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Nîmes, France is Now Fort Worth’s Ninth Sister City

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

Fort Worth, TX – Municipal agreements signed finalizing process

Yesterday, Mayor Jean-Paul Fournier of Nîmes, (pronounced NEEM) France and Councilwoman Ann Zadeh, stepping in for Mayor Price, formally signed municipal agreements to become sister cities at the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth.

The signing ceremony last night was complete with a Presentation of the Colors by the Fort Worth Police Dept. Honor Guard and singing of the French and American National Anthems by the Texas Girls’ Choir. While the ceremony was open and free to the public, a private reception took place afterwards at Café Modern.

Mayor Fournier, along with an official delegation arrived in Fort Worth on Tuesday and have been busy touring the best Fort Worth has to offer, including a visit to the Fort Worth Stockyards, the Kimbell Art Museum, the Bureau of Engraving and Alcon due to an interest of Nîmes to develop business relations in the eye care industry.

This partnership came to fruition as the result of a three-year process which started with a visit to Nîmes by a Fort Worth search team in 2017. The newly-minted relationship has already proven fruitful, as a youth delegation of 21 high school students from Nîmes will arrive in Fort Worth Friday for a ten-day educational exchange hosted by the FWISD World Languages Institute and Fort Worth Country Day School.

Mayor Price will lead a delegation to Nîmes Sept. 25 – Oct. 4, 2019 to sign the reciprocal agreement there. To join the group on this official visit, contact beth@fwsistercities.org.

Nîmes is now the ninth Sister City of Fort Worth.

2019-02-15 11:28

Nîmes, France is Now Fort Worth’s Ninth Sister City

Fort Worth, TX – Municipal agreements signed finalizing process

Yesterday, Mayor Jean-Paul Fournier of Nîmes, (pronounced NEEM) France and Councilwoman Ann Zadeh, stepping in for Mayor Price, formally signed municipal agreements to become sister cities at the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth.

The signing ceremony last night was complete with a Presentation of the Colors by the Fort Worth Police Dept. Honor Guard and singing of the French and American National Anthems by the Texas Girls’ Choir. While the ceremony was open and free to the public, a private reception took place afterwards at Café Modern.

Mayor Fournier, along with an official delegation arrived in Fort Worth on Tuesday and have been busy touring the best Fort Worth has to offer, including a visit to the Fort Worth Stockyards, the Kimbell Art Museum, the Bureau of Engraving and Alcon due to an interest of Nîmes to develop business relations in the eye care industry.

This partnership came to fruition as the result of a three-year process which started with a visit to Nîmes by a Fort Worth search team in 2017. The newly-minted relationship has already proven fruitful, as a youth delegation of 21 high school students from Nîmes will arrive in Fort Worth Friday for a ten-day educational exchange hosted by the FWISD World Languages Institute and Fort Worth Country Day School.

Mayor Price will lead a delegation to Nîmes Sept. 25 – Oct. 4, 2019 to sign the reciprocal agreement there. To join the group on this official visit, contact beth@fwsistercities.org.

Nîmes is now the ninth Sister City of Fort Worth.

Fort Worth Adding Sister City in France

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

FORT WORTH, TX – Mayor Price to sign official agreement in February

Mayor Jean-Paul Fournier, of Nîmes (pronounced NEEM), France, and delegation will travel to Fort Worth Feb. 12-17 to sign the official document to become Fort Worth’s ninth sister city. The official signing will take place between Mayor Price and Fournier at a ceremony on Feb. 13 at the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth at 6:00 p.m. and is free and open to the public.

“Fort Worth is excited to formally welcome Nîmes as our ninth sister city. We look forward to fostering business relationships and expanding cultural exchange opportunities through this partnership,” said Mayor Betsy Price.

Mayor Price will lead a delegation to Nîmes Sept. 25 – Oct. 4 to sign the reciprocal agreement there. To join the group on this official visit, contact beth@fwsistercities.org.

Fort Worth Sister Cities International launched a long-range plan to select new sister cities in countries where they can build mutually beneficial relationships through education, exchanges and commerce. In 2017, Sister Cities sent a delegation to explore the potential partnership with Nîmes, France. A delegation reciprocated with a visit in 2018 to Fort Worth and quickly moved to make the partnership official.

“We are already making plans to welcome our new French friends and share our finest Texas culture,” said Chairwoman of the Board, Veronica Chavez Law. “Future exchanges may focus on education, economic relations, and arts and culture to create understanding and respect of each other’s cultures.”

Anyone interested in learning more about the signing ceremony between Fort Worth and Nîmes can visit https://www.fwsistercities.org/event/official-nimes-signing/.

