Rotarians meet Japanese Consul
Fostering International Relations:
Medford Rotarian David Keane, Consul General Akira Muto, Rotary President Jen Sanders and Rotarian Pat Theberge at a reception on Feb. 27. Courtesy (Photo by Jen Sanders)
On Thursday, Feb. 27, Medford Rotary Club members David Keane, President Jen Sanders and Pat Theberge had the opportunity to attend a reception and dinner hosted by the Consul General of Japan, Akira Muto.
The trio was joined by other guests from Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Maine, all presenting and discussing their various Sister City/State relationships with Japan.
"It was a great experience. Pat, David and I were very glad to be a part of this event," said Sanders. "We were able to hear what has worked well for these other programs and bring back some ideas to help our own program."
Medford began a Sister City relationship with Nobeoka, Japan in 1980 when then Mayor Paul Donato and Nobeoka’s Mayor Takahiko Hayanari signed a Sister City Declaration.
Donato asked the Medford Rotary Club to take on the task of an International Exchange with Nobeoka. Since then, on the even numbered years, Medford Rotary covers the expenses to send two senior-bound students to Nobeoka for approximately two weeks.
On the odd numbered years, Medford Rotary hosts two students from Nobeoka.
Applications and more information for 2014’s Nobeoka Exchange will be out soon for Medford, senior-bound students who may be interested.