Illinois lawyers and judges are undoubtedly watching the catastrophe in Japan and responding in a generous spirit. The unfathomable devastation there continues to unfold before our eyes. I have conveyed the following official messages to the president of the Japan Federation of Bar Associations, and to the Consul General in Chicago expressing our sympathy and willingness to help in any way we can. To the Consul General: The Honorable George Hisaeda Consul General of Japan 737 N. Michigan Avenue, Suite 1100 Chicago, Illinois 60611 Dear Consul General Hisaeda, The Board of Governors of the Illinois State Bar Association adopted a resolution at its meeting last Friday to express deep sympathy and concern for the people of Japan.  We have seen pictures of the unbelievable destruction from the earthquake and tsunami.  Our thoughts are with you, the members of the Japan Federation of Bar Associations, and with all of the people of Japan who have been affected by this terrible event. We know that it will take many months to recover from this disaster.  If we can somehow be of help to you, please let us know.  In the meantime, we extend our sympathy, friendship, and continuing concern for the people of Japan. Sincerely, Mark D. Hassakis To the Japan Federation of Bar Associations: Mr. Kenji Utsunomiya President, Japan Federation of Bar Associations Dear President Utsonomiya: The catastrophic earthquake and resulting tsunami of this past Friday are uppermost in the minds of the lawyers and judges of Illinois. The distance in miles between your country and ours is erased by the enormity of the devastation and suffering conveyed by the images we see on television. I speak for the more than 33,000 members of the Illinois State Bar Association whose thoughts and prayers are with your members, their families, and all people of Japan in this trying time. Please know that our Association stands ready to help in any way it can. Sincerely, Mark D. Hassakis, President