Sister Cities Commission

ATLANTA SISTER CITIES COMMISSION

2013 ANNUAL REPORT ATLANTA SISTER CITIES ASCC COMMISSION

The Atlanta Sister Cities Commission

Date of Inauguration: 1974 Web site: http://www.atlantaga.gov/index.aspx?page=642

About The ASCC

The Atlanta Sister Cities Commission (ASCC) was Elections are held annually to select a Vice Chair, a chartered by the City of Atlanta and codified in Secretary and a Treasurer. Each elected officer serves Atlanta City Ordinance No. 1979-71. The a one-year term. Elected officials of the Commission organization is managed by a Chair appointed by are restricted to two consecutive terms in office. the Mayor of Atlanta and ratified by a majority of the Officers include Charleise Young, Ph.D, Secretary and Atlanta Sister Cities Atlanta City Council. Mayor Reed and prior Mayor Victor Ramirez, Treasurer. Franklin supported the The Commission is appointment of Teri supported by Simmons as Chair. Ancient Olympia – members of the Arnold Heller served as Greece Mayor's Office staff Vice Chair in 2013. Brussels – Belgium who participate in The full 'board' of the monthly and special Bucharest – Commission meetings, help shape Romania comprises the Chair, the Commission's Cotonou – Benin three additional policy and act as Mayoral appointees liaison with the Mayor. Daegu – Korea and two members In 2013, two new Fukuoka – Japan appointed by the City appointments were Council. In addition, made at the Mayor’s Lagos – Nigeria the chairpersons of office—below. each Sister City Committee, or their designee, serve Montego Bay – Jamaica ASCC maintains a web site with annual reports, on the Commission. Newcastle-Upon-Tyne – information on each of the sister cities and details of Great Britain The Mayor's appointed members in 2013 were the process of becoming a sister city. Cedric Suzman, DBA and Samuel Bacote. Nϋrnberg – Germany Port-of-Spain – Trinidad Rio de Janeiro – Brazil The Mayor’s Office of International Affairs Ra'anana – Israel Salcedo – Dominican In 2013, Claire Collobert Angelle cultural initiatives with local, international trade and economic was appointed as Director of national and international development initiatives and Republic International Affairs for the City of agencies. organizes and manages global Atlanta. events and relationships. Salzburg – Austria Bettina Gardner was also Taipei – Taiwan In her role, she will plan, develop appointed as the new Noah Downer, formerly and implement international International Affairs Coordinator International Affairs Liaison for Tbilisi – Republic of activities on behalf of the city. In for the Office of the Mayor. As the Mayor is now Chief of addition, her duties will include International Affairs Coordinator, Protocol in the Office of Georgia facilitating trade, economic she coordinates marketing and International Affairs. Noah has Toulouse – France development, tourism and communications, promotes supported ASCC throughout his tenure with the city of Atlanta. Atlanta Sister Cities Commission activities

Themes and objectives: Programs

The Atlanta Sister Cities Commission (ASCC) is an Atlanta Sister City Commission Student Exchange organization whose objective is to form friendship links between the Atlanta community and similar The objective of the program is to foster exchange of knowledge in practical aspects of jurisdictions in other countries so that citizens can globalization; encourage people to people connections, partnerships and joint pro- express their goodwill and common desire for jects; and to expose students and teachers to opportunities to work with international friendship and the development of understanding through a variety of mutually beneficial programs. organizations.

The ASCC encourages the participation of a cross- Atlanta Sister City Commission Economic Development Conference section of citizens in the development of international relationships. The Atlanta Sister Cities Commission’s focus on economic development is aimed at facilitating the exchange of economic development practices and increasing aware- ASCC manages the process of developing Atlanta’s ness of economic conditions among Atlanta’s sister cities. The format of the conference sister city affiliations, and establishes and supports a is based around a best practice sharing and case study methodology that invites politi- sister city committee for each recognized link. cal and professional participants to share best practices around key themes and tracks. ASCC has a vigorous program of exchange activities with its sister cities, including educational pro- The program has demonstrated that its best practice sharing methodology comple- grams, cultural exchanges, philanthropy, economic ments and extends the role of city promotional agencies by sharing knowledge of development and social development. sustainable practices among global cities. A number of practice areas have been ex- plored at these conferences including Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Green- ASCC members’ pro- er Cities: Public Transit and Green Space Policies, Fostering a Productive Business Cli- grams have been recognized by Sister Cities mate by Public- Private Partnerships, Identifying City Development Challenges, Lever- International and award- aging Educational Institutions for Economic Development, Creating Greater Quality of ed for their community Life and Increasing Economic Vitality of Underserved Areas via Sustainable Urban Re- outreach, economic and generation, City Planning for Success, Tourism and Cultural Institutions as Economic educational develop- Development Tools, Promoting Health & Safer Living in Urban Areas, and Leveraging ment. Airports for Economic Growth.

Atlanta-Montego Bay Health Mission Award

Highlights and accomplishments ASCC’s most recent exchange of students from Atlanta’s sister cities took the theme “Training the Next Generation of Sister City Program Leaders”. Over 30 participants came from Atlanta’s sister cities of Montego Bay, Jamaica; Newcastle, United Kingdom; Nurnberg, Germany; Salcedo, Dominican Republic, Taipei, Taiwan; and Toulouse, France.

Sister Cities International has previously presented its Youth Leadership Development Award to ASCC member Dr Arnold Heller recognizing the creation ASCC is an affiliate of Sister Cities of student exchanges with secondary schools International (SCI), the association through a joint global business education program of sister city, county and state aimed at creating long term friendships that programs in the U.S. would help build new bridges and expand international trade. Photo: At the Sister Cities International Annual SCI has twice recognized and Conference, Teri Simmons accepts the award for awarded ASCC for serving as a Sister Cities International also honored ASCC for an Innovation: Sustainable Development on behalf of model to other Sister City outstanding sister city economic development the ASCC. Left to right: Patrick Madden, President & programs, demonstrating program. Top honors recognize programs CEO, Sister Cities International; Margaret Jankowsky, excellence and innovation on throughout the U.S. doing work around the globe. Professional Training & Coaching Consultant, sustainable development issues Nuremberg, Germany (Atlanta’s sister city); Teri and fostering international “These awards showcase the best work for cultural Simmons, Chair, Atlanta Sister Cities Commission; cooperation and understanding understanding in our network,” said Patrick Madden, Mike Hyatt, Chair, Sister Cities International Board of through its volunteer President and CEO of Sister Cities International. Directors. (Photograph by Harrison photography). organization “These are the communities with Sister Cities that are blazing trails.” Ancient City of

Olympia GREECE

Atlanta - Ancient City of Olympia Sister City Committee

Date of Affiliation: 1994 Chair: Dr. Margo Alexander ; Co-Chair: Mrs. Maria Mandekos Sharp

Ancient City of Olympia Profile Olympia is one of the most popular and visited is still the German Archaeological Institute at Athens destinations in the Peloponnese, as this was where that oversees the site. the ancient Olympic Games were held. It was a The city of Olympia is famous for its impressive festivity, important not only to this region, but the statue of Zeus, a statue of great size made of gold rest of Greece, and the and ivory, within a entire world. temple built in honor of Olympia is situated in an the deity. Map: Greka.com area surrounded by hills Olympia is one of the and mountains in such a most popular • In close proximity to way that they provide a destinations for tourists in Ancient Olympia is very peculiar and Greece. Cruise ships dock the modern city, interesting background at the nearby port of which bears the same to this ancient spot. name and has about Katakolo and bus visitors 11,000 population. The modern history of the site. The village of Olympia began with the Olympia itself is a • The municipality Ar- chaia Olympia rediscovery of the collection of tourist ("Ancient Olympia") ancient city in 1766. But shops, cafes, restaurants was formed at the it was not until 1829 that the first scientific and a historical museum of the Olympic Games. 2011 local govern- excavations were begun in the vast field of majestic In 2004 Olympia completed development of ment reform by the ruins that dot the landscape where the ancient city roadwork, museum renovations and sports facilities merger of four former of Olympia Greece once thrived. municipalities. for Athens’ hosting of the Olympic Games. The Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. men's and women's shot put competition were held • The Olympic flame is Archaeologists from Germany became responsible at the restored stadium in Olympia. lit at the ancient site for excavation and preservation in the 1970s, and it and carried by run- Source text and photo: Greece.com ners to the city where the games are held.

• Olympia Greece host- The Atlanta—Olympia link ed the ancient Greece Olympics every four The Atlanta-Ancient Olympia relationship by 1994. The In November 1992, an "Olympic" years ("olympiad" is the Greek word Greece relationship has its origins purpose was to promote good olive tree was presented by the meaning a period of in a vision by Mayor Maynard relations between the two Citizens of Olympia, Greece in four years) beginning Jackson and Mr. Louis Zakas in countries during the Centennial honor of the 1996 Centennial in 776 B.C. and lasting 1992 after the City of Atlanta was Games. The Atlanta Ancient Olympic Games in Atlanta . It for more than 900 awarded the 1996 Summer Olympia Sister City Committee resides in the Atlanta Botanical years. Olympic Games. The cities of maintains connections with the Gardens. Atlanta and Ancient Olympia city and organizations in each formed their sister city location. Atlanta—Olympia activities

Themes and objectives: Activities

The Committee’s ultimate plan is to promote: In January, the committee hosted a “Vasilopita Celebration” for all its committee members. This is a celebration of St. Basil and the beginning of the New Year. The lucky • Cultural Activities coin was won and best wishes were given to all members. • Economic Development Kai tou xronou! • Trade Opportunities • Youth Programs/ Education In May, the Ancient Olympia Committee was one of the proud sponsors of an event at

the Carter Center Library where Ambassador Gianna Angelopoulos, President of the The committee’s general program mainly focuses on activities that center around Greek traditions. Athens 2004 Olympics Organization Commit- These include meetings and conferences on the tee, presented her future of Hellenism, film documentary, music, youth book "My Greek Dra- education and supporting the Consul General sta- ma”. Following the tioned here in Atlanta. presentation, a book

signing was held along with a reception to meet Ambassador Angelopoulos.

Photo (L-R): Maria Man- dekos Sharp and Mar- go Alexander at book signing with Ambassa- dor Gianna Angelpou- los.

Flag: Greece.com

Highlights in 2013

It was with great pleasure that the committee was one of the sponsors along with the Greek Orthodox Cathedral of the Annunciation and Lykion ton Ellinidon in a screening of an Original Documentary film “SMYRNA: The Destruction of a Cosmopolitan City -1900-1922 with an introduction by the Director, Maria Illiou.

The documentary about the former city on the Photo above: Maria Sharp with coasts of Western Anatolia brings to the forefront a documentary director Maria Iliou part of history that has been ignored for too long. and Louis Arthur Ruprecht Jr.