2019-02-08 06:21

Fort Worth Adding Sister City in France

FORT WORTH, TX – Mayor Price to sign official agreement in February

Mayor Jean-Paul Fournier, of Nîmes (pronounced NEEM), France, and delegation will travel to Fort Worth Feb. 12-17 to sign the official document to become Fort Worth’s ninth sister city. The official signing will take place between Mayor Price and Fournier at a ceremony on Feb. 13 at the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth at 6:00 p.m. and is free and open to the public.

“Fort Worth is excited to formally welcome Nîmes as our ninth sister city. We look forward to fostering business relationships and expanding cultural exchange opportunities through this partnership,” said Mayor Betsy Price.

Mayor Price will lead a delegation to Nîmes Sept. 25 – Oct. 4 to sign the reciprocal agreement there. To join the group on this official visit, contact beth@fwsistercities.org.

Fort Worth Sister Cities International launched a long-range plan to select new sister cities in countries where they can build mutually beneficial relationships through education, exchanges and commerce. In 2017, Sister Cities sent a delegation to explore the potential partnership with Nîmes, France. A delegation reciprocated with a visit in 2018 to Fort Worth and quickly moved to make the partnership official.

“We are already making plans to welcome our new French friends and share our finest Texas culture,” said Chairwoman of the Board, Veronica Chavez Law. “Future exchanges may focus on education, economic relations, and arts and culture to create understanding and respect of each other’s cultures.”

Anyone interested in learning more about the signing ceremony between Fort Worth and Nîmes can visit https://www.fwsistercities.org/event/official-nimes-signing/.

Fort Worth Welcomes French Students

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

FORT WORTH, TX— Sister Cities Partners with Local Schools

Fort Worth welcomes students from its newest sister city, Nîmes, France, this week for the first youth ambassador exchange to Fort Worth. 

Three teachers and 21 students from Nîmes (pronounced NEEM) will be hosted by the World Languages Institute and Fort Worth Country Day School Feb. 15-25. Students will be home hosted by community volunteers giving them a true Texas experience, as well as providing a glimpse of life in America. The students will also attend school and visit cultural sites of interest while in Fort Worth.

“Sister Cities works closely with the Fort Worth ISD and private schools to give students the best opportunity possible to be successful in a global society,” said Veronica Chavez Law, Chairwoman of the Board. “Exchanges, like these, are more important than ever to teach young people the importance of global understanding and respect of other cultures whether here in Fort Worth or abroad.”

The students’ visit overlaps with a visit by Nîmes Mayor Jean-Paul Fournier and delegation who are here to sign the official documents joining Fort Worth and Nîmes as sister cities. The signing ceremony will take place on Feb. 13 at 6:00 pm at the Modern Art Museum and is free and open to the public. Mayors Betsy Price and Fournier will participate in this auspicious occasion. For more information about the Nîmes and Fort Worth signing ceremony go to https://www.fwsistercities.org/event/official-nimes-signing/.

A special reception for the students, as well as Mayor Fournier and the French delegation, will be held at Fort Worth Country Day School on Feb. 16 with special performances by the French and Fort Worth students.

If you know a student who wants to travel to one of Fort Worth’s sister cities in 2020, contact Beth Weibel at beth@fwsistercities.org or visit our website at https://www.fwsistercities.org/what-we-do/youth-exchanges/.

2019-01-25 09:55

Fort Worth Welcomes French Students

FORT WORTH, TX— Sister Cities Partners with Local Schools

Fort Worth welcomes students from its newest sister city, Nîmes, France, this week for the first youth ambassador exchange to Fort Worth. 

Three teachers and 21 students from Nîmes (pronounced NEEM) will be hosted by the World Languages Institute and Fort Worth Country Day School Feb. 15-25. Students will be home hosted by community volunteers giving them a true Texas experience, as well as providing a glimpse of life in America. The students will also attend school and visit cultural sites of interest while in Fort Worth.

“Sister Cities works closely with the Fort Worth ISD and private schools to give students the best opportunity possible to be successful in a global society,” said Veronica Chavez Law, Chairwoman of the Board. “Exchanges, like these, are more important than ever to teach young people the importance of global understanding and respect of other cultures whether here in Fort Worth or abroad.”

The students’ visit overlaps with a visit by Nîmes Mayor Jean-Paul Fournier and delegation who are here to sign the official documents joining Fort Worth and Nîmes as sister cities. The signing ceremony will take place on Feb. 13 at 6:00 pm at the Modern Art Museum and is free and open to the public. Mayors Betsy Price and Fournier will participate in this auspicious occasion. For more information about the Nîmes and Fort Worth signing ceremony go to https://www.fwsistercities.org/event/official-nimes-signing/.

