MARQUETTE, Mich. (WZMQ) – On Wednesday, The Marquette Sister City Partnership celebrated the 45th year of Marquette’s “friendship” with the City of Higashomi, Japan. This partnership started in 1979 and has continued with study abroad programs in both countries and displays to promote international relationships.
To commemorate the 45 years of friendship, the Marquette Sister City Partnership hosted a tree-planting ceremony with Higashomi delegates. About 20 members joined at Lower Harbor Park to help plant the maple tree. The organization shared that the tree symbolizes the growth and strength the partnership has and will continue to have in the future.
“I wish the Sister Cities would continue in the future and be strengthened,” said Masakiyo Ogura, Mayor of Higashomi, Japan.
To celebrate 45 years, an art exhibit “Japanese Treasures” done by Marquette artist Jacob Darner opened today and will be open until the end of August. The Japan delegates will be in Marquette until August 6th.
The Marquette Sister City Partnership is hosting a reception tomorrow, Thursday, at the Northern Michigan University Ballroom at 6 p.m., for more information go to the Marquette Sister City Partnership homepage.