A gift of two wooden combs, framed in a box, might seem like an odd present, but for the cities of Culver City and Kaizuka, it was a tangible symbol of a long tradition.
The combs are a famous product of Kaizuka; boxwood combs have been made there by the same family for five generations, and they are valued historical crafts. They were presented by Kaizuka Sister City Association Chairman Toshiharu Terada to Mayor Dan O’Brien, a gift to Culver City for a “Sister City” relationship of 60 years.
The April 28, 2025, Culver City Council meeting began with a recognition of a long partnership; the 60th anniversary of the city’s ‘Sister City’ relationship with Kaizuka, Japan. Tereda thanked the city for the proclamation, offering, “We are truly grateful for the longstanding friendship and the deep bond between our two cities.”
The delegation from Kaizuka had a full tour during their stay, including a Dodger game, a private look at the Culver City Historical Society’s museum, a walk though at the Culver City downtown Fire Station, and a reception hosted by Akasha. Culver City Sister City Committee President Lisa Saperston chaperoned the visitors and posed for photos with Tereda.
Kaizuka is the second ‘sister’ in the Culver City family. Urupan, Mexico was the initial relationship in the program. The most recent addition is Capo D’Orlando in Italy, which came in 2017.
Judith Martin-Straw