Photo top opposite: Julia The event was held Kalinoglou, Maria Sharp, Maria on November 7 and Iliou, Louis Arthur Ruprecht Jr., following the Margo Alexander and Consul of screening, a reception Greece, Mr. Vasillas Goulousis. was held for all to meet the director,

Photo: Attendees of the screening at the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Cathedral. Daegu REPUBLIC OF KOREA

Atlanta - Daegu Sister City Committee

Date of Affiliation: 1981 Chair: John J. Lee Contact: [email protected]

Daegu Profile Daegu is the birthplace of SAMSUNG. In 1938 Lee excellent human resources. Byung-chul started a small trading company call Daegu has rich experience in major international Samsung Sanghoe in Daegu, which grew into events from sporting to water and energy issues: We Samsung Group of today. It clearly shows that hosted four matches of the 2002 Korea/Japan FIFA Daegu has played a World Cup, the 2013 leading role in Summer Universiade developing the Korean Game, the 2011 IAAF economy. Map: Wikipedia World Championships Also, Daegu is a city in Athletics, the 2013 • Daegu is located in where Warren Buffett World Energy Congress south-eastern Korea, sees a business and have prepared the 282km south of Seoul opportunity by 2015 World Water and 121km north of investing in TaeguTec, Forum. Busan. The city covers a cutting tool 886 square kilome- As for core industrial manufacturing ters. projects, we have been company, “Daegu is an developing Daegu • Daegu is the third attractive city National Industrial Park largest city, popula- equipped with a solid investment infrastructure, and where next-generation electronics and tion 2.5 million. As a I will seriously consider investing more in this city in city of education, it communication, high-tech machinery, future the future”. has produced figures automobiles and renewable energy industries are in politics, economy, Politically, Daegu is famous for producing several invited; Daegu Technopolis as an R & D hub has administration and Korean presidents including Park Chung-hee, Chun been established. Its target sectors are renewable arts: the first Korean Doo-hwan, Roh Tae-woo and the incumbent energy, future automobiles, IT convergence, new female president Park Geun-hye and found- president Park Geun-hye. They were born and materials and mechatronics. Daegu-Gyeongbuk er and former chair- educated in and around the city. It is because Daegu Medical Cluster is an R & D center for the medical man Kim Woo-jung of has been the center of education and we possess industry. the Daewoo Group.

• The service sector occupies 71.4%, manufacturing – 22.9% The Atlanta—Daegu link and construction – 5.35%. Manufacturing The Atlanta-Daegu Sister City The sister city relationship including mayoral visits, citizen consists of machinery Committee has a continuous between Daegu and Atlanta was and school exchanges, sports and and metal, textiles, history of promoting friendship initiated when Mayor Maynard cultural activities, professional throughout each Mayorality from Jackson visited Daegu and signed training, trade, technical and auto parts and elec- Ambassador Andrew Young and the agreement in November economic development tronic industries. Honorable Maynard Jackson 1981. programs. through to Mayors Shirley Franklin and Kasim Reed. In over thirty years, a wide range of initiatives have taken place Atlanta—Daegu activities

Themes and objectives: Exchanges

Following visit of the chair Lee of the Atlanta- Daegu has invited Atlanta officials, students, cultural and business teams and urban Daegu Sister City Committee to Daegu, the Com- agriculture experts to various programs including the Daegu International Youth Camp mittee has established the following objectives: in August, the Korea Urban Agriculture Expo in September, the Daegu Sister Cities Day • Facilitate practical cooperation in various sec- in October, etc. tors: youth, city officials, business, music, culture and arts, exhibitions & conferences. The International Affairs and Trade Division, Daegu city offered an internship for an • Daegu International Youth Camp American student for September to November in collaboration with Kyungpook Na- • City official training program tional University. One of her jobs was to promote amicable relations with the U.S. Army • Business meetings and participating in exhibi- stationed in Daegu by organizing a cultural event and helping better cooperation be- tions tween the local community and the U.S. Army. • Daegu International Musical/ Opera/ Bodypainting Festival • Daegu Sister Cities Day Photo right: American interns visit Daegu Water • Korean Urban Agriculture Expo Works.

• World Energy Congress in 2013 Photo left: Korean Overseas Business Leaders Conference in Seoul, Korea.

L-R Ms. Yonni Kim, Ms. Lee Shreve, Vice Chair, Mr. Keyman Nam, Washington State Senator Paul Shin, Chair John Lee.

Highlights in 2013 On October 28 Chair John Lee visited Daegu City facilities and performances. Therefore, both sides Hall and met Vice Mayor Kim Yon-chang and can explore potential cooperation in this field. Director General Ahn Guk-jung of the Economy & Trade Bureau to discuss how to revitalize mutually Thirdly, local government’s dedication to world beneficial cooperation between the two cities. issues such as energy and water matters. Daegu held the World Energy Congress where 7,000 energy Daegu’s Vice Mayor introduced major annual CEOs, high-ranking government officials and energy- international events in which Atlanta could related people gathered together to find solutions participate: Firstly, the youth exchange. It is very for energy matters. important to provide an opportunity for young people to understand foreign culture by Daegu will host the World Water Forum in 2015 to On Oct. 28, 2013 Chair John Lee experiencing it themselves. Therefore, Daegu has discuss how to prevent water shortage and water- visited Daegu Sister City. held an annual International Youth Camp where this related problems. Experts from Atlanta will be year 70 students from six different cities participated invited to this event. L-R: Director Charlie Bae, Daegu in and learned basic Korean language, traditional Vice Mayor Kim Yon-Chang, Chair musical instruments, Taekwondo, K-pop dance and Lastly, business opportunity and participating in John Lee, Mr. Do- Hyun Kim, culture. With this experience, one of the participants mutual exhibitions. Since Daegu is an industrial city, Director General Ahn Gok-Jung. from Milan, Italy got an internship in Milan both cities can have business meetings to find Municipality. potential partners and provide information on major exhibitions in each location. Secondly, cultural exchanges. Daegu has hosted an annual international musical festival and international opera festival in June and in October respectively. Apart from Seoul, the capital city of the nation, Daegu has the most profound cultural Fukuoka JAPAN

Atlanta - Fukuoka Sister City Committee

Date of Affiliation: 2005 Chair: Co-chaired by Ms. Sue Lin Lange & Ms. Keiko Scott Contact: [email protected]

Fukuoka Profile

In 1889, the government issued a regulation for metropolitan features, Fukuoka City also has a municipalization and parochialism. The great proud tradition and a rich cultural heritage. It controversy occurred over the name of the city. remains a city with its own distinct character and Originally, the area was called Hakata; however, in charm, providing a diverse range of attractions to 1600 a Japanese warlord, Nagamasa Kuroda, named visitors including urban tourism inside the city this area Fukuoka in tribute to his ancestors' land, proper, resort tourism at nearby resorts, historical called Bizen Fukuoka tourism to see sights • Fukuoka city is locat- (which is now such as the Korokan ed at 130° 24’ 06” E. longitude and 33° 35’ Okayama). Since then, guest house or the Gold 24” N. latitude. the eastern area of the Seal, festival tourism with city from the River the excitement of the • The climate is warm, Naka had been called Yamakasa, Dontaku or with an average an- Hakata, the port and Asian Month, and nual temperature of merchant district, and culinary tourism drawing 17.3°C (as of 2009). the western area on the rich bounty of the • The population con- Fukuoka, a proud Genkai Sea. In recent tinues to grow, reach- samurai town. The years, the city has ing an estimated 1.45 locals chose the name welcomed a growing million in 2009. of their city, Fukuoka; number of domestic and • Industry in Fukuoka is but the name Hakata remains in many areas such as international visitors as the hub of government, primarily tertiary, with the traditional crafts, the railway station, foods, etc. economy, culture and fashion in Kyushu. wholesaling, retailing, In addition to its beautiful natural surroundings, food and beverages, Source: Website of Fukuoka City, and Photo: Provided by the City of Fukuoka. and service sectors. such as Hakata Bay, and its sophisticated Manufacturing industries continue traditional craftsmanship including Hakata dolls and Hakata-ori tex- The Atlanta—Fukuoka link tiles.

Fukuoka became the 18th Sister welcome dinner, a courtesy visit Photo: Bullet Train that runs between Fukuoka and Kagoshima (Sister State of Georgia). City of Atlanta in February 2005, to the Mayor, and sightseeing. after enjoying the special relationship with Atlanta as a In July, usually four 11-year old Partnership City for 12 years. children, selected by the Japan- America Society of Georgia, In late March every year, one to participate in the fully-funded several high school students from program, the APCC (Asian-Pacific Fukuoka visit Atlanta, where the Children’s Convention), to students enjoy the American Fukuoka. The Atlanta-Fukuoka school life and home stay. The Committee assists with the committee makes arrangements All photographs Copyright selection process. ©2014Fukuoka City. All Rights Reserved for their stay in Atlanta, a Atlanta—Fukuoka activities

Themes and objectives: Activities

Our activities have mainly been focused on student In March, 20 members with two guests from North Atlanta High School (NAHS) got exchange programs and participation in the cultur- together for a dinner. Later in the year, six Fukuoka’s high school students visited Atlan- al events such as JapanFest, the largest Japanese ta with two Fukuoka City government staff. The students enjoyed American school life festival in the U.S. Southeast. at NAHS, home stays at local students’ houses, and a welcome dinner hosted by the Committee.

In July, four children (11-years old) and two former participants from the Atlanta area visited Fukuoka on the APCC program as Junior Ambassadors.

In September, we participated in the JapanFest at Gwinnett Center by setting up a booth to sell unique Fukuoka goods such as the Hakata dolls and Hakata weave fabric donated by the Sister City Committee in Fukuoka. The proceeds support our student exchange program here in Atlanta. Japanfest 2013 Thanks to our volunteers, we were able to share information about Fukuoka with many (Photo: JapanFest 2013) festival attendees. We also set up a booth at the Gibbs Garden’s Japanese festival in November.

In October, the delegation from the Fukuoka Chamber of Commerce and Industry visited Atlanta. One Fukuoka City government official also joined and had a meeting with us at the Japan-America Society of Georgia and discussed our future joint activities.

