Gunpo delegation to enjoy centennial celebration
Gunpo Mayor Jae-young Ro addresses, from left to right, Sen. Janea Holmquist, Rep. Judy Warnick, R-Moses Lake, and Lt. Gov. Brad Owens in Capitol building in Olympia Monday. Photo by Bill Stevenson/Columbia Basin Herald
GRANT COUNTY — Representatives from Grant County’s sister city of Gunpo, Korea, are visiting this week.
The delegation, including Gunpo Mayor Jae-young Ro and wife Joung-hyun Jo, were expected to arrive in Grant County Monday evening.
Members of the delegation arrived in Washington State on Sunday and spent several hours visiting the state capitol Monday.
Grant County Economic and Cultural Exchange program Administrative Coordinator Carol Green said Gunpo representatives typically visit the county biennially. The last time they visited was in October 2007.
“They came early this year because of the centennial (celebration),” said Green.
Monday included a visit with Secretary of State Sam Reed, recognition on the House floor, tours of the House and Senate, and meetings with local representatives.
“They’re beaming,” Green said. “They’re just having a wonderful time.”
A Republic of Korea flag was on display on the capitol’s campus to honor the guests.
Thirteenth District Rep. Judy Warnick, R-Moses Lake, Rep. Bill Hinkle, R-Cle Elum, and Sen. Janéa Holmquist, R-13th District, visited the delegates in Olympia.
“I was honored to be their guest and learn about their businesses, visit their schools and experience the Korean culture,” stated Warnick. “Our relationship with Gunpo city goes beyond a cultural experience though, we have established an important trade relationship with Korea as a result of this sister agreement.”
Hinkle also had positive comments about the visit.
“They're very interested in our political and elections process,” said Hinkle. “It was great to show them around our capitol, discuss government and continue this important partnership between Grant County and Gunpo city.”
Delegates’ schedules are packed with tours and visits in the area.
On Tuesday, the delegates will attend Grant County’s Centennial Celebration, which begins at 11:30 a.m. at the steps of Grant County Courthouse.
On Wednesday they visit Port of Moses Lake, Dry Falls, Royal City and a possible aerial tour of Grant County.
On Thursday, the representatives visit Port of Quincy and Leavenworth.