By: Matt Weinagrden, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Lakeshore News Reporter, Lakeshore News Reporter
In August, a delegation from Tecumseh, Mich., led by Mayor Brian Radant, visited Tecumseh, Ont., for the 49th annual Tecumseh Cornfest. During the visit, the group toured Town Hall and several local sites, fostering renewed connections between the communities.
Later, a delegation from Tecumseh, Ont., travelled to Tecumseh, Mich., on Oct. 11 to attend the Appleumpkin Festival. The event draws more than 20,000 visitors annually to a city of about 9,000, and featured over 120 vendors, carnival rides and live music. The Ontario delegation included Mayor Gary McNamara, CAO Marg Misek-Evans and councillors Rico Tonial, Brian Houston and James Dorner. The group toured City Hall, the police and fire departments, and the local museum, and met with Mayor Radant and members of council.
Coun. James Dorner, Ward 2, Tecumseh, Ont., acknowledged the support of Councilmember Austin See from Tecumseh, Mich., in coordinating the visit. Dorner noted their shared experience as combat engineer veterans—See with the U.S. Marine Corps and Dorner with the Canadian Armed Forces.
During the exchange, the Ontario delegation presented hats and shirts from the Tecumseh Thunder baseball team, while Tecumseh, Mich., gifted decorative cutting boards featuring the city’s logo. The visits continue to strengthen the enduring friendship between the twin towns.
