social, cultural and civic exchanges, and v One of the most important events of the year was the Second highlighted Brazilian life in Atlanta and Rio. Biennial 2007 Award Ceremony and Anniversary Gala, hosted by Atlanta – Rio de Janeiro Sister Cities Committee and Benedita da v There was a special silent auction that included travel packages, Silva Foundation at the intimate setting of the downtown Atlanta art pieces, and a C-Series coupe from Mercedes-Benz of Buckhead. City Hall Atrium. The theme for the event was “Weaving Cultures The Dekalb International Training Center, Co-Founders, Former Together, Brazilian Atlanta Awards Ceremony and Gala”. The Honor- Ambassador Andrew Young and Dr. March Daniel Guterkunst were ary Chairperson Ms. Xernona Clayton, President and CEO of the invited to join in sponsoring young athletes from the Brazilian Trumpet Awards Foundation, Inc. led the event to honor the mayor Athletic Confederation (Confederação Brasileira de Atletismo) of Atlanta, the Honorable Shirley Franklin, as well as the mayor of to attend the events as they competed in the Dekalb Classic Rio de Janeiro, the Honorable Cesar Maia. Ms. Carolyn Young served (www.dekalbclassic.us). as the erudite Mistress of Ceremony for the elegant evening. The proceeds for the event went to the Projeto Oficina do Outeiro of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (www.oficioadoouteiro.org.br), a non-govern- mental educational organization that promotes artistic activities for underprivileged minority young people of Brazil. Page 14 2 0 0 7 a t l a n t a • s i s t e r • C i t i e s C OMMISSION 2007Committee Reports Annual Report

Atlanta - Rio de Janeiro Sister City Committee (continued)

v Later in the year, we received Mr. Vin Martin, the Jamaican Honorary Consul and chair of the Atlanta-Montego Bay Sister Cities Committee, who lectured about obtaining a “503” Charitable Foundation status. Later, Camille R. Love of the Atlanta Office of Cultural Affairs addressed the Committee about current arts events in Atlanta as well as ones to come in the near future.

v During the October and November meetings, we nominated and voted on candidates for open positions and made our final plans for our 2007 Christmas Party. We concluded with Brazilian guitar classics performed by Roberto Gonçalves, and closed the year with our 2007 Christmas Party at the newly opened International Center for Business Relations at the Galleria in Mayor Shirley Franklin with three young athletes of the Brazilian Athletic Confederation. Atlanta, Georgia.

v During the 2007 Pan American Games, the painting Celebration v Furthermore, the accomplishments of the year demonstrate of Sports in Brazil by Steve Allen was donated to the people of Bra- our significant activity in the international community of Atlanta zil. The unveiling of the artwork took place at Quilombo Campinho and the attainment of non-profit status for the year to come. da Independência in Parati, Brazil, when the Pan American torch first entered the state of Rio de Janeiro. The unveiling was greeted by the presence of federal and state authorities, representatives of Atlanta DITC, as well as of the artist Steve Allen. The painting is permanently exhibited in the state soccer stadium of Maracanã, Rio de Janeiro. Brazilian authorities, United States consulate authorities and Ms. Wilma Kruger representing Atlanta Rio de Janeiro Sister City Committee, attended the ceremony in which the artwork was publicly unveiled. In response to this event, we received two letters sent by the State Secretary of Social Welfare and Human Rights, Benedita da Silva and the State Secretary of Tourism and Sports Eduardo Paes that express appreciation from our counterparts in Rio de Janeiro.

The Rio de Janeiro branch of the Atlanta-Rio Sister Cities with the representative for the Mayor of Rio, Mr. Catonni (third from right)

Opposite: At the the 2007 Pan American Games. From left: Committee Chair Wilma Kruger, Rio de Janeiro State Secretary of Social Welfare and Human Rights Benedita da Silva, Rio de Janeiro State Secretary of Tourism and Sports Eduardo Paes and a United States State Department official.

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Atlanta - Salcedo Sister City Committee v On February 27, 2007 members and guests of the Dominican International Association and the Atlanta-Salcedo Sister Cities Committee commemorated the 163th Dominican Independence Day at the Atlanta City Hall Atrium. v On behalf of the citizens of Atlanta, Councilman Kwanza Hall presented a proclamation to recognize the contributions that Dominican nationals have made to the economic growth and well-being of the city. v The Dominican International Association, the Atlanta-Salcedo Sister Cities Committee and the Dominican American Chamber of Commerce in Georgia supported the first Trade Mission to Atlanta of the American Chamber of Commerce of the Dominican Republic.

v A delegation of Atlanta residents visited the City of Salcedo to participate in the commemoration of three Dominican heroines, the Mirabal Sisters, assassinated by the Trujillo’s dictatorship on November 25, 1960. In 1994, the United Nations declared that day as the International Day of Non Violence against Women. This year, the City of Salcedo organized the first annual Mirabal Sisters Cultural Festival. Photographs show the Dominican Republic trade mission being welcomed to Atlanta by local organizations. The Mirabal Sisters Cultural Festival v The Georgia Department of Commerce and Economic Development gave a warm welcoming to the Dominican delegation at the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce (see photo below).

