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Japanese New Year’s Celebration Big Success!

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

Oshogatsu Celebration  – Year of the Snake

What an amazing Oshogatsu Celebration held in January. From fabulous Asian foods to the sounds of Taiko drummers the event was incredibly successful. Over 100 people joined in to celebrate the Japanese New Year and learn and experience more about Japanese culture. Domo Arigato to Nagaoka Chair Tom Brents and the committee for their work on the event. Join us next year for the celebration of 2014 – The Year of the Horse. Fort Worth, TX – The Nagaoka, Japan committee of Fort Worth Sister Cities plans to stage an authentic  Japanese Oshogatsu celebration (Japanese New Year’s celebration), January 24th at the Botanical Research Institute of Texas.  The evening will feature international cuisine, entertainment, and a raffle. Oshogatsu is the celebration of the Japanese New Year and is considered to be one of the most important  annual festivals and holidays in Japan.  “The Japanese look to Oshogatsu as a time for peace and resolution.   It provides people with a sense of renewal,” said Tom Brents, Sister Cities’ Nagaoka Chair.  In Japan, houses can be found decorated with origami and special good luck charms of cranes and turtles that signify hope and happiness for the New Year. Sister Cities stages international events and programs as a way to bring the world to Fort Worth and connect globally as citizen diplomats.  “Despite the fact that technology has made the world a smaller place and facilitated communication, humanity is just as much in conflict.  It is imperative that we prepare ourselves with skills and cultural understanding necessary to function in an increasingly globalized world.   Sister Cities has programs that do just that,” said Board Chairwoman Ann Rice. Cost for the event is $25.00 for Sister Cities’ members and $30.00 non-members.   For more information, please contact Beth Weibel, Sr. Program Manager of Sister Cities at beth@fwsistercities.org.  You may purchase tickets here: https://www.fwsistercities.org/2013-oshogatsu-the-year-of-the-snake

2013-01-25 10:46

Japanese New Year’s Celebration Big Success!

Oshogatsu Celebration  – Year of the Snake

What an amazing Oshogatsu Celebration held in January. From fabulous Asian foods to the sounds of Taiko drummers the event was incredibly successful. Over 100 people joined in to celebrate the Japanese New Year and learn and experience more about Japanese culture. Domo Arigato to Nagaoka Chair Tom Brents and the committee for their work on the event. Join us next year for the celebration of 2014 – The Year of the Horse. Fort Worth, TX – The Nagaoka, Japan committee of Fort Worth Sister Cities plans to stage an authentic  Japanese Oshogatsu celebration (Japanese New Year’s celebration), January 24th at the Botanical Research Institute of Texas.  The evening will feature international cuisine, entertainment, and a raffle. Oshogatsu is the celebration of the Japanese New Year and is considered to be one of the most important  annual festivals and holidays in Japan.  “The Japanese look to Oshogatsu as a time for peace and resolution.   It provides people with a sense of renewal,” said Tom Brents, Sister Cities’ Nagaoka Chair.  In Japan, houses can be found decorated with origami and special good luck charms of cranes and turtles that signify hope and happiness for the New Year. Sister Cities stages international events and programs as a way to bring the world to Fort Worth and connect globally as citizen diplomats.  “Despite the fact that technology has made the world a smaller place and facilitated communication, humanity is just as much in conflict.  It is imperative that we prepare ourselves with skills and cultural understanding necessary to function in an increasingly globalized world.   Sister Cities has programs that do just that,” said Board Chairwoman Ann Rice. Cost for the event is $25.00 for Sister Cities’ members and $30.00 non-members.   For more information, please contact Beth Weibel, Sr. Program Manager of Sister Cities at beth@fwsistercities.org.  You may purchase tickets here: https://www.fwsistercities.org/2013-oshogatsu-the-year-of-the-snake