Highlights in 2013 Welcoming high school students from Fukuoka and In March, two officials who accompanied high the participating in JapanFest are always our two school students had different occasions to discuss biggest activities. In addition, particularly in 2013, cultural activities and exchange programs with we had more meetings with Fukuoka City Fukuoka group members. government officials than ever before. In the October’s previously mentioned meeting, Kazumi Leedy (Treasurer/Secretary) and Keiko Scott (Co-chair) along with Yoshi Domoto, Executive Director of the Japan-America Society of Georgia, attended to discuss the APCC program, high school students’ exchange, and more involvement for 2014 & 2015 JapanFest. We cannot forget to mention that Ms. Sue Renfroe who had been In July, Keiko Scott visited Fukuoka City Hall and our Chair for a long time retired as discussed cultural activities and possible college Chair in July. She was a strong level exchange with the International Affairs’ staff. leader who maintained our major In December, Tom Yamamoto (newly appointed activities and brought members Economic Development Head) visited Fukuoka to together. Without her leadership, meet staff members of the International Economy & the Atlanta-Fukuoka Sister City Content Industry Department and the International Committee would not have Affairs Department of the city government, and also grown and sustained itself so the Fukuoka Chamber of Commerce & Industry to successfully. Please allow us to start initial discussions for future possible trade and express our sincere appreciation investment opportunities with Atlanta. to Sue in this report. Photo: Six High School Students from Fukuoka welcomed by N. Atlanta High School parents & Fukuoka Sister City Committee members at the Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. Lagos NIGERIA

Atlanta - Lagos Sister City Committee

Date of Affiliation: 1974 Chair: (Atlanta—ALSCC) Professor Emeritus Augustine O. Esogbue; (Lagos—LASCC) Mr. E. Chike Nwanze Contact: [email protected]

Lagos Profile

Lagos, the most populous city in Nigeria, sixth single most ambitious cultural extravaganza of largest in the world, and projected to become the peoples of African descent ever held anywhere in third by 2015, has a population density that is the world. second only to Mumbai, India. Lagos boasts Nigeria’s best known museums Situated along the Gulf of Guinea on the Atlantic hosting the original exhibition of the famous 2000 Ocean in the West African sub-region on a network years of Nigerian art, several private museums, the of islands connected by several bridges, Lagos was Museum of the Black World, numerous educational

Map: Britannica Nigeria’s capital from the colonial days through institutions, etc. The climate is tropical with the year independence in 1960 and continuing till the mid broken primarily into rainy and dry seasons. • Lagos is the econom- 80s when the capital was moved to Abuja. ic, social, and education heart of Nigeria. It Lagos is perhaps the largest and most diverse multi- is the leading non-oil ethnic megacity in Africa with Nigeria’s over 250 sector contributor to ethnic groups and several African and global Nigeria’s GDP countries well represented. The main language of

education and business is English although the • Lagos contributes predominant native languages of Yoruba, Ibo, Hausa 30% of the nation’s GDP, consumes 60% and Pidgin English are spoken liberally in the market of its energy, pays places. Christianity and Islam are the dominant 65% of its Value Add- religions. ed Tax (VAT), and ac- counts for 90% of Several annual cultural festivals, the centerpiece of Nigeria’s foreign trade Nigeria’s budding cultural tourism industry are and 70% of all indus- featured but FESTAC 1977, is still remembered as the trial investment.

• Lagos is popularly known as the Center The Atlanta—Lagos link of Excellence and could easily double as The Lagos relationship dates to educational, cultural and Photo: Announcement of first direct flights between Atlanta and Lagos the Center of Logis- 1974 becoming Atlanta’s first economic exchanges. tics industry. African sister city and validating ALSCC quickly became a rallying Atlanta’s claim as America’s It has also created improved ground for all Nigerians not only • The new planned EKO gateway city to Africa. opportunities for Nigerians living in Atlanta, but in Georgia. ALSCC Atlantic city is de- in the Atlanta Metro area but developed a counterpart signed to catapult Contributions to the location of particularly students attending committee in Lagos to provide a Lagos into the 21st the Nigerian Consulate General in area schools to be better link and official ties between century as a major Atlanta in 1980 and the Delta Air integrated in their host Lagos and Atlanta. It provided modern city. Lines direct flights between communities. It especially support for the Consulate and Atlanta and Lagos in 2007 are improved the erstwhile non- leadership mentoring role for stellar ALSCC achievements existent Nigerian community’s emerging multitude of Nigerian which have promoted increased connection with City Hall. organizations to flourish. Atlanta—Lagos activities

Themes and objectives: Highlights in 2013

The overarching goals have been to Some exemplary education centric visits include those of members support and grow the local counter- such as Otunba Alani Ogunlade, who had opened up a new school part LASCC efforts to supplement gov- in his hometown, a few miles outside Lagos; Morehouse College ernment’s programs to improve the welfare of the citizenry. This includes Economics Professor Juliet Elu’s leading a delegation of More- exemplary leadership and mentorship house School of Medicine experts to Gregory University to explore roles in community groups’ projects on possible partnerships; several visits by ALSCC Chair Esogbue to both sides of the relationship. Lagos to confer with the local Committee and provide advice on their programs including presentations to the four adopted The centerpiece remains education, schools (see photos right) ; the reciprocal visit to Atlanta by the health and socio-economic empower- ment activities of local groups, devel- Lagos counterpart Secretary General, Prince Bashiru Agunloye fea- opment of linkages between the pri- turing an educational tour of Morehouse College, the Atlanta Uni- vate sector and institutions, in both versity Center, Georgia Tech, etc (photo Lagos and Atlanta, and facilitating left), and the visit and signing of MOUs between four Nigerian universi- access. ties led by the Federal Minister of Science and Technology with Georgia Tech and facilitated by the ALSCC Chair. School adoptions, book donations, cultural exhibits promoting awareness Stellar exemplary leadership provided by ALSCC members and recog- of life in the two cities, free clean water distribution with health-care impera- nized both in Nigeria and the U.S. include the honor bestowed in Lagos tives for Lagos families, and communi- on Professor Esogbue as the 2013 recipient of the Stephen Oluwole ty development activities in Lagos are Awokoya Foundation Distinguished Partner in Science Education prominent examples of ALSCC’s specif- Award for academic excellence and mentorship of youths; and in the ic projects. U.S., in New York in September, by the President of Nigeria as among the Top Ten Nigerian Amer-

Nigerian President and Top Ten Nigerians in the U.S icans in the U.S. excelling in their fields of endeavor and contributing positively to Nigeria’s image and development; his recognition by the Nigerian Consul General , Ambassador Teneilabe during the independence celebrations in Atlanta with an award for Lifetime Service to the Nigerian At- lanta Community. Others include the celebration of Dr. Busola George by the Alliance of Nigerian Organizations in Georgia in October as a recipient of the prestigious 2013 ANOG Image and Ser- vice Award and supported by the ALSCC and the support of the annual fundraising and awards ceremonies hosted by ALSCC member and Founder/CEO of Africa’s Children’s Fund, Mr. Victor Mbaba. The ALSCC worked with the Nigerians in Diaspora Organization (NIDOA) and the Consu- late General, to facilitate the successful launch of a fundraiser to build a world class Trauma Center in Abuja, Nigeria.

Plans for 2014

Mobilization and membership drive to reinvigorate counterpart, the Atlanta Lagos Committee along the hard core members of the group and intensive with the government and people of Lagos Island campaign to recruit new members both in Atlanta City in welcoming Mayor Kasim Reed’s team to and Lagos; Lagos and Nigeria; Renewal and forging of new bonds with the EKO Continuation of the provision of needed support to Club Atlanta and the development of joint program our 4 sister city adopted schools in Lagos, and of activities; development of a program to link Atlanta schools Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed and with our adopted schools in Lagos; Atl-Lagos Commitee Chair Resuscitation of a once popular activity and Esogbue Augustine O. Esogbue, celebration as well as fund raising event called Lagos Continuation of our visibility, leadership and Ph. D. Day in Atlanta; vibrancy in the Nigerian-Atlanta communities Professor Emeritus H. Milton including projects geared towards infusion of Stewart School of Industrial & Participation in the planning and execution of Year knowledge and of Africa-Atlanta; a year-long initiative highlighting Systems Engineering Georgia expertise acquired Institute of Technology Atlanta. ties between Atlanta and the African continent. This in the U.S. in the was the brain child of the Sam Nunn School of socio-economic International Affairs at Georgia Tech, with Honorable development of Kasim Reed, Honorary Chair; Nigeria and those Opposite: Planning meeting between Atlanta of our members in Committee Chair and Atlanta International Affairs Participation in the planning and execution of Mayor Director Claire Collobert Angelle, with Lagos Island Reed’s Economic Development Mission to Nigeria in Atlanta Mayor, Lagos Atlanta Committee discussing October, 2014 and the full involvement of our Lagos communities. Atlanta Mayor's planned visit. Montego Bay JAMAICA

Atlanta - Montego Bay Sister City Committee

Date of Affiliation: 1972 Chair: Attorney Vin N. Martin, O.D. Web site: www.atlantamobayscc.org Contact: [email protected] Montego Bay Profile

Montego Bay is the capital of the parish of St. James and the second largest city in Jamaica by area and Map: Montego-Bay-Jamaica.com the fourth by population. It is a tourist destination with duty free • The City of Montego shopping, a cruise line terminal Bay is coastal town and several beaches. The city is located on the North backed by picturesque low Western part of Ja- mountains. maica. Today, Montego Bay is known for • The population of its large regional hospital Montego Bay is ap- (Cornwall Regional Hospital), port proximately 200,000 facilities, second homes for which includes many numerous upper class Jamaicans from Kingston as The infrastructure of the city is going through a international resi- well as North Americans and Europeans, fine dents. series of explosive modernizations which once restaurants, and shopping opportunities. The completed, aims to keep Montego Bay as a top coastland near Montego Bay is occupied by • The primary business destination in the Caribbean and the world. The numerous tourist resorts, most newly built, some for the City is tourism. Montego Bay Convention Centre, built on a large Montego Bay boasts occupying the grounds of old sugar cane site near to the Rose Hall estate, was opened by some of the top ho- plantations with some of the original buildings and Jamaican Prime Minister Bruce Golding on 7 January tels in the Caribbean. mill-works still standing. The most famous of these 2011. are the White Witch's Rose Hall and Tryall, both of • Montego Bay is which now feature world-class golf courses. Source: Wikipedia served by Jamaica's largest airport, the Sir Donald Sangster In- ternational Airport. Air Jamaica and several North American and The Atlanta—Montego Bay link European airlines run their Caribbean hub in "MoBay" connect- The Atlanta-Montego Bay Sister Mayors and City Councils of both which is headed by a sub- ing the island with Cities Committee (the cities. It is the second longest committee chair. the United States, the “Committee”) is a non-profit, relationship that exists between international organization with a Atlanta and its 18 sister cities. Activities have included United Kingdom, Ger- branch in Atlanta, Georgia, and educational exchanges for many, and Canada. another in Montego Bay, Jamaica. Both the Atlanta and Montego students, academic and Bay branches utilize the same administrative staff, reciprocal art The relationship between Atlanta business structure and operate in exhibitions and business and and Montego Bay was a similar manner. The Committee economic missions. established in 1972 by formal is run by a Chairperson and has declaration of the respective several sub-committees each of Atlanta—Montego Bay activities

Themes and objectives: Activities

• CULTURAL AFFAIRS: To identify areas of mutual From May 18-22, 2013 a delega- cultural interest between Atlanta and Montego Bay. tion of Montego Bay City officials and Sister Cities representatives, • EDUCATION: To expose High school students of both cities to the respective educational systems of lead by Montego Bay’s Mayor, His each City. To act as a liaison and facilitate the ap- Worship Councilor Glendon Harris, plication of Montego Bay High School students in visited Atlanta (Photos left and seeking access and admission to Atlanta’s institu- below). tions of higher learning. • FUND RAISING: To raise funds for the promotion The delegation met with Metro of the affairs of the Committees. Atlanta Chamber of Commerce • HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES: To expand the officials and with Atlanta’s Solid Waste Department. Among their other activities were base of support for health programs directed to the courtesy calls on Mayor Reed and under-served residents of Atlanta and Montego Councilman Kwanza Hall. In order to Bay, by bringing to the attention of health policy strengthen ties between both cities, members, the varied and urgent needs of this pop- the delegation held meetings and had ulation. presentations from the Atlanta Fire • TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER: To promote and/or Department and the Atlanta Conven- facilitate the use of technologies to establish and tion and Visitors’ bureau. Both entities expand mutually beneficial business ties between agreed to provide assistances to their Atlanta and Montego Bay. respective counterparts in Montego • TOURISM: To promote and encourage visitors to Bay, as requested by Mayor Harris. select Montego Bay as their location of choice while vacationing in Jamaica. Throughout the year, to support our activities, the Committee engaged in several fund • TRADE AND INDUSTRY: To identify economic raising activities. These included a brunch held at Atlanta City Hall and a banquet held opportunities which would benefit both cities. in September. Additionally The Committee was one of the primary organizations that organized Jamaica’s 50th anniversary of political Independence, the final activity of which was held at Atlanta City Hall’s Atrium.

