Foley, Ala. — (OBA) —  Foley Sister Cities is celebrating a major international milestone with a month of special events marking 70 years of Sister Cities International. Activities include a city proclamation, a library exhibit, and the inaugural Oktoberfest Golf Jamboree. The events highlight Foley's ongoing friendship with its sister city, Hennef, Germany. This year's celebration theme is "Building Friendships: The Heartbeat of Peace."

The celebration is scheduled to coincide with Sister City International Day on October 14, which commemorates the vision President Dwight D. Eisenhower launched in 1956. Eisenhower believed that friendships between communities in different countries would promote cultural understanding and help build a more peaceful world.

During the City Council meeting on Monday, October 5, the City of Foley formally recognized Sister Cities International Day with a special proclamation. The proclamation honored the global friendships and cultural exchanges that connect communities across borders.

Over the past four years, Foley has embraced Eisenhower's vision through its partnership with Hennef, Germany. The city has hosted three Oktoberfest 5K Runs, organized four student exchanges and one adult exchange, and published an international intergenerational cookbook. Plans include arts and cultural programs and adult global leadership exchanges.

Throughout October, visitors can explore a free interactive exhibit at the new Foley Community Library. The exhibit features photos of Hennef and the German countryside, slideshows from past exchange trips, artwork, and information on how residents can get involved with Foley Sister Cities.

On Friday, October 23, 2026, the Foley Sister Cities Commission and title sponsor Riviera Utilities will host the inaugural Foley Sister Cities Oktoberfest Golf Jamboree at GlenLakes Golf Club. Although golf teams and major sponsorships are sold out, tickets for the evening Oktoberfest celebration remain available to the public for $35 per person. The event runs from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and features authentic German food and beverages, along with a live seven-piece German band. Proceeds support Foley Sister Cities projects and ongoing exchange programs.

Mayor Ralph Hellmich spoke to the anniversary's significance. "Seventy years ago, President Eisenhower recognized the power of people connecting with one another," Hellmich said. "Foley's friendship with Hennef shows how this vision continues today."

Executive Director Linda B. Spangrud echoed those sentiments. "Sister Cities is about much more than cities — it is about friendships, cultural understanding, and creating connections that last a lifetime, from generation to generation," Spangrud said.

During the festivities, the Foley Sister Cities Commission will also honor two retiring founding Commissioners for their leadership and dedication. The honorees are Ms. Jada Duffy, Assistant Principal at Foley High School, and Dr. Michael Roy, Associate Director of Elementary Schools' Bands. Both were key figures in the organization's early years.

For more information or to get involved with Foley Sister Cities, visit www.foleysistercities.com or contact Executive Director Linda B. Spangrud at foleysistercities@gmail.com.