PORT TOWNSEND — What was intended as a welcoming ceremony for a group of exchange students from Japan has turned into a way to show solidarity in the wake of disaster.
Nine middle school students from Ichikawa, Japan — which is about 500 miles southwest of Sendai, the epicenter of last week’s magnitude 8.9 quake — will be greeted in the second-floor conference room of the Northwest Maritime Center, 431 Water St., Port Townsend, on Sunday.
The students from Port Townsend’s sister city already had scheduled a five-day visit when the earthquake hit, but it was uncertain last weekend if they would be able to make the trip.
Since the students live outside of the earthquake zone, they decided to take the trip as planned, said Catherine McNabb, sister city liaison.
The Port Townsend Vocal Ensemble, a group of Port Townsend High School students directed by Linda Dowdell of Sequim, will perform at both the private welcoming gathering at 3 p.m. and a “meet-and-greet” with the public that is scheduled for 4 p.m.
“We were rehearsing on Friday when the news was showing what was happening because of the tsunami” that followed the massive quake, Dowdell said.
“So, we decided to make it both a welcoming event and a way to show our support.”
The group will perform about five songs of varied styles in an a cappella format.
During the public portion, attendees will have the opportunity to sign cards and send messages to the tsunami victims.
McNabb said the event is not specifically a fundraiser. Any money collected will be routed to charities in Japan.
Dessert and coffee will be served.
The sister city program between Port Townsend and Ichikawa began in 2002, with a student exchange program taking place on alternating years since then.
The students pay their own way, but insurance and ancillary support are provided by the YMCA.
The trips are beneficial for all the participants, McNabb said.
“It gives the kids a whole different view of life,” she said.
“Anytime you get to know someone new on a personal level, it can benefit you.”
McNabb, who has visited Japan twice, said the Port Townsend delegation “was treated like rock stars” during the trip, with crowds and signs.
She said Port Townsend’s welcome of the Japanese guests is generally a little more laid-back but is still appreciated by the students.
During their visit, the students will tour the Port Townsend Marine Science Center, the maritime center, Fort Worden State Park and other local attractions.
Students will be individually housed by local families.
After leaving Port Townsend, the students will spend the night in Seattle before returning to Japan.
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Jefferson County Reporter Charlie Bermant can be reached at 360-385-2335 or at charlie. bermant@peninsuladailynews.com.