Highlights in 2013 Among the Committee’s activities during the year the guest speaker at the opening of the Montego was our annual health mission to Montego Bay Bay’s Chamber of Commerce 2013 Expo. While in undertaken by our Health and Human services sub- Montego Bay, Mayor Reed also visited with committee. members of Jamaica’s Trade and Industry and discussed area of possible collaboration between The twentieth annual medical mission was both cities in the area of economic development. undertaken from October 9-12, 2013. Our team comprising 20 physicians, 13 nurses, a pharmacist Photo: Children participating in the Annual Medical Mission and 10 non-medical professionals provided needed medical care to 1,746 patients during the three Members of the Atlanta-Montego days of the mission. The team Bay Sister Cities Committee health also donated a significant team in attendance at Montego quantity of medicine and medical Bay's 2013 Expo held at the new supplies to these patients. Conference Center in Rose Hall, Montego Bay. Here members of Medical specialists who the mission are seen with Mayor accompany the team include OB Reed and other local dignitaries. GYN’s, internists, pediatricians, ophthalmologists, dentists, and a Mayor Reed delivered the pharmacist. keynote address on the opening night of the event. Further, in October Mayor Reed, at the invitation of the Montego Bay chamber of Commerce, was Newcastle GREAT BRITAIN

Atlanta - Newcastle Sister City Committee

Date of Affiliation: 1977 Chair: David Smith Contact: [email protected]

Newcastle Profile

Newcastle is a city full of energy, with a fierce sense for modern arts, music, housing, culture as well as of pride and a friendly regional identity. Dramatically bars and night clubs. It is one of the most dramatic located on the steep banks of the River Tyne, the areas of townscape in the country. city is an impressive sight whether approached by road or rail. Newcastle is Newcastle is designated as one of six UK cities of rich in culture, architecture science in recognition of and history with a great world-class strengths, reputation for style, notably in the fields of shopping and nightlife. healthy aging, medical science and sustainability. • Newcastle is the capital of the North East Historically, Newcastle- Together with the North of of England, located Upon-Tyne was at the England, the region hosts close to the border forefront of 19th century 1,000 companies in the with Scotland, 100 industrial innovation. At Life Science and miles south of Edin- one time a quarter of the Healthcare industry. burgh and 276 miles world’s shipbuilding was north of London. centered in the district. Five Centres of Excellence Other trades, particularly retail, have now replaced encourage the • It is an important exploitation of world-class research; build business and financial traditional industries. Major employers now include the public administration, education and health infrastructure to support and nurture high center, with a broad technology companies; and form international economic base span- sectors. ning manufacturing, partnerships. The Centres of Excellence combined information technolo- There has been recent large-scale regeneration in are an engine of highly skilled, internationally gy, commercial and Newcastle-Upon-Tyne. The Quayside is the area experienced technology executives in Bio- professional services along the banks of the River Tyne that has received processing, Fuel Cells, Assistive Technologies for the and retail distribution. heavy investment to provide a modern environment Aged and Open Access.

• Newcastle upon Tyne is 113 sq km in size with a population of 269,500. The city is The Atlanta—Newcastle link the 20th most populous in England, and The Atlanta-Newcastle of the Atlanta Friendship Force, a The Atlanta-Newcastle Sister as such, is one of Eng- relationship has its origins in a citizen diplomacy organization, City Committee maintains land’s core cities. visit by Dr. Martin Luther King and whose first mission was to connections with both Atlanta Andrew Young (subsequently UN Newcastle (the nearest major city and Newcastle city governments Ambassador and Mayor of to George Washington’s ancestral and organizations in each Atlanta) to Newcastle in 1967, home). location. Activities have included when Dr. King was recognized The cities of Atlanta and educational exchanges for with an Honorary Doctorate by Newcastle formed their sister city students, academic and the University of Newcastle. In relationship at that time. administrative staff, reciprocal art 1977, then Governor Jimmy exhibitions and business and Carter announced the foundation economic missions. Atlanta—Newcastle activities

Themes and objectives: Exchanges

Following the economic development mission in Since 1998, an annual Joint Exchange in British & American Cultures has taken place May 2013 (story below), the Atlanta—Newcastle between Georgia State University and the University of Northumbria in Newcastle Sister City Committee has established the following (UNN). objectives: Aimed at English and History majors with two years left of their degree, the program • Share best practices in key domains: science, provides a total immersion experience through which American students visit the innovation and culture. Specifically to organize a Newcastle to study, live, and travel with British students over an academic year, fol- quarterly conference call with City lowed by a reciprocal visit to Atlanta by students of UNN. agencies/departments on: • Newcastle Science City The program offers students the opportunity to jointly concentrate their studies in • Bike sharing program British and American cultures with a focus on literature, culture and history. Participants • Economic Development/Workforce Devel- are able to expand their experience through travel throughout the region and beyond. opment/Tax Increment Financing • Airport Information on the exchange is located at • Invite Newcastle to the next Sister Cities Eco- http://english.gsu.edu/n nomic Development Conference in Atlanta, titled tb/ Infrastructure by land, air and sea.

• Establish contact between local sister city American students immerse them- committees and maintain contact between Mayor selves in British culture during their Reed and Leader Forbes. study program in Newcastle.

• Develop airport cooperation.

• Increase trade opportunities.

• Increase opportunities for foreign direct investment.

Highlights in 2013 Following a visit by Atlanta Mayor, Kasim Reed, to the Georgia Institute of Technology. Newcastle in November 2012, a delegation from Newcastle visited Atlanta in May 2013. Councilmember Kwanza Hall took the group on a tour of the Martin Luther King site, with wreath The group was led by Leader of the Council, laying, in recognition of the MLK link with Newcastle. Councilor Nick Forbes, who was joined by 10 others representing regional economic development Discussions about Atlanta’s Olympic legacy focused organizations, universities, the Science City program, on Centennial Park. The group also held meetings at business parks and cultural institutions. Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport.

The group met with Invest Atlanta and toured The Newcastle delegation to Atlanta Beltline and Atlantic Station. Meetings were held at May 2013. City Hall with Mayor Reed and at the Mayor’s Office of Sustainability. Mayor Reed meets with member of the delegation headed by On the evening of Tuesday May 28th, a reception Councilor Nick Forbes, who is was held at the Metro Chamber with members of joined by representatives from the British American Business Group, Atlanta- Newcastle universities, the Newcastle Sister City Committee and others Atlanta Science City program, business groups interested in links with Great Britain. Mayor parks and the regional inward Reed, Councilor Forbes and British Consul General, investment agency. Annabelle Malins addressed the audience.

On the following day the Newcastle group visited Newcastle delegation meets with Mayor Reed at City Hall the Atlanta Technology Development Center and Nürnberg GERMANY

Atlanta - Nürnberg Sister City Committee

Date of Affiliation: 1998 Chair: Shean L. Atkins Contact: [email protected]

Nürnberg Profile

Nϋrnberg boasts a unique mixture of tradition and into a service center with high growth rates in the modern times. Its almost thousand years of history fields of innovative services. The strengths of the are still obvious in its cityscape. Nϋrnberg economic region lie in the fields of communication and multimedia, traffic engineering The City acknowledges the historical responsibility and logistics, energy and environment, power resulting from its special role during the period of electronics and service industry. Nϋrnberg expertise, Nazi rule and for this reason is actively concerned to particularly in promote respect some seminal Map: Britannica for human rights. technologies, In addition to ranks among the • Nϋrnberg is the sec- international ond-largest Bavarian best in Europe. conferences, city, and fourteenth Valuable impetus human rights largest municipality in is given by education in the Germany. research institutes Nazi Party Rally located in the • With 500,000 inhabit- Grounds Nϋrnberg region, ants, Nϋrnberg is the Documentation economic, services Centre, the such as for and cultural centre of Human Rights Film Festival and other events, these example the Fraunhofer Institute for Integrated Northern Bavaria, and efforts include the Nϋrnberg International Human Circuits. the centre of the Rights Prize. Nϋrnberg Metropoli- Nϋrnberg is one of Europe's fastest growing trade tan Region with Today, Nϋrnberg citizens from all nationalities live fair locations. Every year, over 1,2 million people visit about 3.5 million in- about 100 events and about 50 specialist trade fairs together in an atmosphere characterized by habitants. and congresses, including the world's largest tolerance and calm co-existence. The city supports specialist trade fair for toys. • The city benefits from international relations with 14 sister cities. its central location Since the 1970s, Nϋrnberg has transformed itself Text: http://www.nuernberg.de; Photo: Germany Travel within the European economic region.