A special reception for the students, as well as Mayor Fournier and the French delegation, will be held at Fort Worth Country Day School on Feb. 16 with special performances by the French and Fort Worth students.

If you know a student who wants to travel to one of Fort Worth’s sister cities in 2020, contact Beth Weibel at beth@fwsistercities.org or visit our website at https://www.fwsistercities.org/what-we-do/youth-exchanges/.

Mark Nurdin Chairing Global Effort

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

GLOBAL CONNECTIONS THRIVE IN FORT WORTH

Fort Worth, Texas – Mark Nurdin Announced as Chair of Sister Cities Campaign

Mark Nurdin, President, Bank of Texas, and 2019 Members Circle of Giving Campaign Chair for Sister Cities, announced to the public today that $203,375 of the $325,000 campaign goal has already been raised for 2019. 

This early support comes from the 100% participation of the Fort Worth Sister Cities board of directors and staff; Visit Fort Worth, Rae and Michael Hyatt, and Texas Health Resources as Premier members; BNSF Railway Company, the Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, and Linebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson as Global members; Bank of Texas, BBVA Compass, Cook Children’s Health Care System, Hillwood, Hilde and Helmut Horchler and Mary Palko as Presidential members; and many others.

Lead donors to this year’s campaign will be recognized at a private reception in February celebrating the new partnership between Fort Worth and Nîmes, France and at the Mayor’s International Dinner and Global Awards on May 23. 

“This is an exciting year for Sister Cities,” said Veronica Chavez Law, Board Chairwoman. “Not only were we recently named as having the best sister city’s program in the nation, but Fort Worth will expand its global connections by signing its ninth sister city, Nîmes, France, on Feb. 13. We are working to strengthen and create even more relationships for Fort Worth and grow the opportunities for youth and adults alike.”

Funding and in-kind support from the City of Fort Worth (4% of Sister Cities’ budget) play a key role in the mission, but most work is made possible through public support like that received through the Members Circle of Giving. To join the Members Circle of Giving, click here.

2019-01-23 02:36

Mark Nurdin Chairing Global Effort

GLOBAL CONNECTIONS THRIVE IN FORT WORTH

Fort Worth, Texas – Mark Nurdin Announced as Chair of Sister Cities Campaign

Mark Nurdin, President, Bank of Texas, and 2019 Members Circle of Giving Campaign Chair for Sister Cities, announced to the public today that $203,375 of the $325,000 campaign goal has already been raised for 2019. 

This early support comes from the 100% participation of the Fort Worth Sister Cities board of directors and staff; Visit Fort Worth, Rae and Michael Hyatt, and Texas Health Resources as Premier members; BNSF Railway Company, the Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, and Linebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson as Global members; Bank of Texas, BBVA Compass, Cook Children’s Health Care System, Hillwood, Hilde and Helmut Horchler and Mary Palko as Presidential members; and many others.

Lead donors to this year’s campaign will be recognized at a private reception in February celebrating the new partnership between Fort Worth and Nîmes, France and at the Mayor’s International Dinner and Global Awards on May 23. 

“This is an exciting year for Sister Cities,” said Veronica Chavez Law, Board Chairwoman. “Not only were we recently named as having the best sister city’s program in the nation, but Fort Worth will expand its global connections by signing its ninth sister city, Nîmes, France, on Feb. 13. We are working to strengthen and create even more relationships for Fort Worth and grow the opportunities for youth and adults alike.”

Funding and in-kind support from the City of Fort Worth (4% of Sister Cities’ budget) play a key role in the mission, but most work is made possible through public support like that received through the Members Circle of Giving. To join the Members Circle of Giving, click here.

Youth Ambassadors Selected for 2019 Exchanges

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

Congratulations to all the students who were selected for Youth Ambassador exchanges in 2019! Students go through a rigorous application and interview process before being selected for travel to one of our sister cities. After selection, students attend cultural orientations to prepare for travel abroad and to get to know the culture of their destination.

A special congratulation to Melany Rodriguez who received the Yamagata Emerging Leader Scholarship for her excellence in community service and leadership. Rodriguez will be using her scholarship to travel to Nagaoka, Japan and attend the International Leadership Academy.

