Cranford Welcomes Japanese Sister-City Mayor, Athletes

The Mayor and Judo Karate Athletes from Nakadomari, Japan visited Cranford on Monday morning where they were presented with a plaque and proclamation acknowledging the relationship between he two cities. 

Owner of Cranford Judo Karate Studio, Yoshisada Yonezuka, is originally from Nakadomari and has facilitated the visits of the people of Nakadomari, Japan to Cranford. One of Nakadomari’s Judo Karate teams is in Cranford this week for a competition, where they will practice with the Cranford team.

Traveling with the team this year is Mayor of Nakadomari, Shunichi Ono. Ono received a letter from Cranford last year following the team’s visit that encouraged him to tag along on this year’s team trip in order to learn more about the people of Cranford. Mayor Thomas Hannen presented Ono with a proclamation, and Ono also presented Cranford with a proclamation and gifts.

The Japanese Judo team offered gifts to the Cranford team and the athletes introduced themselves and gave their thanks.

“We look forward to a continued relationship and exchange of ideas,” Hannen expressed.  “Such a relationship is beneficial to both the Township and its citizens.”

Ono added that the relationship is very important to both Nakadomari and Cranford.

Members of the Japanese Judo Karate team and the delegates of Nakadomari visited the Cranford Police and Fire Departments following the ceremony. They spent the rest of the day at the Cranford Swim Pool.