Published on July 21, 2023
On July 20, the City of Medford hosted students and chaperones from its sister city Alba, Italy for a meet and greet and dinner with Mayor Randy Sparacino, City Councilors and department directors. During the City Council meeting, Mayor Sparacino proclaimed July 20 as Medford-Alba Sister City Day.
Background: In 1960, Medford and Alba became sister cities through a selection process by the international program, matching them according to similar size, geography, climate and economy, as both are regional centers in agricultural areas.
In 1985, the Sister Cities Program, Medford and Alba began student exchanges where schools host contingencies from their sister cities. The student exchanges have forged lifelong friendships, brought entire families together, and provided a once in a lifetime opportunity to be immersed in each other's culture.
"The Medford-Alba Sister City Student Exchange benefits communities and schools when youth share their experiences," said Mayor Sparacino. "We wish to salute our guests from Alba and welcome them in friendship to the City of Medford and Southern Oregon."