Sister Cities Elects New Leadership 2012

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities
Fort Worth, TX – Fort Worth Sister Cities elects new board of directors at annual meeting Dec. 6th Newly elected officers are Board Chair, Ann Rice, United Way; Chair-Elect Michael Bennett, Bennett Benner Pettit; Secretary, Denise Whitfield; and Treasurer, Cee Yager, Worthington National Bank.  New board members include: L.O. Brightbill III, Thomas Fairchild, Tre Garrett, Greg Irwin, Marianne Leal, Kara Peterson, Mary Jo Polidore, Michael Roemer and Mac Zimmerman. “The annual meeting is a time to review accomplishments and recognize those responsible for our success,” said Brad Mahon Chairman of the Board.  “This year we signed Guiyang, China as our eighth sister city;   celebrated 25th anniversaries with Nagaoka, Japan and Trier, Germany; hosted firefighters from Indonesia, an organist from Germany; added a new Director Emeriti, Hilde Horchler; and won our 8th Best Overall  Program in the U.S. award,” said Mahon. Sister Cities also recognized individuals and businesses for outstanding service.  The Fort Worth Independent School District was awarded the Eisenhower Award for Organizational Involvement. Paul Geisel was awarded the prestigious Bob Bolen Award for Outstanding Board Leadership and Mary Eckelbarger was awarded the Yamagata Emerging Leaders Scholarship. Youth Volunteer of the Year went to Zack Kurima and Volunteer of the Year to Cody Cox.   https://www.fwsistercities.org/about-us/awards Other elected officers include:
Past Chairman/Nominating, Brad Mahon, Murphy Mahon Keffler & Farrier
Development Chair, Jeff King, Northern Trust Co.
Government Relations, Michael Hyatt, UBS Financial Services, Inc.
Marketing Chair, Kara Peterson, Alcon Laboratories
Long Range Planning, Julie Johncox, JP Solutions
Program Chair, Eva Bonilla
At-Large, Travis DeVault, BNSF Railways
At-Large, James Meintges, JP Morgan Chase
At-Large, Mary Jo Polidore, DFW International Airport
Bandung Chair, Brent Clifford
Budapest Chair, Mac Zimmerman
Guiyang Chair, Albon Head, Jackson Walker, LLP
Mbabane Chair, Dr. Staussa Ervin
Nagaoka Chair, Tom Brents
Reggio Emilia Chair, Veronica Chavez Law, Decker Jones LLP
Toluca Chair, Doug Harman
Emerging Leaders Network, Andrea Ballard
“We have many things to look forward to next year.  We’re going to Indonesia and Swaziland in June;  and we have 75 students going to Fort Worth’s sister cities on educational exchanges,”  said Ann Rice, new Board Chairperson.  “We do this because we’re citizen diplomats.  We care what the world thinks about the U.S. and we want to know more about the rest of the world.” For more information, please contact Mae Ferguson, President/CEO at 817/632-7104 or email.

2012-12-17 01:10

Sister Cities Elects New Leadership 2012

Fort Worth, TX – Fort Worth Sister Cities elects new board of directors at annual meeting Dec. 6th Newly elected officers are Board Chair, Ann Rice, United Way; Chair-Elect Michael Bennett, Bennett Benner Pettit; Secretary, Denise Whitfield; and Treasurer, Cee Yager, Worthington National Bank.  New board members include: L.O. Brightbill III, Thomas Fairchild, Tre Garrett, Greg Irwin, Marianne Leal, Kara Peterson, Mary Jo Polidore, Michael Roemer and Mac Zimmerman. “The annual meeting is a time to review accomplishments and recognize those responsible for our success,” said Brad Mahon Chairman of the Board.  “This year we signed Guiyang, China as our eighth sister city;   celebrated 25th anniversaries with Nagaoka, Japan and Trier, Germany; hosted firefighters from Indonesia, an organist from Germany; added a new Director Emeriti, Hilde Horchler; and won our 8th Best Overall  Program in the U.S. award,” said Mahon. Sister Cities also recognized individuals and businesses for outstanding service.  The Fort Worth Independent School District was awarded the Eisenhower Award for Organizational Involvement. Paul Geisel was awarded the prestigious Bob Bolen Award for Outstanding Board Leadership and Mary Eckelbarger was awarded the Yamagata Emerging Leaders Scholarship. Youth Volunteer of the Year went to Zack Kurima and Volunteer of the Year to Cody Cox.   https://www.fwsistercities.org/about-us/awards Other elected officers include:

Past Chairman/Nominating, Brad Mahon, Murphy Mahon Keffler & Farrier
Development Chair, Jeff King, Northern Trust Co.
Government Relations, Michael Hyatt, UBS Financial Services, Inc.
Marketing Chair, Kara Peterson, Alcon Laboratories
Long Range Planning, Julie Johncox, JP Solutions
Program Chair, Eva Bonilla
At-Large, Travis DeVault, BNSF Railways
At-Large, James Meintges, JP Morgan Chase
At-Large, Mary Jo Polidore, DFW International Airport
Bandung Chair, Brent Clifford
Budapest Chair, Mac Zimmerman
Guiyang Chair, Albon Head, Jackson Walker, LLP
Mbabane Chair, Dr. Staussa Ervin
Nagaoka Chair, Tom Brents
Reggio Emilia Chair, Veronica Chavez Law, Decker Jones LLP
Toluca Chair, Doug Harman
Emerging Leaders Network, Andrea Ballard
“We have many things to look forward to next year.  We’re going to Indonesia and Swaziland in June;  and we have 75 students going to Fort Worth’s sister cities on educational exchanges,”  said Ann Rice, new Board Chairperson.  “We do this because we’re citizen diplomats.  We care what the world thinks about the U.S. and we want to know more about the rest of the world.” For more information, please contact Mae Ferguson, President/CEO at 817/632-7104 or email.

