MARQUETTE, Mich. (WZMQ) – Marquette is hosting some of its most important visitors this week. Nine delegates from our Japanese sister city, Higashiomi, arrived this afternoon at Sawyer Regional Airport for a week of cultural exchange, goodwill and learning.
45 years ago, Rumi Nukazuka came to Marquette when she was in high school, part of the first sister city delegation from Higashiomi, Japan. She began learning about Marquette when she was a pen pal to local resident Laura Farnsworth. Later, when Rumi traveled to America, she would stay with Laura’s family, and so began a friendship that has withstood the test of time and distance. Though not an official delegate Rumi will act as an interpreter for this week’s visit. And, as usual, stay with her lifelong friend.
“I was part of the first delegation, and the next year, I could come to Marquette as a member of the delegation, and as a guest of Laura’s family. I just fell in love with her family and with Marquette,” said Nukazuka.
Rumi was so captivated by Marquette, she chose to attend NMU, and has been a frequent visitor ever since.
“I think it is fascinating to know each other, and to be involved in the Sister City Program, and get to know each other’s culture, and understand each other,” said Nukazuka.
Paulette Lindberg, who has been involved with our Sister City Program from the very beginning, believes we can all learn valuable lessons from each other.
“And you just watch them while they’re here. In the next six days, you will see a graciousness about them that we should learn to do as well,” said Lindberg.
The Higashiomi delegation has a busy schedule with events planned around their visit all week. They will be in town until August sixth.
