In May 2004, a delegation of nearly 20 representatives of the Tyler Sister Cities organization traveled to Lo Barnechea, Chile as part of an official visit to its sister city.
A subdivision of the capital city of Santiago, Lo Barnechea has been a sister city of Tyler since 2001. A twinning ceremony was held in Chile in April, while the USA event was held in September of that year.
During the 2004 delegation visit, Lo Barnechea mayor Marta Ehlers Bustamente unveiled a plaque signifying the opening of the Parque de las Rosas (Park of the Roses) as a tribute to the sister city relationship. Tyler Sister Cities President and Police Chief Gary Swindle participated in the ceremony.
The Lo Barnechea Chamber of Commerce also provided a warm welcome to the delegates. Dr. Mac Moseley, Wanda Joyce, and Evalyn Free met with Alex Frenandez, a COBA official who was one of the hosts of the welcome luncheon for the Tyler visitors.
Tyler Sister Cities vice president Betty Bower presented a gift to the conductor of a newly organized youth orchestra in Lo Barnechea.
Another highlight of the trip was a puppet show at the Lo Barnechea children’s library, which drew approval from Tyler representatives Wanda Joyce, Tyler City Councilwoman Joyce Scurry, and Evalyn Free.
The delegation also got to witness children visiting a dental clinic offering free treatment and exams during school. Low income residents of the community receive the medical care through funding from the wealthy municipality and Chile’s Ministry of Health offers a variety of resources for all citizens through a national insurance system. Teachers accompany the class so that lessons are not disrupted during clinics.
Tyler Sister Cities 