Melanie Moltmann, German Consul General, was the special guest at the Foley Sister Cities Global Leaders Advisory Council annual meeting, where she emphasized the importance of building friendships and partnerships across the world.

According to a news release, Moltmann told attendees that Sister Cities programs are not political but offer opportunities to learn about other cultures and exchange ideas. She highlighted the value of educational exchanges and the role international partnerships play in fostering understanding.

The meeting also featured Foley Sister Cities’ annual report, offering “A Year in Review” and a “Glimpse to the Future.” The organization noted several accomplishments, including hosting three successful Oktoberfest 5K runs, publishing an international intergenerational cookbook in English and German, completing two educational exchanges, coordinating more than 500 letters between 100 fifth-grade pen pals, participating in three holiday parades and Christmas tree decorating events, and hosting holiday galas with wine tastings and silent auctions. Other community initiatives included restaurant spirit nights and meetings with civic, business and community leaders in both cities.

Foley Sister Cities also unveiled its newest event, the Oktoberfest Golf Jamboree, scheduled for Oct. 23. The event promises an authentic Oktoberfest experience beyond a standard golf tournament.

The organization is preparing for its second educational exchange with Hennef, Germany. During Mardi Gras week 2026, Foley will host teachers and students from Hennef, who will stay with local host families. In June, Foley students and chaperones will travel to Hennef for the return exchange. At the meeting, participating families and students shared their experiences with Advisory Council members, city council members and commissioners.

Chad and Jennifer Watkins, whose two sons have participated in previous exchanges, shared their enthusiasm for welcoming new families into the program.

“As a two-time parent of a student participating in FSC, I couldn’t be more excited to have two more families that will become friends in Germany. It’s really been fun chatting with the new students on-line and meeting the families virtually. I’m also looking forward to my youngest son to experience Germany when they travel this summer. His brother’s stories won’t just be stories; they will be new experiences for him,” Jennifer Watkins said in the release.

Student delegate Lilly Ingram, preparing for the June 2026 exchange, described her excitement for the opportunity.

“I chose to apply to Foley Sister Cities Program because I wanted to trade my comfort zone for a growth zone, moving beyond the familiar to a culture that values deep history, community and a unique way of seeing the world. I know the person who boards that plane will not be the same person who returns. Danke.”

Executive Director Linda B. Spangrud closed the meeting by thanking the community for its support.

“All of this could not have happened without your support. All of you, our city leaders, our advisory council members, our commissioners, our committees, our sponsors, our civic and business leaders, our teachers, our parents, our students, are very important to the success of this program. You all have helped to build friendships across the world. Friendships are the heartbeat of peace.”

The Foley Sister Cities Commission promotes cultural, educational and commercial relationships through international leadership, friendship and understanding, striving to build peace through people.

For more information, visit www.foleysistercities.com or contact foleysistercities@gmail.com.