The news of Mayor William Donald Schaefer's passing saddened many Japanese, especially the residents of Kawasaki, our sister city since 1979.
The late mayor was instrumental and vital in the creation of the sister city relationship with Kawasaki. The sister city program flourished under his leadership and his tireless slogan, "Do It Now." He traveled to Japan many times, bringing the Baltimore Orioles and the famous manager Joe Altobelli. The Japanese people love baseball too and were so impressed with our team and observing our mayor who was so involved. He accompanied the Baltimore Sympathy Orchestra to Japan. The Japanese people were so impressed to see their sister city's mayor so enthusiastic and charismatic.
Kawasaki City citizens will always remember William Donald Schaefer, the great mayor of Baltimore. They will hold the memories deep in their hearts forever.
Dr. Hiroshi Nakazawa, Baltimore
The writer was the founding chairman of the Kawasaki Sister City Committee of Baltimore.