FOLEY, AL - Foley Sister Cities is kicking off October with celebrations honoring a major milestone in international friendship and peace. In celebration of Sister Cities International’s 70th Anniversary, events include a city proclamation, a month-long library exhibit, and the inaugural Oktoberfest Golf Jamboree. The activities will highlight Foley’s partnership with Hennef, Germany, and the lasting community connections built between them.

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

Foley has embraced that vision through a sister-city partnership with Hennef, Germany. Over the past four years, Foley has hosted three Oktoberfest 5K Runs, launched the Oktoberfest Golf Jamboree, organized four student exchanges, an adult exchange, and published an international intergenerational cookbook. Looking ahead, future initiatives include arts and cultural programs, adult global leadership exchanges, and more.

The City of Foley will formally recognize Sister Cities International Day with a special proclamation during the City Council meeting on Monday, October 5, honoring the global friendships and cultural exchanges that unite communities across borders.

Celebrations will continue throughout October at the new Foley Community Library. The month-long interactive exhibit will offer visitors an inside look at Foley’s relationship with Hennef, featuring photos of the city of Hennef and German countryside, slideshows of past exchange trips, artwork, and information on how local residents can get involved.

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. While golf teams and major sponsorships are sold out, tickets are still available to the public for the evening Oktoberfest celebration ($35). Running from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., the event features authentic German food, beverages, and a live seven-piece German band. Proceeds directly support Foley Sister Cities projects and ongoing exchange programs.

“Seventy years ago, President Eisenhower recognized the power of people connecting with people,” said Mayor Ralph Hellmich. “Foley’s friendship with Hennef represents how this vision continues today.”

“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,“ said Linda B. Spangrud, Executive Director of Foley Sister Cities. She believes with all her heart and soul that Foley is doing just that.

During the festivities, the Foley Sister Cities Commission will also honor two retiring founding Commissioners for their leadership and dedication: Ms. Jada Duffy, Assistant Principal at Foley High School, and Dr. Michael Roy, Associate Director of Elementary Schools’ Bands. Both served as vital pillars during the organization’s formative years.

About Foley Sister Cities Commission:

The Foley Sister Cities Commission exists to promote cultural, educational, and commercial relationships through international leadership, friendship and understanding developing citizen diplomacy. Ultimately, “Building Peace Through People”. To learn more or get involved, visit www.foleysistercities.com or contact Executive Director Linda B. Spangrud at foleysistercities@gmail.com.