Marlboro Makes It Official With Sister City

Delegates from WuJiang, China visited Marlboro's on Friday to finalize the agreement to be the township's sister city by signing a proclamation for both America and China.

For several years, both Marlboro and WuJiang have participated in a mutual exchange program, and several members of Marlboro's council visited the Chinese city almost two years ago.

When Mayor Jon Hornik's father, Saul Hornik was the township's mayor, he began a relationship with Nanto City, Japan.

Now, Hornik said he sees China as one of the fastest growing countries, and he believes Marlboro will benefit from an exchange of ideas.

"Even with the language barrier, you can see the instant connection we have," he said of the Chinese delegates.

Shen Bin has been at the head of the journey for WuJiang, and served as a translator for his delegates.

He recalled some children of his city visiting Marlboro earlier this year, and said "They are excited about the lifestyle in the states. The students and teachers enjoyed their experience in Marlboro Township."

WuJiang has six other sister cities, in France, Australia, Japan and South Africa. Marlboro is its only American tie.

The Chinese delegates and Marlboro's council exchanged gifts, seen in the above photo gallery. The WuJiang residents gave Hornik a silk-woven scroll with Chinese characters as well as a silk-woven, framed picture of himself. Marlboro gave the delegates several gifts to remember their time in America, including a mounted, fossilized rock from Marlboro.

"I look forward to many exchanged back and forth," said Council President Randi Marder. "We can learn a lot from each other."

Marlboro and WuJiang will continue to foster an exchange program, sending students to learn about different cultures and experience a different lifestyle.