News Story

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:
Ann Wykell, (727) 551-3250
Cultural Affairs and International Relations Manager

STUDENT APPLICATIONS FOR SISTER CITY TRIP
DUE MARCH 14

St. Petersburg, Fla. (February 26, 2008) - The city of St. Petersburg International Relations Committee and the Rays Foundation are sponsoring a cultural exchange with Takamatsu, Japan, its sister city since 1961. Two high school juniors who are residents of St. Petersburg will be selected to officially represent our city as goodwill ambassadors to Takamatsu this summer.

“In addition to experiencing typical Japanese family life, culture and sights, our student ambassadors will have the opportunity to enlighten young people of Takamatsu about St. Petersburg’s people and culture,” said Abdul K. Ali, chair of the city’s International Relations Committee.

The high school juniors selected will receive free economy round trip airfare to Takamatsu and a home stay with a Japanese family (or families) for up to three weeks during the summer of 2008. After the exchange trip, each student must be available for interviews to promote the program for the next year. Each student agrees to share his or her experiences with students, civic groups and other interested citizens upon return from the exchange.

The application form is available on the city’s web site, www.stpete.org/japan. Applications must be postmarked or e-mailed by March 14, 2008. For more information, contact the city’s international relations liaison at 727-551-3250 or e-mail, ann.wykell@stpete.org.