France/Building on a sister-city relationship that began more than 10 years ago, this committee is ready to plan additional gatherings and events

On the last weekend of August, members of the Saint-Maxire (Deux-Sèvres) sister city committee took part in the patron saint festivities in Saint-Pandelon, in the Landes region. Amid the festivities and traditions, a lasting friendship was forged.

The sister-city relationship between Saint-Maxire and Saint-Pandelon, in the Landes region, is deeply rooted in both communities. Since its inception in 2013, spearheaded at the time by Jean Grellier, exchanges between the two towns have steadily fostered a lasting friendship. Sylvie Gilbert and Thierry Passebon, the co-chairs who replaced Joël Neau a few months ago, look back on last weekend’s event, which took place a few days before the association’s yard sale.

You’ve just returned from the Landes for a festive weekend?

Sylvie Gilbert and Thierry Passebon: “The residents of Saint-Maxir met once again with their twin town’s residents from Saint-Pandélon during the patron saint festivities, which took place in the village near Dax from August 28 to 30.”

Another wonderful exchange?

“Tradition dictates that the mayor of the host village hands over the keys to the town to the 18-year-olds. The municipality of Saint-Pandelon and the local organizations put together a wonderful program that we took part in. Sports play a major role, with a hike that lets us explore the Landes countryside, or a run, followed by a meal and time spent around the traditional bodega.”

So many good memories?

“One of the most memorable moments was the Sunday morning Mass celebrated by the priest, accompanied by a brass band and a choir singing traditional Landes songs. This magnificent moment, like the others we’ve already experienced, makes us glad we took on the co-presidency. In addition to the usual activities, we’d like to develop other events that would involve new people. Why not organize sports events (soccer, running) and bring schools together through collaborative projects? The twinning committee is ready to support these exchanges.”

Source: ouestfrance