Farewell party for Mark Smith

After working as the Coordinator for International Relations in Kosaka for a year, he has now been posted to the town of Takanosu; a farewell party was held for him on July 24th at Sepam by the town and KIS.

At the party, speeches were heard from Mayor Kawaguchi, KIS president Fujii and also from former CIRs David and Lara. Lara was unable to come to the party, but she sent a tape from New York, where she is currently working.

Also, KIS members and some of his coworkers in the town hall put together a slide presentation entitled "A day with Mark", which produced fits of laughter from the audience.

Finally, Mark gave his farewell speech, in which he expressed his sincere gratitude for having the opportunity to meet so many wonderful people, some of whom he refers to as his "Kosaka Father" or his "Kosaka little Sister".

Mark, thank you for all your hard work over the last year. We hope you stay well in Takanosu, and please come to Kosaka from time to time.

We'll never forget you and see you soon!