Local Students to Serve as Fort Worth Ambassadors

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities
Fort Worth, Texas – Students selected to visit 7 Sister Cities 74  students recently completed a vigorous selection process and have been invited to represent the City of  Fort Worth as Ambassadors to seven of eight  of Fort Worth’s sister cities. Youth Ambassador exchanges open the door to the future for students giving them the opportunity to explore history and experience languages, food, culture and arts of the country they visit.  Students live with host families to fully appreciate and develop an    understanding of the culture and its traditions. Exchanges range from 9 to 15 days. The selection process includes written essays, teacher recommendations, report cards and in-person interviews conducted by the teachers who lead the delegations abroad. Students make friends around the world while developing essential skills to be successful in a global society.  “We had nearly 80 students apply this year for international exchanges.  It is a very competitive process and we feel we have an outstanding class to represent Fort Worth abroad next year,” said Eva Bonilla, Chair of the Programs and Exchanges committee of Fort Worth Sister Cities. The 2013 exchanges are scheduled for March and June to Reggio Emilia & Florence Italy; Budapest, Hungary & Vienna, Austria; Trier, Cologne & Frankfurt, Germany; Nagaoka & Tokyo, Japan; and Mbabane, Swaziland & Johannesburg, South Africa.  A group will also  travel to Guiyang, Beijing and Xian, China in July. This year’s Ambassadors represent students from FWISD, Eagle Mountain-Saginaw ISD, and several private schools.  Scholarship assistance of nearly $85,000 is awarded annually insuring a diverse group of students representing Fort Worth.

2012-11-15 05:44

Local Students to Serve as Fort Worth Ambassadors

Fort Worth, Texas – Students selected to visit 7 Sister Cities 74  students recently completed a vigorous selection process and have been invited to represent the City of  Fort Worth as Ambassadors to seven of eight  of Fort Worth’s sister cities. Youth Ambassador exchanges open the door to the future for students giving them the opportunity to explore history and experience languages, food, culture and arts of the country they visit.  Students live with host families to fully appreciate and develop an    understanding of the culture and its traditions. Exchanges range from 9 to 15 days. The selection process includes written essays, teacher recommendations, report cards and in-person interviews conducted by the teachers who lead the delegations abroad. Students make friends around the world while developing essential skills to be successful in a global society.  “We had nearly 80 students apply this year for international exchanges.  It is a very competitive process and we feel we have an outstanding class to represent Fort Worth abroad next year,” said Eva Bonilla, Chair of the Programs and Exchanges committee of Fort Worth Sister Cities. The 2013 exchanges are scheduled for March and June to Reggio Emilia & Florence Italy; Budapest, Hungary & Vienna, Austria; Trier, Cologne & Frankfurt, Germany; Nagaoka & Tokyo, Japan; and Mbabane, Swaziland & Johannesburg, South Africa.  A group will also  travel to Guiyang, Beijing and Xian, China in July. This year’s Ambassadors represent students from FWISD, Eagle Mountain-Saginaw ISD, and several private schools.  Scholarship assistance of nearly $85,000 is awarded annually insuring a diverse group of students representing Fort Worth.

Dance Champions Named at Sister Cities Event 2012

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

Fort Worth, Texas–DeVaults named champions at Dancing with the Sister Cities Stars 

