COMMUNITY ACTION: A bigger place for Shichigahama in Plymouth

Local resident Christine Bonfilio is proposing an idea to the town of Plymouth to raise awareness about our sister city relationship with Shichigahama, Japan. Currently, our town only maintains a display case in town hall dedicated to the gifts that Shichigahama has presented us over the years. Christine’s idea proposes a larger space, with more information available on Shichigahama, the history of our relationship, and Japanese culture in general.

Christine recently conducted a survey on public awareness of our 25 year sister city partnership. “Less than 10% of the people I asked knew about our relationship…It’s sad.”

Christine hosted an exchange student from Shichigahama in 2004. She visited Japan in 2005, and again in 2013. “I've been [to Japan] with my family since my host sister traveled here 11 years ago. It’s near and dear to my heart”

Shichigahama has embraced Plymouth on a community level. The coastal town in Miyagi prefecture has even built a replica of the original First Parish Church in Plymouth. The building holds information about Plymouth, and the history of our sister city relationship. It serves as part of their community center area and tourist destination.

Christine’s proposal is under review by the town. We should hopefully hear more news soon!

Pictured: Christine and her host sister Ayumi Ogino, in Shichigahama.