TRAVERSE CITY -- Traverse City leaders are reaching out to their sister city in Japan following the devastating earthquake and tsunami.

Koka is located south of the earthquake and tsunami damage but is still being affected by the events.

Students and teachers from Koka come to Traverse City to live with host families and study, and vice versa. City Clerk Debbra Curtiss is the city's liaison for the sister city program. She wrote a letter for Mayor Bzdok to send to the Mayor of Koka.

The letter is below:

March 16, 2011

The Honorable Takeshi Nakajima, Mayor, City of Koka, Shiga Japan

Dear Mr. Nakajima:

To the people of the City of Koka and the Country of Japan, we are very saddened by the tragic events in Japan.

Although we understand that Koka is south of the epicenter of the earthquake and resulting tsunami, we are very disheartened by its effect on your great country and people. Words seem inadequate to show our feelings of sympathy.

During this time of great loss of lives and devastation to the beautiful Japan, please know that we here in Traverse City are thinking about you all in Japan.

May you find courage and peace to work through this very difficult time; our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Sincerely,

Christopher M. Bzdok, Mayor, City of Traverse City

You can learn more about the sister city program by CLICKING HERE. 

To see an interactive map of Japan and Koka CLICK HERE.