2012 Dance Champions Travis and Catharine DeVault Travis and Catharine DeVault were awarded the mirrored ball trophy as the 2012 Dance Champions at this year’s Mayor’s International Dinner benefitting Sister Cities.   Travis is Director of Customer Support at BNSF Railway and Catharine a 9th grade teacher. They performed a sultry tango to the Eurthymics Sweet Dreams. Joe Berry & Janee Harrell – 2nd place winners! Close behind in 2ndplace were Joe Berry of Winslow’s Café and Janee Harrell, The Janee Show and State Rep. Kelly & Robin Hancock rounded out the top three. Mayor Kenneth & Ashley Shetter who sported a 50s costume took home the honors for Best Costume.  Councilman Dennis & Cindy Shingleton were awarded the Headed to Broadway trophy for a lively Swing number with a “surprise” ending. The event was Chaired by Michael Guyton, Vice President of ONCOR and hosted by Mayor Betsy Price.  Dancing with the Sister Cities Stars was a huge success raising over $150,000 to support Sister Cities’ efforts to provide educational, cultural and economic opportunities for all Fort Worth citizens. The surprise of the night was the Stompin’ Studs.  These brave businessmen danced to the Broadway hit, Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, and wowed the crowd with their dancing skills.  They included:  Henry Borbolla, Carlo Capua, Bob Jameson, David Goodroe, Glen Hahn, Greg Kalina, Andy Taft, Robert Sturns, David Parker, Matt Graves, TD Smyers, Chris Edwards, Chief Jeff Halstead and Lee Rogers. Another crowd pleaser was the Dance of Champions.  This group was made up of champions from the last two years including Mary Palko & Owen Daniel, Greg & Tina Kalina, Johnny & Sherry Campbell, Mark & Robin Nurdin, Henry & Becky Renfro Borbolla and Paul & Harriet Harral. Sixteen incredible couples entertained the audience with their various renditions of disco, swing, waltz and tango. Rep. Kelly & Robin Hancock 3rd place winners! Regardless of talent, they were all entertaining with their flamboyant and sometimes reckless performances.    They included: Rep. Kelly & Robin Hancock; City Councilman Dennis & Cindy Shingleton; Mayor Kenneth & Ashley Shetter; Chris & County Clerk Mary Louise Garcia; Kyle Arnold & Andrea Ballard; Capt. Rob & Lori Bennett; Joe Berry & Janee Harrell; Travis & Catharine DeVault; Steve & Rebecca Montgomery; Bob & Sally Parmelee; Charlie & Beverly Powell; Greg & Jeanine Ricks; Clint Riley & Kelly Campbell; Marshall & Annette Searcy; and Fred Slabach & Melany Neilson.

Videos of the evening coming soon to our You Tube channel – Stompin’ Studs Preview Video

2012-11-02 02:23

Dance Champions Named at Sister Cities Event 2012

Fort Worth, Texas–DeVaults named champions at Dancing with the Sister Cities Stars 

2012 Dance Champions Travis and Catharine DeVault Travis and Catharine DeVault were awarded the mirrored ball trophy as the 2012 Dance Champions at this year’s Mayor’s International Dinner benefitting Sister Cities.   Travis is Director of Customer Support at BNSF Railway and Catharine a 9th grade teacher. They performed a sultry tango to the Eurthymics Sweet Dreams. Joe Berry & Janee Harrell – 2nd place winners! Close behind in 2ndplace were Joe Berry of Winslow’s Café and Janee Harrell, The Janee Show and State Rep. Kelly & Robin Hancock rounded out the top three. Mayor Kenneth & Ashley Shetter who sported a 50s costume took home the honors for Best Costume.  Councilman Dennis & Cindy Shingleton were awarded the Headed to Broadway trophy for a lively Swing number with a “surprise” ending. The event was Chaired by Michael Guyton, Vice President of ONCOR and hosted by Mayor Betsy Price.  Dancing with the Sister Cities Stars was a huge success raising over $150,000 to support Sister Cities’ efforts to provide educational, cultural and economic opportunities for all Fort Worth citizens. The surprise of the night was the Stompin’ Studs.  These brave businessmen danced to the Broadway hit, Best Little Whorehouse in Texas, and wowed the crowd with their dancing skills.  They included:  Henry Borbolla, Carlo Capua, Bob Jameson, David Goodroe, Glen Hahn, Greg Kalina, Andy Taft, Robert Sturns, David Parker, Matt Graves, TD Smyers, Chris Edwards, Chief Jeff Halstead and Lee Rogers. Another crowd pleaser was the Dance of Champions.  This group was made up of champions from the last two years including Mary Palko & Owen Daniel, Greg & Tina Kalina, Johnny & Sherry Campbell, Mark & Robin Nurdin, Henry & Becky Renfro Borbolla and Paul & Harriet Harral. Sixteen incredible couples entertained the audience with their various renditions of disco, swing, waltz and tango. Rep. Kelly & Robin Hancock 3rd place winners! Regardless of talent, they were all entertaining with their flamboyant and sometimes reckless performances.    They included: Rep. Kelly & Robin Hancock; City Councilman Dennis & Cindy Shingleton; Mayor Kenneth & Ashley Shetter; Chris & County Clerk Mary Louise Garcia; Kyle Arnold & Andrea Ballard; Capt. Rob & Lori Bennett; Joe Berry & Janee Harrell; Travis & Catharine DeVault; Steve & Rebecca Montgomery; Bob & Sally Parmelee; Charlie & Beverly Powell; Greg & Jeanine Ricks; Clint Riley & Kelly Campbell; Marshall & Annette Searcy; and Fred Slabach & Melany Neilson.

