A 100-Pound Tuna and an Unforgettable First Day in Osaka

Until yesterday, I’d never seen a grown man carrying/dancing with a 100-lb tuna on his shoulder. This (and other observations) from Day #1 of our U.S.-Japan Sister Cities Summit in Osaka, Japan.

Easily the best single day of any conference I’ve ever experienced. Our 552 attendees were treated to:

The great-great-great granddaughter of John Manjiro (Ms. Kyo Nakahama), who was shipwrecked 200 years ago, rescued by an American ship captain, and, is considered the first Japanese person to study in the U.S. Unbelievable story.

Celebrating the 70th anniversary of the first U.S.-Japan Sister City relationship between St. Paul, MN and Nagasaki.

The story of a boat that washed away during the 2011 tsunami, was discovered two years later in Crescent City, California, and the tragedy that developed into a remarkable Sister Cities friendship.

The best conference food I’ve ever had, the friendliest volunteers imaginable, and incredible fireworks show to end the night.

Thank you to the City of Izumisano, Japan. Ready for Day #2!