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Atlanta - Salcedo Sister City Committee

v The Atlanta delegation attended a mass to honor the life of the v In his first business visit to Georgia, the Consul General of the three sisters and visited the Mirabal Museum. Congresswoman Mi- Dominican Republic in Florida, Manuel Almanzar was received in nou Tavarez Mirabal, daughter of one of the heroines, shared with a courtesy meeting by the Mayor of Atlanta, the Honorable Shirley the delegation and answered questions about the history and the Franklin. Victor Ramirez, Chair of the Atlanta-Salcedo Sister Cities present of the Dominican Republic (see photograph below). Committee, the Vice Consul Soulangel Santana and Waldemar Ser- rano were introduced to the Mayor’s Office by Claire McLeveighn, Director of External Affairs and International Relations of the City of Atlanta. They talked about the cultural and commercial bonds between the City of Atlanta and the Dominican Republic.

v Council Members and the Mayor of Salcedo, the Honorable Juan Roque Jerez delighted the Atlanta delegation taking them to a renowned local restaurant to taste delicious Dominican food (see photograph below).

Mayor Franklin meets Consul General Almanzar (right), accompanied by Victor Ramirez.

Below: The Atlanta delegation that attended the Mirabal Sisters Cultural Festival in Salcedo, Domini- can Republic. They met with the former Vice President of the Dominican Republic, Dr. Jaime David Fernandez Mirabal [fourth from the left].

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Atlanta - Toulouse Sister City Committee

v The Atlanta Toulouse Sister City Committee had an outstanding year of activities, project, programs and a trip to Toulouse for the group. The dues paid membership is 108.

v The officers installed in April 2007 were: Chairman Betty Davis, Vice Chair Programs Sherry Quayle; VP Hospitality Mary Jane McCraney; Secretary Mary Kitchens; Treasurer Carol Evans. Other Board members were Linda Borchers, Frances Penn, John Lyons and Eric Wallens.

v The highlight of the year was the biennial trip to Toulouse with 16 members of the group. They were hosted in the homes of Toulouse- Mayor Shirley Franklin with Betty Atlanta Sister City members for three days. Toulouse City Hall hosted a Davis - Chair ATSCC reception for the group which was attended by the American Ambas- v May 15 we met at the home of architect Rodney Cook and he sador. Before arriving in Toulouse the group toured Nice and the area spoke to us about the Millennium Monument and museum project of Provence for 7 days with many private receptions and tours. at Atlantic Station. We made a contribution to this project.

v In June we had a cooking class and luncheon with Chef Anthony Ferre. We also had a French lesson for the group traveling to France.

v In July we entertained a guest from France and took part in several Bastille Day and World Cup activities. Several of us took our guest to North GA.

v Sept. 5 we had a gathering at a home on Tuxedo Court to honor our past presidents. Franklyn Skidmore entertained us with a mini concert of opera music. It was very well attended.

v On Sept. 11 we had a Peace Concert as had been suggested by the Sister City Commission. It was Chamber Music and was very well received.

v Sept. 13- Sept 24 was the trip to Provence and Toulouse.

Atlanta group visits Toulouse v Oct. 6 we took a bus trip to North Georgia and went to two wineries. We had five guests from France with us. It was a terrific day. v The main social event for the group for the past 6 years has been the Fete des Rois celebrated in the French manner.This 12th day of v All through the year we have attended Culture Club, which is a Christmas/January 6 event features the traditional Kings Cake includ- reception with a speaker once a month. ing a feve (prize) that designates its finder as “King” of the party. The v In November we joined the French American Chamber of Com- gift swapping game each year has been a fun tradition with members merce for a Beaujolais Nouveau tasting and auction. bringing their least favorite Christmas gift to exchange. v We had a wonderful evening at the home of Ray Pierotti, an artist v In February as a group we toured the 20th annual Southeastern and one of our members. Flower Show, which had a French theme this year. v In December we were entertained at a party by one of our mem- v In March we had a lecture on Napoleon on the Nile - Egyptomania bers on Dec. 13 and again on Dec. 24. and the Decorative Arts by an Art Historian Frederica Todd Harlow. v In addition to the formal activities we have been called on several v April brought an Easter Brunch at the home of one of our mem- times to help students from Atlanta going to France, or students bers. We were also invited to the residence of the Consul General, from Toulouse coming to Atlanta. It was a very busy year. Philippe Ardanaz, for the installation of officers. v The Toulouse Group operates a web site. Page 18 2 0 Please visit www. sprawls.org/ATSCC 0 7 a t l a n t a • s i s t e r • C i t i e s C OMMISSION 2007 Annual Report

Members of the Atlanta Sister Cities Commission

From left to right: Jeff Breedlove, GA State Coordinator, Sister Cities International; Victor Ramirez, Salcedo, Dominican Republic; Dr. Margo Alexander, Ancient Olympia Greece; Dr. Augustine Esogbue, Lagos, Nigeria; Teri Simmons, ASCC Chair; Dr. Charleise Young, Cotonou, Benin; Wilma Kruger, Rio de Janiero, Brazil; Betty Davis, Toulouse, France; Shean Atkins, Nürnberg, Germany; Samuel Bacote (appointed); Dr. Cedric Suzman, Southern Center for International Studies - (appointed); David Smith, Newcastle-Upon-Tyne, Great Britain; David Papava, Tbilisi, Republic of Georgia; David Constant, Office of the Mayor of Atlanta.

Produced by the Atlanta Sister Cities Commission Public Relations Committee For information on Atlanta Sister Cities, contact Mayor's Office of International Affairs 55 Trinity Avenue, Atlanta GA 30303

www.atlantaga.gov/International/SisterCities.aspx

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