• The freight centre in The Atlanta—Nürnberg link the port of Nϋrnberg is one of the most Established in 1998, the City of With the establishment of human rights and civil liberties for important transfer Nϋrnberg, Germany is Atlanta’s Atlanta’s National Center for Civil the world’s citizenry. and Human Rights, collaboration centers in Southern 16th sister city. Atlanta-Nürnberg For a thriving, sustainable and in this area has deepened and Germany. remains a very active partnership continued relationship, there is become stronger. Given the in the areas of civil and human also a focus to cultivate young, histories of both cities, Atlanta rights, economic development, emerging leaders who will build education, and culture. The and Nϋrnberg-based institutions on the success of the relationship continues to expand are more engaged in exposing, and encourage exchange on advocating for, and protecting partnership’s solid foundation.

both sides of the Atlantic. Atlanta—Nϋrnberg activities

Themes and objectives: Activities

• As German companies are major investors in Student Exchange: In August, a Nϋrn- the State of Georgia – employing more than berg delegation of nine future leaders 20,000 Georgians, economic development and two chaperones visited Atlanta, undergirds the partnership between Atlanta spotlighting the partnership’s focus on and Nϋrnberg. cultivating emerging leaders to build • In addition to economic development, the upon the success of the existing rela- Atlanta-Nürnberg Committee also focuses on tionship – built on civil and human civil and human rights as well as cultural and rights advocacy, economic develop- educational exchanges. ment, education and cultural exchange – between the two sister cities. During ASCC Chair Teri Simmons with Nϋrnberg future leaders this visit, spearheaded by the German- American Institute and made possible by youth fundraising efforts and through the generous sponsorship of other German organizations, the students expanded their knowledge on the subject of human and civil rights through visits to local cultural institutions, including the Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Site, the King Center for Nonviolent Social Change, and the Carter Center. Additionally, the delegation took part in several community engagement activities, working with Trees Atlanta to plant trees along the Beltline and a facility tour at the Southface Energy Institute to learn about the company’s sustainable architectural design initiatives in Atlanta and throughout the southeast region. At Southface, the future leaders spent time with Dennis Creech, the executive director, who also presented at Nϋrnberg’s international sustainable energy conference in 2012.

Highlights in 2013

International Human Rights Award: Twenty years government to implement international covenants after the conceptualization of the Nϋrnberg and eradicate laws criminalizing homosexuality. International Human Rights Award, the Office of Human Rights awarded the 2013 prize to Kasha Through a grant from the German-American Cultural Nabagesera of Uganda for her efforts to combat Foundation, Atlanta-Nϋrnberg Committee chair, homophobia in her country. The founder and Shean Atkins, and National Center for Civil and executive director of Freedom and Roam Uganda, an Human Rights (NCCHR) executive vice president, organization that supports members in the lesbian, Deborah Richardson, traveled to Nϋrnberg along gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) with Atlanta Sister Cities Commission chair, Teri community, Nabagesera was presented the award Simmons, for the ceremony and to continue to build Nϋrnberg’s Black History by Nϋrnberg’s Lord Mayor, Dr. Ulrich Maly, at a a partnership of human rights advocacy in the twin Month Celebration: ceremony in September. cities and throughout the world. Atlanta will During an almost two week welcome Nabagesera in 2014 as an invited guest to February trip to Nϋrnberg, Though her role as vocal advocate for improved participate in a series of public programs hosted by sponsored by the Nϋrnberg living NCCHR in the fall. Office of International Affairs, conditions Atlanta-based abstract artist Gina for the LGBTI Photo left: Christian Silinsky, Kasha Nabagesera, Shean Atkins, and Lord Chaney kicked-off the city’s Black Mayor Maly at the Peace Table after the ceremony. community History Month celebration Photo Right: through a solo exhibit of her has made her Shean Atkins, Deborah Rich- highly acclaimed commissioned the target of ard, Christina work. The Dream Series and violent Plewinski, and the Headmaster Servants of Time, a series of 35 harassment, of the Sigmund- paintings, pays homage to Dr. Schuckert Nabagesera Gymnasium Martin Luther King Jr. on the 25th pose with anniversary of the national continues to students after press the panel discussion holiday in his honor and the on “life in contributions of Coretta Scott Ugandan Atlanta”) King to the civil rights movement. Port of Spain TRINIDAD

Atlanta - Port of Spain Sister City Committee

Date of Affiliation: 1986 Chair: of Atlanta-Port of Spain Sister City Committee (APSCC) Karen Clarke ([email protected]); Co-Chair: Norma Kendall-Hamlet ([email protected]) Chair of Port of Spain-Atlanta (PASCC): Ms. Gia Gaspard-Taylor ([email protected]) Website: www.atlantaposscn.org Port of Spain Profile

Today, Port of Spain is as a leading city in the Caribbean region. Trinidad hosted the Fifth Summit of the Americas in 2009 whose guests included US President Barack • Settled: 1560 Obama and US • Incorporated: 1990 Secretary of State • Mayor: Raymond Tim Hillary Clinton. Port Kee of Spain also hosted • Governing Body: City the Commonwealth Corporation Heads of Government • Port of Spain is the Meeting in 2009 and capital of the Repub- The city is home to the largest container port on the hosted a Commonwealth Business Forum in 2011. lic of Trinidad and island and is one of several shipping hubs of the Tobago. It is located Port of Spain reflects its wealth from proceeds from Caribbean, exporting both agricultural products and on the Gulf of Paria, the international sale of natural gas, which has aided manufactured goods. on the northwest the country in the Port of Spain International coast of the island of The pre-lenten Carnival is the city's main annual Waterfront project constructed on the former Port Trinidad with an estimated population of cultural festival and tourist attraction. Authority site. 600,000.

• The city serves primarily as a retail and administrative center The Atlanta—Port of Spain link and it has been the capital of the island Under the Sister Cities Charter, Commerce in 1986. The purpose Port of Spain city governments since 1757. It is also the Atlanta - Port of Spain Sister was to foster understanding and organizations in each an important financial City Committee was founded in across international frontiers and location. services center for the 1986 as a people-to-people to promote good human Caribbean. exchange. relationships. Activities have included educational exchanges for It was an outgrowth of an Atlanta The two cities were officially students, academic and trade mission to Trinidad and twinned in 1987. administrative staff, reciprocal art Tobago in 1985 and a The Atlanta – Port of Spain Sister exhibitions and business and subsequent trip to Trinidad by City Committee maintains economic missions. the Atlanta Women’s Chamber of connection with both Atlanta and Atlanta—Port of Spain activities

Themes and objectives: General activities

The Committee has put on its agenda the promo- Plans are being formulated for a contingent from Port of Spain comprising Mayor Tim tion of the undermentioned activities between Kee, Ms. Gia Gaspard-Taylor (PASCC), small business owners, fire and police service both cities. personnel, and members of the trade and development sector to visit Atlanta in 2014. • Arts and Culture • Economic Development • Invite Port of Spain to the upcoming sister Economic Development Conference in • Humanitarian Assistance Atlanta, titled “Infrastructure by Land, Air and Sea.” • Youth • Becoming A Sustainable City by focusing on environmental and infrastructure • Sports issues, cultural heritage restorations, and social and economic development. Photo: On October 31, 2013, Mr. Raymond Tim Kee Exchanges and training was elected the new Mayor of Port of Spain. Ms. Norma Kendall-Hamlet In 1999, the Atlanta Fire Service Department and (APSCC - Chair) hands the Trinidad and Tobago Fire Service Depart- Deputy Mayor Mr. Ker- ment signed a Memorandum of Understanding. ron Valentine a congrat- The major purpose was to foster the mutual ulatory letter from Mayor Mr. Kasim Reed, growth and development of the two Firefighting City of Atlanta, for the Organizations. newly elected Mayor Mr. Raymond Tim Kee. These exchanges are still ongoing. Atlanta firefighters

Highlights in 2013 Our star Student Rondelle Keller (PASCC) has been a participant iEARNTnT since 2009; he has earned many awards, which took him to Taiwan in 2011. Most recently, in 2013 he received a national award for his work in the environment, and a scholarship that was offered by the Embassy in China to study the language in China where he is at present. His interests are in international relations. Global Winter Wonderland was spectacular lantern festival and “Carnival 2013” - Members and guest of APSCC multicultural theme park were enjoyed “The Greatest Show in The World.” Carnival visitors can travel the world in one is beautiful festival of Arts, Masquerade, Calypso, visit while viewing the larger-than Mango Festival Music and Creativity. The -life lantern designs of landmarks delegation participated in the presentation, islands display, from countries all over the globe, celebrations, enjoying the fun flag salute and cultural please see of children in “Kiddies presentations. www.globalwonderland.com Carnival” shows, comp- etitions and parades. Mayor Trinidad & Tobago Mango The Atlanta - Port of Spain Sister Lee Sing, Ms. Gia Gaspard- Festival sponsored by our City Committee and the Taylor (PASCC), and Norma corresponding organization, Dominican International Kendall-Hamlet (APSCC) the Port of Spain Sister City Association participated at the hosted guests. Committee, was held on Global Winter Wonderland in a Sunday, July 7th featuring cultural performance on The Committee co- byproducts of the mango December 29, 2013. This was an sponsored the Opening fruit, for example; mango initiative spearheaded by APSCC Ceremony and Awards Event wine, chow, kutchela, jam, Cultural Chair, Mike Tyler. The for Caribbean American pone, ice cream, body Committees showcased their Heritage Month, which took products and more. At the diverse multicultural heritage place at the Fulton County upcoming Mango with playing of the Steel Pan by Atrium on June 02. The Conference participants will Roger Knight (TnT), singing, and theme for the evening was like to interface with small dancing. “Spotlight on St. Kitts and businesses exploring and Nevis, and the Common developing import and Wealth of the Bahamas”, export markets in Atlanta. included an awards

Ra’anana ISRAEL

Atlanta - Ra’anana Sister City Committee

Date of Affiliation: 2001 Chair: Arnold Heller Web Site: www.arnoldheller.org

Ra’anana Profile

Ra’anana is known locally as ‘Little America’ because the Open University and Ra’anana College. so many settlers came from New York. By the 1947 Ra’anana Park is the largest in the Sharon District – it War for Independence, it was a village of 3,000 offers walking and bike trails, sports fields, a zoo and residents. In the 1980’s, Ra’anana was declared a city children’s petting center, and a lake which is and occupies six square miles. surrounded by special gardens. The Founder’s Ra’anana’s industrial zone in the north of the city is Museum presents the story of Ra’anana’s original home to the Renanim settlers in diorama’s that shopping mall and many capture the city’s frontier Map: GraphicMaps.com high-tech companies that spirit. include Emblaze, Hewlett- • Ra’anana is in the Ra’anana is home to the Packard, NICE Systems, On heart of the Central Lowenstein Hospital, a District, located 15 Target Communications, national rehabilitation center. miles north of Tel SAP and Texas Instruments. The main soccer club of the Aviv. In addition, Microsoft’s head city is Hapoel Ra’anana – Bnei office in Israel and Amdocs • The population was Hasharon is the best are located in an office about 80,000 in 2013 basketball team and plays in complex at the eastern edge – Israel’s tenth largest the Metro West High School. of the city, close to the city With a large population of American expatriates, the Ra’anana Junction. Ahuza Street runs through the Ra’anana Express were an inaugural team in the • It is bordered by Kfar city from east to west and is lined with shops, Israeli Baseball League. Saba on the east and restaurants, and a cultural center. Herzliya on the west. Ra’anana is also home to Beit Issie Shapiro, a world Ra’anana is renowned for its excellent school system class institute dedicated to providing innovative • The majority of resi- – there are twelve elementary schools, ten middle therapies and education for people with special dents are native-born schools, and eight high schools. The world class K- needs. Beit Issie has developed a special Israelis; a quarter of 12 Music Conservatory opened two years ago to relationship with Atlanta’s Marcus Center. the population are nurture young prodigies. Ra’anana is also home to immigrants from the Americas, Europe, and South Africa. The Atlanta—Ra’anana link • Ra’anana is home to many leading global The Atlanta – Ra’anana seventeenth sister city 2001 Sister Cities International companies and local Committee formed out of a partnership. Convention in Atlanta. start ups. It was des- student exchange between North ignated a Green City Atlanta High and Ostrovsky High The first twinning mission took The Atlanta – Ra’anana link award by the World School in 1998. At that time, Dr. place from May 11 – 17, 2001. The celebrates its thirteenth Health Organization in 2005. Arnold Heller, applied to the second took place on July 25 – anniversary in 2014. anniversary Atlanta Sister Cities Commission 28, 2001 when the proclamation on July 27, 2014. for Ra’anana to become the was signed as a highlight of the Atlanta—Ra’anana activities

Themes and objectives: General activities

The main focus of the Atlanta – Ra’anana Sister City The ARSCC members work closely together. We attempt to meet socially at least once Committee (ARSCC) has been to nurture economic a year at a restaurant to strengthen our bond. The ARSCC looks forward each year in development and facilitate educational, cultural, participating in the Atlanta Sister Cities Commission Holiday Party – we bring Chanu- and athletic exchanges. kah foods and religious symbols to the serving table.