Videos of the evening coming soon to our You Tube channel – Stompin’ Studs Preview Video

Trinity Valley School Hosts Students from Toluca, Mexico 2012

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities
Ten high school students from Toluca, Mexico’s Tec de Monterrey Multicultural Program will spend three weeks in Fort Worth hosted by Trinity Valley High School Nov. 19 – Dec. 7th.  TVS is one of several Ambassador Schools this year hosting student delegations from Fort Worth’s Sister Cities. Trinity Valley’s Director of Global Initiatives, Dr. Michael Roemer, has planned an enriched program.  The exchange begins with a traditional Thanksgiving celebration with host families. The last two weeks will include classes in Environmental Science and various club activities such as the World Cultures and Sustainability Club meetings. “Hosting this exchange at Trinity Valley School helps our students learn the value of diversity and to seek commonalities that tie us together,” said Dr. Roemer.  Trinity Valley School’s Global Initiatives program is committed to educating K-12 students to become aware of and engaged with the world. The Toluca students will also take part in educational programs at the Botanical Research Institute of Texas and BNSF Railways.  Cultural tours are planned to the Stockyards, Cowboys Stadium, the Amon Carter Museum and Kimbell Art Museum.  Opportunities for the students to enjoy a true western experience on horseback are also planned. The goal of the exchange is to provide an international experience for the students that will inspire global understanding, as well as, an opportunity to share their cultural heritage and traditions. The experience will also provide opportunities for the Toluca students to learn about the U.S. educational system and develop new friendships through a home hosted experience with Fort Worth families. The Toluca students must complete an international exchange as part of their graduation credits and chose to visit Fort Worth.   Sister Cities will facilitate this exchange through the Ambassador School Program conducted with various high schools for a 2 to 3 week period. The participating Fort Worth schools support the requirements of the students through academic, entrepreneurial and institutional visits.

2012-10-10 11:00

Trinity Valley School Hosts Students from Toluca, Mexico 2012

Ten high school students from Toluca, Mexico’s Tec de Monterrey Multicultural Program will spend three weeks in Fort Worth hosted by Trinity Valley High School Nov. 19 – Dec. 7th.  TVS is one of several Ambassador Schools this year hosting student delegations from Fort Worth’s Sister Cities. Trinity Valley’s Director of Global Initiatives, Dr. Michael Roemer, has planned an enriched program.  The exchange begins with a traditional Thanksgiving celebration with host families. The last two weeks will include classes in Environmental Science and various club activities such as the World Cultures and Sustainability Club meetings. “Hosting this exchange at Trinity Valley School helps our students learn the value of diversity and to seek commonalities that tie us together,” said Dr. Roemer.  Trinity Valley School’s Global Initiatives program is committed to educating K-12 students to become aware of and engaged with the world. The Toluca students will also take part in educational programs at the Botanical Research Institute of Texas and BNSF Railways.  Cultural tours are planned to the Stockyards, Cowboys Stadium, the Amon Carter Museum and Kimbell Art Museum.  Opportunities for the students to enjoy a true western experience on horseback are also planned. The goal of the exchange is to provide an international experience for the students that will inspire global understanding, as well as, an opportunity to share their cultural heritage and traditions. The experience will also provide opportunities for the Toluca students to learn about the U.S. educational system and develop new friendships through a home hosted experience with Fort Worth families. The Toluca students must complete an international exchange as part of their graduation credits and chose to visit Fort Worth.   Sister Cities will facilitate this exchange through the Ambassador School Program conducted with various high schools for a 2 to 3 week period. The participating Fort Worth schools support the requirements of the students through academic, entrepreneurial and institutional visits.

