A (cherry) blossoming friendship

While it may not be native to Ohio, the Kwanzan Cherry tree planted in Riverside Park Wednesday afternoon showcases something that is: friendship. Mayor Christina Muryn along with students from both Kawaguchi City, Saitama Prefecture, Japan, and Findlay planted a new Kwanzan Cherry tree near the Tell Taylor Memorial at Riverside Park. A plaque placed in front of the tree says "In recognition of the relationship between Kawaguchi City and Findlay" along with the date and Muryn's name. It is the second such tree planted in recognition of the friendship in the park. The tree planting was one of several activities planned for the 10 exchange students from Kawaguchi City as well as University of Findlay students and Findlay City Schools students, two of which participated in the exchange program and two more who will participate this year. The friendship agreement between the two cities dates back to 2018 when then-mayor Lydia Mihalik signed the agreement. Findlay's first encounter with Japan occurred in 1984, when Findlay's government sought out financing to expand the city's water treatment plant from Dai-Kangyo bank in Kawaguchi City. A rock monument with a plaque displaying the locations of Kawaguchi and Findlay was unveiled when the two entered a Friendship City Agreement in 2018 is also located at Riverside Park.