In the area of economic development, the ARSCC has worked closely over the years with the Ameri- Left: Myna Cohen and Dr. Arnold Heller at the ASCC can – Israel Chamber of Commerce – Southeast Holiday Party. Division (AICCSE) – to strengthen economic life in both cities and regions. Currently there are six In 2013, there were no exchanges. Ra’anana based companies that have invested in ARSCC Vice Chair Myrna Cohen visited Atlanta – Amdocs is the largest. Valuation impact Ra’anana in June of 2013 to re-affirm our of the six companies has been estimated at partnership and engage in joint planning. $200,000,000.

The two cities have engaged in exchanges of all types but very few in recent years. It is hoped that with the recent election of Zeev Bielski, activities will increase dramatically in 2014 and the years ahead.

Sister City signing ceremony at Right: Dr. Arnold Heller with President of Masorti City Hall, Congregation in Ra'anana. Atlanta in 2000.

Highlights in 2013 The focus of the past year was not on planning and executing activities – it was on strengthening the committee’s relationship with integral organizations making up the Atlanta Jewish Community.

For example, Dr. Arnold Heller, on October 16, 2013, met with Michael Horowitz, Director, Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta (JFGA) and Cherie Levitan, Israel Programs. The aim of the meeting was to forge a closer working relationship between the ARSCC and JFGA.

Below: Ra'anana Music Center . Opposite: Beit Issie Shapiro special ed and therapy center in Ra’anana Photo: Members: Dr. Cedric Since ARSCC’s inception, JFGA has focused on its Suzman, Mr. Nadav Sivon, Mrs. mission to improve the lives of the less fortunate Rena Kahn, Dr. Arnold Heller – people of Yochneam. Ra’anana has always offered Chair, Mrs. Myrna Cohen – Vice to assist JFGA in uplifting the lives of the city of Chair Yochneam – this may start happening later this year.

Dr. Heller also urged JFGA to include a visit to Ra’anana in the June 2014 Federation mission to Israel. This was achieved – JFGA is organizing for interested mission participants a visit to Beit Issie Shapiro to observe cutting edge therapies and educational approaches for special needs individuals. Rio de Janeiro BRAZIL

Atlanta - Rio Sister City Committee

Date of Affiliation: 1972 Chair: Joseph Walker Contact: [email protected]; [email protected]

Rio de Janeiro Profile

Rio de Janeiro is the cultural second most important city capital of Brazil especially in Brazil in economic terms. when the subject is music, Rio was the capital of Brazil from Ipanema and its for nearly two centuries, sophisticated Bossa Nova to from 1763 to 1815 during the Favelas and its popular the Portuguese colonial era; Samba, Rio is a city to be 1815 to 1821 as the capital Map: GraphicMaps.com sung and danced. The of the United Kingdom of historical center of Rio is • Rio de Janeiro is Portugal, Brazil and the rich in cultural attractions, Brazil’s second most Algarve’s; and 1822 to 1960 architecture of many important city in eco- as an independent nation. different schools, churches, nomic terms. Rio de Janeiro represents public buildings squares • The City has an annu- the second largest GDP in and museums. The city of alized GDP at more the country and 30th largest Rio de Janeiro is the main than U$ 70 billion and in the world. Tourism and growing approxi- location of the most oil production are the main mately 3% a year. important political events in economic activities. • 57.1% of the econo- Brazil, and the city is the my of Rio de Janeiro is service based, 10.3% The Atlanta—Rio link industry, and the re- maining portion in The Atlanta-Rio Committee has State, Mercer, Morehouse and as well as offering seminars education, admin- participated in helping Brazilian Spelman. Some of the grantees’ directly linked to cross-culture istration and govern- students achieve higher fields of study are engineering communications. ment. education opportunities in the (industrial, aerospace, chemical, The Committee also plays a major • Population stands at Atlanta area. In the past, with a civil, environmental, software), approx. 6.5 million role in providing tourism project linked to Mercer biology, biotechnology, nursing, within the city of Rio information on Atlanta to the de Janeiro and nearly University, the Committee played creative industry, medicine, IT and travel industry in Rio de Janeiro 12 million in the a direct role in publicizing computer science. There are (and other locations in Brazil). As greater metropolitan Georgia higher learning students from the undergraduate the only Atlanta based area of Rio de Janeiro. opportunities in Brazil via to the post-doctoral levels. organization with a permanent • There are approxi- secondary schools and The Atlanta Rio de Janeiro Sister presence in Rio, and with major mately U$35 billion in universities. City Committee has also enjoyed industry contacts, the committee infrastructure im- Currently, there are around 50 a strong working relationship is a major link between Atlanta provements being Brazilian Science without Borders with Troy University of Atlanta based companies hoping to offer executed in and around Rio de Janeiro (SWB) students in Atlanta. They creating the opportunity for their services to guests from Rio for the World Cup come from 16 different Brazilian Brazilian students to learn about de Janeiro and for Rio de Janeiro 2014 and the Olym- states, including Rio de Janeiro. English. Future joint endeavors based companies who want to pics. Host universities in Atlanta are: are quickly moving towards offer new destinations to their Emory, Georgia Tech, Georgia teaching on the global workplace clients. Atlanta—Rio activities

Themes and objectives: General activities

• The Committee strongly believes that The committee energetically business development is derived in through its meetings and outreach large part from activities that bring efforts helps Atlanta based compa- tourism to the city of Atlanta. nies and citizens understand the true • Tourism is the gateway to economic multi-faceted nature of the local development as guests learn what a culture. More than Samba and Carni- great place Atlanta is to do business, val, Rio de Janeiro has deep cultural some will be tempted to invest in the roots that extend back to Europe, city. This is beyond the millions of dollars Brazilian tourists already leave Africa, and to the native indigenous through their visitations. populations. Business and business development is as serious as the • The committee also recognizes the economic impact of education and dance and music that make the city educational exchange. Whether it be so enjoyable. for students or for businesses, the committee is aware of the economic The Committee recently has entered into impact international students have a partnership with the Rio Film Festival to when studying in Atlanta. help local Atlanta based film makers en- • Reversely, the committees as the only roll in the international segment allowing local entity with a real permanent them and other individuals the oppor- presence in Rio de Janeiro, committee tunity to show their work to a large inter- members are often engaged with national audience. assisting business and political trade and fact finding missions and making Photo above: Atlanta—Rio Olympic Cities: A wonderful poster depicts the bridge between these two sister cites, celebrating contacts that often are fruitful. the shared experience of hosting the Olympics.

Photo left: Brazil Plaque: Atlanta-Rio Sister Cities Committee participated in the Fernbank Winter Wonderland and this plaque was placed in front of the decorated holiday tree.

Highlights in 2013

The Committee deepened its contacts in Rio de • The Committee has been engaged with various Janeiro in business development, education, and meetings with government officials including tourism opportunities as to better assist Atlanta those linked to the business development based citizens wanting to travel to Rio de Janeiro. department of the city of Rio de Janeiro and This was made possible by the opening of an office representatives of Rio Mayor Eduardo Paes. together with a Committee board member that • The Committee has held meetings regularly via helps serve as a permanent base. its meet-ups where Brazilian culture, tourism, The Committee through this new permanent office, business opportunities, have been discussed. Atlanta-Rio Sister Cities solicited and received permission to promote • The Committee, led by Freda Turner and Kathy Committee enjoys a holiday lunch Atlanta as a tourism destination to some major tour with the Brazilian Meet Up group operators in Rio de Janeiro, received the go ahead to Ellis, participated in the Fernbank Winter Wonderland. created by the ARJSCC last year. promote cultural exchanges between Atlanta and Rio based film makers (as well as the “OK” to allow • The Rio Film Festival was approached and The meets ups are usually at a Atlanta based film makers to enter their work into agreed in principal to an exchange of film Brazilian establishment. the film festival). makers. The Committee also engineered its first intern • The Committee actively pursued partnerships placement in Rio de Janeiro for an Atlanta area to bring student from Rio de Janeiro to study University student. The Committee, beyond English and Cross Country Communications to assisting Brazilians to learn about higher education Atlanta. opportunities in the Atlanta area, believed it was important to assist Atlanta based students wishing • The Committee hosted its first Georgia based to broaden their horizons and education in Rio de intern in Rio de Janeiro and there will be many Janeiro. This program should grow in the near more to follow. future.