Educators Selected as International Academic Chairs

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities
Fort Worth, TX—Sister Cities Partners with Area Schools on Global Fluency Fort Worth Sister Cities welcomed and recognized the newly appointed International Academic Ambassador Chairs (IAAC) recently at a reception held in the Botanic Gardens.  These educators are selected by the principals in their schools to serve in this capacity for one academic year. The specific goal of an IAAC is to create and promote awareness of international  educational opportunities for Fort Worth youth and educators.  The group is comprised of teachers from each middle and high school both public and private.  The 2012/13 Class consists of:
James Aldridge, Fort Worth Country Day Jay Kurima, TX Academy of Biomedical Science
Dustin Alexander -Trimble Tech High School Kelly LaFarge, International Newcomer Acad
Sefakor Amaa, Arlington Heights High School Krystofer Lang, Western Hills High School
Erin Blythe, TX Academy of Biomedical Science Jean-Marc Montagnon, Benbrook MS
Tonia Butler, Trimble Tech High School Marcia Morgan, R.L. Paschal High School
Josue Cardenas, Polytechnical High School Jaime Morris, W.P. McLean Middle School
Alexandra Checka, Applied Learning Academy Marie Morris, Riverside Middle School
Heath Dollar, Eagle Mountain Saginaw ISD Julie Mullender, Como Montessori MS
Carrie Driscoll, Diamond Hill-Jarvis High School Linda Peters, Morningside Middle School
Tara Forrest, Fort Worth Country Day School Gina Powell, Young Men’s Leadership Acad.
John Foster, William Monnig Middle School Janet Reynolds, Leonard Middle School
Kris Franks, Chisholm Trail High School Christopher Reynolds, Young Women’s
Kristen Gabehart, Dunbar Middle School      Leadership Academy
Cynthia Gonzalez, Meadowbrook Middle Sch. Kelly Richey, North Side High School
Kay Gray, Wedgwood 6th Grade School Dr. Michael Roemer, Trinity Valley School
Bridget Guccione, Nolan Catholic High School Denise Rosas, McLean 6th Grade School
Maurice Hawthorne, O.D. Wyatt High School Gladys Scott, Wedgwood Middle School
Evelyn V. Hayden, Southwest High School Lauren Simenauer, J.P. Elder Middle School
Rachel Henderson Cook, Jean McClung MS Juan Soto, Western Hills High School
Chandra Hough, Fort Worth Academy Konstantin Stakhovich, South Hills High School
Isolina Howard, International Newcomer Acad Matthew Stroup, R.L. Paschal High School
Tiffany Johnston, W.C. Stripling Middle School Gabriel Valdez, Rosemont 6th Grade School
Anna King – Boswell High School Priscilla Williams, Rosemont Middle School
Angela Kornman, All Saints Episcopal School Michele  Wright, Carter-Riverside High School
Lori Zarate, Daggett Montessori Middle School

2012-10-05 10:55

Educators Selected as International Academic Chairs

Fort Worth, TX—Sister Cities Partners with Area Schools on Global Fluency Fort Worth Sister Cities welcomed and recognized the newly appointed International Academic Ambassador Chairs (IAAC) recently at a reception held in the Botanic Gardens.  These educators are selected by the principals in their schools to serve in this capacity for one academic year. The specific goal of an IAAC is to create and promote awareness of international  educational opportunities for Fort Worth youth and educators.  The group is comprised of teachers from each middle and high school both public and private.  The 2012/13 Class consists of:

James Aldridge, Fort Worth Country Day Jay Kurima, TX Academy of Biomedical Science
Dustin Alexander -Trimble Tech High School Kelly LaFarge, International Newcomer Acad
Sefakor Amaa, Arlington Heights High School Krystofer Lang, Western Hills High School
Erin Blythe, TX Academy of Biomedical Science Jean-Marc Montagnon, Benbrook MS
Tonia Butler, Trimble Tech High School Marcia Morgan, R.L. Paschal High School
Josue Cardenas, Polytechnical High School Jaime Morris, W.P. McLean Middle School
Alexandra Checka, Applied Learning Academy Marie Morris, Riverside Middle School
Heath Dollar, Eagle Mountain Saginaw ISD Julie Mullender, Como Montessori MS
Carrie Driscoll, Diamond Hill-Jarvis High School Linda Peters, Morningside Middle School
Tara Forrest, Fort Worth Country Day School Gina Powell, Young Men’s Leadership Acad.
John Foster, William Monnig Middle School Janet Reynolds, Leonard Middle School
Kris Franks, Chisholm Trail High School Christopher Reynolds, Young Women’s
Kristen Gabehart, Dunbar Middle School      Leadership Academy
Cynthia Gonzalez, Meadowbrook Middle Sch. Kelly Richey, North Side High School
Kay Gray, Wedgwood 6th Grade School Dr. Michael Roemer, Trinity Valley School
Bridget Guccione, Nolan Catholic High School Denise Rosas, McLean 6th Grade School
Maurice Hawthorne, O.D. Wyatt High School Gladys Scott, Wedgwood Middle School
Evelyn V. Hayden, Southwest High School Lauren Simenauer, J.P. Elder Middle School
Rachel Henderson Cook, Jean McClung MS Juan Soto, Western Hills High School
Chandra Hough, Fort Worth Academy Konstantin Stakhovich, South Hills High School
Isolina Howard, International Newcomer Acad Matthew Stroup, R.L. Paschal High School
Tiffany Johnston, W.C. Stripling Middle School Gabriel Valdez, Rosemont 6th Grade School
Anna King – Boswell High School Priscilla Williams, Rosemont Middle School
Angela Kornman, All Saints Episcopal School Michele  Wright, Carter-Riverside High School
Lori Zarate, Daggett Montessori Middle School

