Futtsu, Japan, is located in Chiba Prefecture, about two hours south of Tokyo on the eastern shore of Tokyo Bay. A city of 60,000, Futtsu has a semi-rural atmosphere, running along a narrow strip of coast below forest-covered hills. On especially clear days, Mount Fuji can be seen across the bay. Futtsu's attractions include a large water sports complex, the five-story Goddess of Peace Monument, the Mother Farm Animal and Agriculture Education Center, and the Golden Monkey Preserve.

The industries of Futtsu include agriculture, fishery, commerce and manufacturing. The shoreline of Futtsu is part of the South Boso National Park and is a popular resort area.

In 1988 the first sister cities agreement was signed between Carlsbad and Futtsu, Japan. The cities share a shore-based location and an emphasis on water sports and recreational tourism.

For more information or to volunteer, contact the City of Carlsbad Cultural Arts Office.

In 1991 Karlovy Vary became the City of Carlsbad's second sister city. Karlovy Vary was discovered by the Czech King and Holy Roman Emperor Charles IV in 1350 and became a spa town renowned for the curative powers of its thermal springs. In the 18th and 19th centuries it became the favorite restorative retreat of royalty, nobility and the great artists of the times. Centuries later, the water in a well in a small California town was discovered to have the exact mineral properties of Karlovy Vary's famous Spring #9, so in honor of the connection, the town was named Carlsbad (English for Karlovy Vary).

Annually, spa guests from around the world visit this popular historic spa town, which lies in a green valley of the river Tepla. The mineral water from the natural hot springs is used in healing baths and is said to contain important minerals necessary for curing of the body.

Karlovy Vary is also noted for its festivals. The best know festival is the International Film Festival visited by film stars, directors and film makers from across the world. Many festivals are connected with music in all of its forms. Classical music is represented by Dvorak's Autumn Music Festival and the International Singing Competition of Antonin Dvorak. The famous Symphonic Orchestra of Karlovy Vary dates back to 1835, among one of the oldest orchestras in Europe.

Student Homestay: Carlsbad families host students from Futtsu and Karlovy Vary in alternating years. The high-school age students stay approximately one week, attending school with their student hosts and engaging in a variety of events organized by the Sister City Committee.

Carlsbad to Karlovy Vary Vocal Competition: This is a competition held in even-numbered years for singers 18 to 30, in the fields of opera and art song. One contestant from Carlsbad is selected to compete in the famed International Dvorak Vocal Competition in Karlovy Vary. This winner's prize is sponsored by Edward Jones Investments. To learn more about this year's competition and event times and locations, visit the Cultural Arts Office.

Japan in a Suitcase: This is a traveling presentation of introductions to daily life in Futtsu, Japan, using props pulled from a suitcase. This presentation is available free to any student organizations (such as girl scouts), including schools in the City of Carlsbad. For more information, call 760-434-2900.

International Sister Cities Photography Competition: This photo contest is for students in 9th through 12th grades. It will culminate in two exhibitions, one in Carlsbad and one in Karlovy Vary. This is a joint project between the two sister cities. Subject matter for Carlsbad residents is "A Day in the Life of Carlsbad." Students use digital cameras to photograph their favorite things about Carlsbad (its community, its people, its environment, architecture, history, etc.). Prizes of $100, $50 and $25 for the top three entries. To learn more, visit the Cultural Arts Office.

Two special fundraising events to support
Carlsbad's sister cities.

Luncheon Honors Visiting Sister City Mayor
Wednesday, Dec. 2, 2009, 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. 

Park Hyatt Aviara Resort Luncheon Honoring Karlovy Vary Delegation

The Carlsbad Sister City Committee will host a buffet luncheon at the Park Hyatt Aviara Resort honoring visiting Lord Mayor Werner Hauptmann of Karlovy Vary and his delegation. Included will be a presentation of the committee’s new nonprofit group, a special performance, “Healing Sounds Yuletide Concert,” by Diane Mandle, and opportunity drawings for several exceptional gifts. As an added bonus, the traditional display of beautifully decorated Christmas trees will be in the hotel lobby.

Tickets are $50 for lunch and $10 each for the opportunity drawing. If you are unable to attend, a tax-deductible donation to the new Sister City Committee will be appreciated. Seating is limited; call 760-635-0464 to RSVP or for further information.

Al’s Café Fundraiser - Come One, Come All!
Thursday, Dec. 3, 2009 from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Al’s Café in the Village will participate in a fundraiser for the Carlsbad Sister City Committee’s new nonprofit group.  

Located at 795 Carlsbad Village Drive at the corner of Jefferson and noted for great food, Al’s also specializes in tasty fudge. Bring your friends and share an enjoyable breakfast or lunch while helping the new group bring more visitors and events to Carlsbad.

Information: Al’s Café in the Village 760-729-5448