Salcedo DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Atlanta - Salcedo Sister City Committee

Date of Affiliation: 1996 Chair: Víctor Ramírez, Co-Chair: Miguel Contreras

Salcedo Profile

• Salcedo Salcedo is the capital of the Mirabal Sisters Province Basically, the museum consists of a walk-through and birthplace of the three Dominican heroines who tour of the house the family lived in before the made their ultimate sacrifice for their country by sisters’ death. The house is kept in the same giving up a privileged life to fight against the condition as it was back in the 1960s- the furniture, powerful the clothes, the dictatorship of kitchen, everything. Rafael Trujillo. There’s a memorial Map: Wikipedia to the sisters in the On December 17, backyard, and in 1999, the United 2000 the sisters’ • Located approximate- Nations General bodies were ly 1 hour and 50 Assembly exhumed and minutes from the designated moved there as nation’s capital of November 25 as Santo Domingo, the well. city of Salcedo has the annual date of 92,193 habitants. the International The Mirabal sisters (Wikipedia) Day for the are also Elimination of commemorated on • The main economic Violence against the 200 Dominican activity of Salcedo is Women in pesos bill. They are agriculture and the commemoration seen as heroes in main products are of the sisters. the Dominican Republic, as Trujillo's dictatorship plantain, cassava, cof- crumbled after their death. fee and cacao. Salcedo has one of the most visited museums in the Dominican Republic, the Mirabal Sister Museum. Photo: Parque Atlanta, Salcedo (see Highlights, next page) • In 1994, Dominican- American author Julia Alvarez published her novel, In The Time of The Atlanta—Salcedo link The Butterflies, a fic- tionalized account of The active sister cities ties cutting-ribbon the lives of the heroic between Atlanta and Salcedo ceremony for that Mirabal sisters, from contributed toward the opening flight at the Salcedo. The novel of Delta Air Lines’ first direct flight Hartsfield-Jackson was adopted into a Hollywood movie to the Dominican Republic. The Atlanta International starring Selma Hayek director of the Atlanta’s Office of Airport, on as Minerva and Ed- International Affairs Claire December 1, 2005 ward James Olmos as McCleveighn, the chair of the (Photo right). They Trujillo. ASSCC Victor Ramirez, and the also flew on that inaugural flight General to inform him on future ASSCC committee member to the capital of Santo Domingo exchange plans between the two Fernando Ramirez were at the and met with the US Consul cities. Atlanta—Salcedo activities

Themes and objectives: Activities

• To promote the legacy of outstanding leaders The Atlanta – Salcedo Sister Cities Committee who fought bravely and heroically. participated at the Atlanta’s Global Winter • To develop business exchanges among com- Wonderland lantern festival. Dominican sing- panies interested in implementing and acquir- er Clelia Elila entertained the crowd with a ing Atlanta’s high technology industries and Merengue and Bachata music performance. A Salcedo’s vast production of agricultural and delegation from Salcedo visited this festival handcrafts products. and enjoyed the world’s greatest architectural • To promote high school student exchanges achievements: the Eiffel Tower, the MLK Monument, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the between Atlanta and Salcedo. Liberty Statue, the Great Pyramid of Giza, the US White House, the Chichen Itza, the • To generate cultural exchanges among citi- Golden Gate Bridge, and the Chinese Tem- zens of both cities with the purpose of em- ple of Heaven, among other attractions. bracing the human and civil rights move- Photo above: Dominican songwriter and singer Clelia Elila is ments lead by Reverend Martin Luther King greeted by a group of participants who attended her music performance at Global Winter Wonderland lantern festival in and the Mirabal Sisters. Atlanta. • To promote collaboration and fellowship be- Photo below: Dominicans celebrate their country’s independ- tween our cities governments to better serve ence with the international community at the Atlanta City Hall. our constituents.

Photo above: Salcedo delegation visits Martin Luther King Center, accompanied by Council- man Kwanza Hall.

Photo left: Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed greets his counterpart Salcedo Mayor Valentín Fernández as he visits the City of Atlanta to participate at the ASCC Economic Development Global Partnership Forum.

Highlights In 2008, Parque Atlanta was inaugurated at the city entrance of Salcedo. As a cultural and recreational venue, the park was conceived to honor the three Dominican heroines, as well as to give relevance to our sister city of Atlanta.

This project was initiated with the collaboration of various community and business leaders within the government and private sector. From Atlanta, it got relevant contributions from Williams – Russell and Johnson Engineering Co., Guerra – Stoll Barker Salcedo Mayor Valentín Architects, and the Atlanta City Hall. From Salcedo, Fernández [on left] delivers there were significant contributions from Mena – a letter of invitation for Pantaleón Engineering Co., the Dominican Justice Photo above: Atlanta Councilman Kwanza Hall conducts a tour of the Martin Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed Supreme Court, and the Salcedo City Hall. The Luther King historic site in Atlanta for a delegation headed by Salcedo Mayor Valentin Fernández [center] to visit the Dominican completion of this park got a strong support from Republic. the former Vice President of the Dominican Republic Photo right: Atlanta - Salcedo Commit- Dr. Jaime David Fernández and his mother Ms. tee members meet Víctor Ramírez, Atlanta-Salcedo Bélgica – Dedé Mirabal. with Atlanta - Newcastle Chair Sister City Committee David Smith Chair [on right ] accompanies Mirabal Sisters DR (center) and mem- 200 peso bill bers of the Office of Mayor Fernández and his (Expat- International Affairs, delegation. chronicles.com) Bettina Gardner and Claire Angelle (Director). Taipei TAIWAN

Atlanta - Taipei Sister City Committee

Date of Affiliation: 1979 Chair: Peter Yeh

Taipei Profile

Taipei originated as a small trading port over two move in, the city government has also introduced hundred years ago before becoming the political, several incentives, subsidies and guidance measures financial, and cultural center of Taiwan, the island's in order to encourage increased research and most populous city. innovation as well as to improve added value and competitiveness During the last from enterprises. few decades there Meanwhile, the has been Map: globaltrade.net department is tremendous pro-actively growth in the city. paving the way • Taipei is located in Now a sprawling for technology the Taipei Basin of metropolis, Taipei industries, Northern Taiwan. It is is an ideal place to including biotech surrounded by New visit for those who Taipei City and is the and cloud love the hustle largest city in Taiwan. computation, and and bustle of the creative design big city. (Source: • There are approxi- industries by mate 2.6 million peo- yahoo travel) combining Taipei Neihu Technology Park, Nankang ple living in Taipei, There are many tourism attractions in Taipei. Among and a population of Software Park, and Beitou-Shilin Technology Park them, the most famous ones are Taipei Building 101, over six million in the into a Taipei Technology Corridor, which will metropolitan area. the 4th tallest building in the world, and National become the core of Taipei City's industrial growth Palace Museum, which houses one of the world's and the beginning of a transformed economy. • Taipei City Govern- largest collections of artifacts from ancient China. ment, the administra- As the nation’s capital, Taipei City is devoted to tive hub of the city, Taipei City's industrial environment has progressed improving its infrastructure and building an was founded in Octo- into a new era in line with changes around the environment favorable for production and ber 1945 as a provin- globe. In addition to building a quality investment economic activities. cial municipality. environment and attracting outside companies to Source Taipei.gov.tw; Photo: WikiTravel • The city government has committed much of its resources to The Atlanta—Taipei link creating investment opportunities and Taipei became the sister city of The Atlanta-Taipei Sister City Activities have included student executing policies to Atlanta in November 5, 1979, Committee, with the assistance of exchanges from high schools and attract capital from the corporate world. when Mayor Lee, Teng-hui of Taipei Economic and Cultural colleges, cultural performance, Taipei and Mayor Maynard Office in Atlanta, maintains trade missions, and official visits Jackson of Atlanta signed a sister connections with both Atlanta between the two governments. city agreement in Taipei, Taiwan. and Taipei city governments and organizations in each location. Atlanta—Taipei activities

Themes and objectives: Activities and highlights in 2013

The Atlanta-Taipei Sister City Committee has set its On Sep 1st to 7th 2013, Youth Ambassadors comprising a group of six students along agenda to promote the following objectives: with one professor from Fu Jen Catholic University of Taipei visited Atlanta. They had the honor to meet with some government officials and visited their offices, including • Youth exchanges Fulton County Chairman Dr. • Cultural exchanges John Eaves, Atlanta City • Economic development Council member Alex Wan, • Official visits and Mr. Noah Downer of Plans have been made this year specifically to focus Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed’s on economic development, which includes: Office.

• Invite Taipei to the next Sister Cities Economic During their visit to Atlanta Development Conference in Atlanta, titled City Hall, they so enjoyed the Infrastructure by land, air and sea. conversation with city offi- • Invite Mayor Kasim Reed of Atlanta to lead a cials to exchange ideas of trade mission to Taiwan. enhancing the relationship • Arrange business delegations from Taiwan to between Taipei and Atlanta, visit the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce such as expanding the working holidays program for young Taiwanese university stu- to increase trade opportunities. dents to experience American culture and way of life. • Provide useful contact information of economic development officials and local busi- These Youth Ambassadors also visited Georgia State University and made a cultural ness organizations in each location to boost presentation about Taiwan. They introduced the brief history of the Republic of China future cooperation. (Taiwan), a few popular tourism landmarks in Taipei, and last but not least, the authen- tic Taiwanese street food from the night market. The students from Georgia State Uni- versity absolutely were excited about the presentation. Some even exchanged contact information with the Youth Ambassadors to make sure they have local free tour guide when they visit Taiwan.

Highlights in 2013 continued In order to learn more about the city of Atlanta, this one of the most name brands and had great fun test delegation also spent a full day at CNN Center, the -drinking all different flavors of soda innovated by World of Coca Cola, and other cultural landmarks Coca Cola around the world. and attractions. The tour at CNN center was very Additionally, in November. Mayor’s Office of informative, showing the Youth Ambassadors the International Affairs Director, Claire Angelle, visited intense hard work behind the scene. At the World of Taipei as part of the ‘Young Political Leaders Coca Cola, they learned about the successful story of Program’.

The 2013 Youth Ambassadors Taiwan ROC from Fu Jen Catholic University of Taipei was well received by Mr. Noah Downer of Mayor Kasim Reed’s Office during their visit to Atlanta City Hall. Tbilisi REPUBLIC OF GEORGIA

Atlanta - Tbilisi Sister City Committee

Date of Affiliation: 1988 Chair: John Hall ; Co Chair Nina Tickardze Web Site: www.atscc.org Contact: [email protected]

Tbilisi Profile

Tbilisi (Georgian: თბილისი), is the capital and the Tbilisi has been home to people of diverse cultural, largest city of Georgia. According to Georgian ethnic, and religious backgrounds, though it is legends, it was founded in the 5th century by King overwhelmingly Eastern Orthodox Christian. Notable Vakhtang Gorgasali who, while hunting, shot a tourist destinations include cathedrals like Sameba pheasant which fell into a warm spring and was and Sioni, classical Freedom Square and Rustaveli either boiled or healed. The king was inspired to Avenue, medieval Narikala Fortress, pseudo-Moorish found a city on the Opera Theater, site, and the name and the of the city derives Georgian • Located in the South National Caucasus. from the Georgian word tbili meaning Museum. • Population of 1.5 "warm". Although million (2012). The Georgians the city has been • Key Business Sectors: are a proud destroyed and agricultural produc- people with an rebuilt some 29 tion. Significant oil ancient culture. times, the layout of and gas potential as They have the Old Town is well as other natural through the largely intact with resources including ages been manganese, iron, coal, narrow alleys and noted as copper, gold, granite, big crooked warriors as well limestone, marble, houses built mineral waters and as for their around courtyards. dense forests that hospitality, love cover one third of the The Georgian language is a member of the of life, lively country. Kartvelian (South Caucasian) family of languages. It intelligence, sense of humour, and reputed • Doing business in has its own alphabet, which is thought to have longevity. Tbilisi- with the estab- evolved about the 5th century. Sources: Wikipedia, Britannica. Photo provided by the City of Tbilisi. lishment of Free In- dustrial Zones in Georgia, there are new incentives and opportunities to pro- The Atlanta—Tbilisi link duce and export goods with a minimal The Atlanta-Tbilisi sister city politicians have come to Atlanta Georgian people. Many tax burden. committee was formed in 1988. from Tbilisi for educational committee members still have training and they left here with a long lasting relationships with the Since the beginning of the wealth of knowledge and many many people who have come to Atlanta-Tbilisi committee the two new friends. Committee Atlanta from Tbilisi and we look cities have since benefited from members have gone to Tbilisi and forward to building new lasting each other. Many students, experience the culture and relationships with the people of lawyers, educators, doctors, and hospitality and the warmth of the the country of Georgia and Tbilisi. Atlanta—Tbilisi activities