Generation Hope Laptop Program Kicks Off New Year

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

October marks the kick off for the Generation Hope laptop program. Fort Worth Sister Cities is proud to be the international component for this program, which was founded by Commissioner Roy C. Brooks four years ago. The program provides laptop computers to low income middle school students.

Fort Worth has partnered with educators and students in Toluca, Mexico and Mbabane, Swaziland to facilitate communications with the Gen Hope students. This year, students from Tec de Monterrey in Toluca, Mexico, will blog with 8th grade students from the Gen Hope program. The students will talk with each other about their cultures, their lives, and what school is like in their countries. Sister Cities and Gen Hope also conduct a sister cities day in December, when the students are required to combine learning about how to use power point presentation with researching information about all eight of Fort Worth’s sister cities. They develop presentations which are impressive.

Fort Worth Sister Cities is looking forward to furthering the connection with Gen Hope. We hope they have another great year.

About Gen Hope: The Generation Hope Laptop Program was designed to educate and enhance students’ ability to use technology to achieve academic success. In the fall of 2010, the Generation Hope Laptop Program provided laptops and structured curriculum to over 260 sixth and seventh grade students across eleven schools in the Crowley, Everman, and Fort Worth Independent School Districts. ”The mission of Generation Hope Laptop Program is to nurture, empower and develop the whole child by leveraging technology with computer involvement and global awareness to brighten their life possibilities.”

2012-09-25 08:58

Generation Hope Laptop Program Kicks Off New Year

October marks the kick off for the Generation Hope laptop program. Fort Worth Sister Cities is proud to be the international component for this program, which was founded by Commissioner Roy C. Brooks four years ago. The program provides laptop computers to low income middle school students.

Fort Worth has partnered with educators and students in Toluca, Mexico and Mbabane, Swaziland to facilitate communications with the Gen Hope students. This year, students from Tec de Monterrey in Toluca, Mexico, will blog with 8th grade students from the Gen Hope program. The students will talk with each other about their cultures, their lives, and what school is like in their countries. Sister Cities and Gen Hope also conduct a sister cities day in December, when the students are required to combine learning about how to use power point presentation with researching information about all eight of Fort Worth’s sister cities. They develop presentations which are impressive.

Fort Worth Sister Cities is looking forward to furthering the connection with Gen Hope. We hope they have another great year.

About Gen Hope: The Generation Hope Laptop Program was designed to educate and enhance students’ ability to use technology to achieve academic success. In the fall of 2010, the Generation Hope Laptop Program provided laptops and structured curriculum to over 260 sixth and seventh grade students across eleven schools in the Crowley, Everman, and Fort Worth Independent School Districts. ”The mission of Generation Hope Laptop Program is to nurture, empower and develop the whole child by leveraging technology with computer involvement and global awareness to brighten their life possibilities.”

Trier, Germany and Fort Worth, TX Celebrate 25th Anniversary

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities
Fort Worth and Trier signed as sister cities in June of 1987. Join the celebration this month to commemorate 25 years of friendship with Trier and enjoy German food, music, culture and friendship. The celebration will be held  at Greenwood’s German and European Restaurant, 3522 Blue Bonnet Circle (76109) on Tuesday, Oct. 30th from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Bring your favorite Trier photos to share with the group.  Details about cost for food and drinks to follow. RSVP deadline is Friday, Oct. 26th.

2012-09-25 08:55

Trier, Germany and Fort Worth, TX Celebrate 25th Anniversary

Fort Worth and Trier signed as sister cities in June of 1987. Join the celebration this month to commemorate 25 years of friendship with Trier and enjoy German food, music, culture and friendship. The celebration will be held  at Greenwood’s German and European Restaurant, 3522 Blue Bonnet Circle (76109) on Tuesday, Oct. 30th from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Bring your favorite Trier photos to share with the group.  Details about cost for food and drinks to follow. RSVP deadline is Friday, Oct. 26th.

