Downtown Salisbury Hosts Delegation from Sister City Tartu

Salisbury, MD - On Monday, August 18, Salisbury, Maryland, welcomed a delegation from Tartu, Estonia, as part of the Sister Cities initiative. This visit underscores Salisbury's ongoing commitment to fostering international friendships and cultural exchange.  

One key highlight was a performance by the Tartu Male Academic Choir, a well-known Estonian choral ensemble. The short performance, held at Friendship Bridge off Market Street, included a selection of traditional and contemporary works and featured a ceremonial exchange of gifts to symbolize the partnership.

For those seeking a more immersive experience, the choir performed a full-length concert at Asbury United Methodist Church later that evening.  

Mayor Randy Taylor expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, "The partnerships we have with our Sister Cities bring Salisbury, Maryland to conversations across the globe. I'm looking forward to celebrating that friendship and spending time with the community and our Estonian partners."

Formed in 2006, The Sister Cities Association of Salisbury/Wicomico County aims to promote global connections through cross-cultural understanding, education, and civic engagement. Salisbury first partnered with Salisbury, England, and has since expanded to include other Sister Cities, including Tartu, Estonia, and a Friendship City in China. These initiatives are supported by an active group of around 15 volunteers, dedicated to bridging communities on an international scale.  

Dr. George Whitehead, a committee member, extended an invitation to the community, saying, "The Sister Cities Committee encourages the community to join us to welcome the choir to Salisbury and hear them sing songs composed by Estonian composers. This is an excellent opportunity for each of us to get to know the other better!"  

For those interested in supporting or learning more about the Sister Cities Association, additional information can be found at salisburysistercities.org or by contacting Dr. George Whitehead directly via email at GIWHITEHEAD@salisbury.edu.