Themes and objectives: General activities

The Atlanta-Tbilisi Sister City Committee & Georgia Activities this year have concentrated on promoting Georgian culture and traditions of to Georgia Foundation work together to seek out, Georgia. facilitate and promote social, economic, humanitarian and cultural interaction between Atlanta, GA, EMORY UNIVERSITY, ROLLINS SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH - CELEBRATES GEORGIAN USA & Tbilisi, Georgia. DAYS. January of 2014 Emory University, Rollins School of Public Health celebrated

The Atlanta-Tbilisi Sister City Committee (ATSCC) International week by introducing its students and guests to the country of Georgia. endeavors to build economic, legal, educational With the support of Honorary Consulate’s office, Emory displayed beautiful traditional and humanitarian progress in Georgia. We believe, Georgian souvenirs, arts and crafts. Guests enjoyed Georgian traditional cuisine, Geor- with efforts of our developing friendships between gian wine and fun demonstration of Georgian cooking of traditional Cheese Bread, as the two great countries, we can assist and further well as presentation on Georgian alphabet and calligraphy. promote stability and economic growth within the country of Georgia. 2nd Annual GEORGIAN CHRISTMAS TREE AT THE FERNBANK MUSEUM OF NATURAL

The Georgia to Georgia Foundation (GA2GE) is a HISTORY, ATLANTA. ATSCC volunteering team of local Georgians organized and spon- 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Atlanta, sored a display of the Annual Georgian Georgia. GA2GE is dedicated to following the phi- Christmas Tree at the Fernbank Museum. losophy of American philanthropist Andrew Carne- Georgian ornaments decorating the tree gie "to do real and permanent good" in Georgia. represented cultural traditions and holiday crafts found through different re- The Foundation seeks to assist humanitarian efforts, gions in Georgia. The colorful dolls, flow- promote education and cultural exchange, encourage sustainable agriculture, and ensure that the ers and hats displayed traditional regional country of Georgia has one of the most efficient, textiles and dresses while the wooden open, and productive climates for economic devel- instruments (panduri) represented musi- opment in the region. By providing practical educa- cal traditions. Felt flowers and ornaments tion to Georgian professionals and expanding the highlighted the holidays while showcas- horizons of Georgian students through exchange ing the Georgian tradition of felt-making. programs and education, the foundation is building a brighter future for the development of Georgia.

Highlights in 2013 GEORGIAN DELEGATIONS IN ATLANTA OPEN Schedules for the delegates were personalized WORLD PROGRAM, 2013. ATSCC together with based on their interests and experiences. Some of GA2GE continues its long relationship with Open the most memorable meetings were with Judicial World Programs by hosting Georgian delegates from Qualifications Commission State of Georgia Jeff various cities in the country of Georgia in Atlanta. In Davis, Director; Richard Hyde, Investigator; meeting 2013 we hosted two Georgian delegations in 2013 with Greg Loughlin, Executive Director of Georgia with the concentration on Rule of Law. Commission for Family Violence, tour of Fulton LETTERS TO CHILDREN IN KITSKI County Jail, The Prosecuting Attorney’s Council of INSTITUTION. With the initiative Georgia, meetings with judges and hearings at the and participation of local courts. Delegates also got a chance to visit local Georgian community members, attractions, Coca Cola Museum, CNN center, and Kitski Children’s Institution was greatly enjoyed spending time with their host chosen to receive letters, gifts and families. books for Christmas 2013. The . program seeks to connect Photos: Georgia delegates visit Atlanta Georgian children living in the USA with the children living in institutions in the country of Georgia. Children write letters to each other in their native language and share their The delegates included: leaders of the Georgian experiences with each other. This Young Lawyers Associ-ation, leaders and managers summer several of children living of the Georgian Chamber of Control, head of Legal in the USA will visit Kitski Administration with the Ministry of Internal Affairs, Institution and meet their new judges from different regions of Georgia, friends. We hope to build long prosecutors, attorneys and administrative personnel lasting friendships and support of Justice department; a total of 12 guests. groups for children in Georgian Institutions. Toulouse FRANCE

Atlanta - Toulouse Sister City Committee

Date of Affiliation: 1974 Chair: Betty Davis Web Site: www.AtlantaToulouse.org ; Facebook address: Atlanta Toulouse Sister City Committee Contact: [email protected]

Toulouse Profile

Toulouse, known as La Ville Rosa, the Pink City, constructed the massive concert venue Zénith, the because of its red-brick architecture, is a popular largest in France outside Paris, and more. tourist destination. As the gateway to the Pyrenées, Culturally, Toulouse is home to the Galerie du it is close Château d'eau, one of the oldest places dedicated to to a number of wonderful outdoor attractions. The photography in the world and the Académie des city itself is full of Jeux floraux, the character and charm. oldest literary society Toulouse boasts of the Western World. dozens of museums Map: Country-France-Holidays and exhibits about Toulouse’s economy is the region’s history growing as quickly as • Toulouse is France’s fourth largest city. and culture. Toulouse its population. has two historic sites Thriving aerospace • Population – 1.2 Mil- listed among the and biotech industries lion. UNESCO World fuel the economy. Heritage Sites. • Capitol of the Midi- The city hosts Pyrénées Région. Toulouse is always l'Oncopole de working to improve Toulouse, the largest • Capitol of Europe’s its culture. In the last cancer research center aerospace industry. decade, the city has in Europe. restored monuments • Major industries in- The city is also a major dating back to the clude Aeronautics, French university time of the Counts of Space, Electronics, location, with four Toulouse, refurbished Information Technol- universities and 16 quality institutes. ogy and Biotechnolo- the city’s symphonic concert hall, built a city theater, gy.

• Toulouse’s world renowned university is one of the oldest in The Atlanta—Toulouse link Europe (founded in Since 1974 the Atlanta Toulouse committee in Toulouse, 1229) and, with more Sister Cities Committee has and we maintain a focus than 119,000 students, is the third- maintained an active and on French culture. We largest university productive relationship with host visitors from Toulouse campus of France Toulouse, France. With a who come to Atlanta for after Paris and Lyon. membership in Georgia of over business or social purposes. We and the French Heritage Society 100, the Atlanta Toulouse Sister share activities with Alliance that promote French-American Cities Committee communicates Francaise, the French American collaborations and expansion of with our corresponding Chamber of Commerce-Atlanta, interests. Atlanta—Toulouse activities

Themes and objectives: General activities

Our mission is to establish friendships and promote 2013 was a year of learning for ATSCC. Our members expanded their knowledge of the cultural understanding between the people of business and cultural recent developments and past history of France by attending Toulouse and Atlanta. The Atlanta Toulouse Sister France-Atlanta “Together Towards Innovation” activities in October and November, as Cities Committee accomplishes its mission through well a series of lectures on French art at Oglethorpe University, French films, French citizens exchanges, and events with a focus on dinners and wine tastings, and a French cooking class taught by Jeanne Castell-Kozik. culture. ATSCC Member John Lyons provided us with a dinner lecture on commonalities in the French and English languages in March

Photo left: Art lecture at wine tasting in February.

Photo below: ATSCC President Betty Davis with John Lyons at our annual Fete de Rois.

Mr. Lyons provided a well- researched lecture on English/ French language commonalities.

Our members attended a French Community night at the Atlanta Symphony in May.

Highlights in 2013 We provided hospitality to a group of students from greeted by their French host families, they were France who are enrolled in graduate studies at warmly welcomed by the Honorable Mayor Georgia Tech: a dinner party at the home of Judy Stéphane Hablot and his cabinet at Vandœuvre-les- and Rick Fritz to get to know the students, and a Nancy, France City Hall. The American students and farewell dinner at a local restaurant at the end of the their French colleagues, along with the principal, semester before they returned to France. teachers, and parents from Collège de Haut Penoy, met face-to-face with the Honorable Mayor Hablot This year the ATSCC aided a group of Atlanta school who informed all of the students that “Today is the children planning a trip to France for the purpose of beginning of a lasting international relationship enhancing the students' knowledge and skills in the between Nancy, France and Atlanta, Georgia. French language and culture. Believing that children Students, we are counting upon you to lead us into Photo above: ATSCC Program who are exposed to other cultures are stimulated in the 21st century through technology and more Chair Mark Long, ATSCC President ways that could benefit both cultures, we importantly culture and language”. Betty Davis, Dr. Yves Bethelot, and contributed funds to subsidize the cost of airline Segolene de Marolles, tickets for their trip. In May 2013 ATSCC members visited Georgia Tech Communication and Marketing University to hear Dr. Yves Bethelot, Vice Provost and Director of the Alliance Franciase. On June 7, 2013, the students of Luther Judson Price President of Middle School, of Atlanta Public Schools, embarked Georgia Tech Photo opposite: ATSCC members upon a trip of a life time. Four students of the French Lorraine at dinner with French students language traveled to Nancy, France. Upon arrival, the France attending Georgia Tech. American students met their French middle school campus, give colleagues of Collège de Haut Penoy face-to-face for the history and the first time after communicating with them for goals of nine months, by postal letters, emails, social media, Georgia Tech’s and Skype. collaboration with Metz, A few days after the American students were France.

February, 2014

Greetings:

With 18 sister cities throughout the world, Atlanta’s international footprint keeps growing. Sister city partnerships indeed represent an incredible tool to promote peace and prosperity through cultural, educational, humanitarian and economic development exchanges.

The friendships that Atlanta shares with these 18 cities worldwide has been particularly highlighted in 2013. I personally visited two of our sister cities while traveling to Newcastle-upon-Tyne and Montego Bay. On these occasions, I experienced first hand the driving force of which these powerful partnerships are capable.

Once again, 2014 will put our sister cities relations at the forefront of the city’s international agenda as I will be leading two trade missions to Rio de Janeiro and Lagos. These trips present a great opening to introduce Atlanta-based companies to these important markets while connecting our colleagues and universities with companies and institutions there.

I would like to take this opportunity to extend my sincere thanks and deep appreciation for the many volunteers of the Atlanta Sister Cities Commission, chaired by Teri Simmons, and those of each individual committee who work tirelessly to ensure the success of these long-lasting connections.

Sincerely,

Kasim Reed