Sister Cities Sends Young Professionals to Japan on Business Exchange

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities
Fort Worth, TX — Delegates depart October 2—12 for mentorship program Fort Worth Sister Cities  will be sending eight delegates to Nagaoka, Japan next month as part of the Young Professionals Japanese  Business Mentorship Program.  The selected delegates will work for ten days alongside their counterparts in Nagaoka while being home hosted to gain a cultural perspective. The participants include:
  • Marguerite Allen, City of Fort Worth, Economic Development Dept.
  • Hannah Behrens, HGC Real Estate Services
  • Monica Germinario, Refugee One
  • Will Northern, Northern Realty Group
  • Dr. Michael Roemer, Trinity Valley School
  • Anette Soto, U. S. Dept. of Transportation
  • Deborah Sutton, Northwestern Mutual
  • Tracy Williams, TCU Neely School of Business
“These eight delegates will represent Fort Worth both professionally and diplomatically. We are delighted to have them participating in this project and are eager to have them bring back information to share with our business community,” said  Fort Worth Mayor Betsy Price. The purpose of the program is to build a sustainable business model with Japan while learning how to work in an international environment.  The delegates will gain international work        experience, expanded business networks, Japanese protocol training  and a perspective on   global marketplaces.

2012-09-17 04:34

Sister Cities Sends Young Professionals to Japan on Business Exchange

Fort Worth, TX — Delegates depart October 2—12 for mentorship program Fort Worth Sister Cities  will be sending eight delegates to Nagaoka, Japan next month as part of the Young Professionals Japanese  Business Mentorship Program.  The selected delegates will work for ten days alongside their counterparts in Nagaoka while being home hosted to gain a cultural perspective. The participants include:

  • Marguerite Allen, City of Fort Worth, Economic Development Dept.
  • Hannah Behrens, HGC Real Estate Services
  • Monica Germinario, Refugee One
  • Will Northern, Northern Realty Group
  • Dr. Michael Roemer, Trinity Valley School
  • Anette Soto, U. S. Dept. of Transportation
  • Deborah Sutton, Northwestern Mutual
  • Tracy Williams, TCU Neely School of Business
“These eight delegates will represent Fort Worth both professionally and diplomatically. We are delighted to have them participating in this project and are eager to have them bring back information to share with our business community,” said  Fort Worth Mayor Betsy Price. The purpose of the program is to build a sustainable business model with Japan while learning how to work in an international environment.  The delegates will gain international work        experience, expanded business networks, Japanese protocol training  and a perspective on   global marketplaces.

Arlington Heights High School Hosting Students from Bandung, Indonesia

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities
Twelve high school students and two teachers from Bandung, Indonesia will spend two weeks in Fort Worth hosted by Arlington Heights High School as part of the Sister Cities Ambassador School Program October 20th – November 2nd. The goal of the exchange is to provide an international experience that will further promote global understanding, provide an opportunity to share cultural heritage and traditions, learn about the U.S. educational system and develop new international friendships while gaining a personal experience of living with a Fort Worth host family. As part of a reciprocal exchange, Bandung is inviting high school students from Arlington Heights and all area Fort Worth students to their city in June 2013 to further enrich this international program. The Bandung students have also been invited by the Indonesian Consulate in Houston for a weekend to tour NASA and to participate in their local Indonesian Festival where they will perform a cultural dance. They will also tour Austin and the State Capitol.  They will conclude their stay with a full knowledge of Texas history led by Arlington Heights German teacher Cody Cox for this weekend trip to Houston and Austin.

2012-09-17 10:16

Arlington Heights High School Hosting Students from Bandung, Indonesia

Twelve high school students and two teachers from Bandung, Indonesia will spend two weeks in Fort Worth hosted by Arlington Heights High School as part of the Sister Cities Ambassador School Program October 20th – November 2nd. The goal of the exchange is to provide an international experience that will further promote global understanding, provide an opportunity to share cultural heritage and traditions, learn about the U.S. educational system and develop new international friendships while gaining a personal experience of living with a Fort Worth host family. As part of a reciprocal exchange, Bandung is inviting high school students from Arlington Heights and all area Fort Worth students to their city in June 2013 to further enrich this international program. The Bandung students have also been invited by the Indonesian Consulate in Houston for a weekend to tour NASA and to participate in their local Indonesian Festival where they will perform a cultural dance. They will also tour Austin and the State Capitol.  They will conclude their stay with a full knowledge of Texas history led by Arlington Heights German teacher Cody Cox for this weekend trip to Houston and Austin.