This Twinning Ceremony is a chance for the two cities to recommit their relationship to each other, having been joined together since 1972. Executive Director of Community Affairs Dr. Henry Ficklin and Office of Small Business Affairs Director Charise Stephens represented Macon-Bibb County at a similar ceremony in Mâcon, France in July, and Monday’s event will be ratifying the relationship. By joining together, the cities agree to promote peace through mutual respect, understanding, and cooperation.

“Diversity strengthens our community and is important now more than ever,” says Dr. Ficklin. “Culture exchanges help to make the world a better and more peaceful place.”

Attending the Ceremony will be Emilie Clerc, Vice Mayor of Mâcon; Agnes Pont, Chair of Mâcon’s Twinning Committee; Macon-Bibb Mayor Lester Miller; Dr.Ficklin; and Charise Stephens.

“It has been an honor to share the story of Macon and its diverse community and expansive culture with our Sister City, and to showcase our community internationally,” says Gary Wheat, Visit Macon President & CEO.

Visit Macon hosted the representatives from Mâcon, France since last Thursday. Led by Director of Destination Development Trish Whitley, that tour included: dining at some favorite downtown restaurants; holding a guided tour of the Ocmulgee Mounds National Historic Park with Tracie Revis & Seth Clark on behalf of the Ocmulgee National Park and Preserve Initiative; touring our historic Capricorn Studios; attending the Central Georgia Greek Festival, Macon Beer Festival, and Arts & Jazz on Riverdale; visiting Lake Tobesofkee, Dickey Farms, Ingleside Village Pizza, Society Garden, the Hay House, and much more.