Youth in Indonesia

Bandung, Indonesia – June 17-28, 2019

  • Sarah Arencibia, Westlake Academy
  • Trinity Crockett, World Languages Institute
  • Alicia Flores, Nolan Catholic High School
  • Victoria Gomez, Nolan Catholic High School
  • Randito Howard, Paschal High School
  • Jorge Munoz-Alvarez, World Languages Institute
  • Nyasha Muwalo, Chisholm Trail High School
  • Mariafernanda Nuñez, World Languages Institute

Delegation Leader

  • Tracey Cravens, North Side High School

Associate Delegation Leader

  • Vanessa Garcia, University of Texas at Arlington

Budapest, Hungary – March 9-17, 2019

  • Emily Carrillo, Diamond Hill-Jarvis High School
  • Danna Gaytan, Diamond Hill-Jarvis High School
  • Ashley Helms, Westlake Academy
  • Nicole Helms, Westlake Academy
  • Alexis Jiang, Westlake Academy
  • Nyasha Muwalo, Chisholm Trail High School
  • Zoe Nichols-Payne, Texas Academy of Biomedical Sciences
  • Benjamin Orr, Anderson Private School
  • Emily Pruitt, Marine Creek Collegiate High School
  • Gabriela Urbina, Marine Creek Collegiate High School
  • Sarah Villagran, Paschal High School

Delegations Leader

  • Dawnelle Butler, Westlake Academy

Associate Delegation Leader

  • Ben Cristol, L.K. Hall Elementary School
Running lap in Japan

Nagaoka, Japan – June 19-28, 2019

  • Lizett Espinoza, Western Hills High School
  • Hayden Flowers, Westlake Academy
  • Imani Golightly, Young Women’s Leadership Academy
  • Shania Grant, World Languages Institute
  • Asheria Hart, Cedar Hill Collegiate
  • Alana Hawkins, Cedar Hill Collegiate
  • Dakira Hill, Boswell High School
  • Kassandra Loera, World Languages Institute
  • Jennifer Lozoya, World Languages Institute
  • Kate Malonis, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Kaylee McCurley, Aledo High School
  • Samantha Ramirez, Texas Academy of Biomedical Sciences
  • Kimberly Ruvalcaba, Young Women’s Leadership Academy
  • Kiyanna Smith-Wright, Marine Creek Collegiate High School
  • Mario Terrell II, Young Men’s Leadership Academy

Delegations Leaders

  • Joe Ayala, Western Hills High School
  • Dr. Staussa Ervin, Tarrant County College

Associate Delegation Leaders

  • Tameia Nash, Dallas County Community College District

Nagaoka, Japan Harashin Scholars – July 25-Aug. 4

  • DJ Carter, Arlington Heights High School
  • Erik Cura, Nolan Catholic High School
  • Erin Fishman, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Lilian Hicks, Texas Academy of Biomedical Sciences
  • Will Lourcey, Paschal High School
  • Saleem Razack, Trinity Valley School
  • Kyra Rhoades, Timber Creek High School
  • Bayan Williams, Texas Academy of Biomedical Sciences

Alternates

  • Karen Ayala, Texas Academy of Biomedical Sciences
  • Cameron Garcia, Arlington Heights High School

Delegations Leaders

  • Andréanne Annis, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Angelia Ross, International Newcomers Academy

Reggio Emilia, Italy – March 9-17, 2019

  • Crystal Aguero, Western Hills High School
  • Nosaghare Aiguobasimwin, Marine Creek Collegiate High School
  • Jameson Bauer, Westlake Academy
  • Janie Bradford, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Jude Butler, Westlake Academy
  • Karina Cedillo, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Elisa Duran, Marine Creek Collegiate High School
  • Alicia Flores, Nolan Catholic High School
  • Gabriela Gomez, Nolan Catholic High School
  • Rafael Gomez, Nolan Catholic High School
  • Victoria Gomez, Nolan Catholic High School
  • Niina Havia, Nolan Catholic High School
  • Tiara Jones, Arlington Heights High School
  • Morgan McCullough, Texas Academy of Biomedical Sciences
  • Emme Nelson, Arlington Heights High School
  • Mariafernanda Nuñez, World Languages Institute
  • Skyler Porter, Paschal High School
  • Saleem Razack, Trinity Valley School
  • Umaya Suliman, Paschal High School

Delegations Leaders

  • James Gleaton, Tarrant County College
  • Courtney Smith, Como Montessori School

Toluca, Mexico – March 9-17, 2019

  • Gwendolen Bruce, Southwest High School
  • John Nolan, Paschal High School
  • Felicia Pang, Fort Worth Country Day

Delegation Leaders

  • Marvin Vann Griffith, World Language Institute
  • Cindy Vasquez, City of Fort Worth

Associate Delegation Leader

  • Sam Whiting, George Washington University

Adult Educator Ambassador

  • Alexandria Rodriguez, West Handley Elementary School

Trier, Germany – March 9-17, 2019

  • Alma Briones, North Side High School
  • Rebecca Cichock, Arlington High School
  • Hillary Fillmore, Southwest Christian School
  • Will Hartgraves, Paschal High School
  • Emma Lampka, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Bronwyn Logan, Crowley High School
  • Peren Lopez, Trinity Valley School
  • Katelyn Parham, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Alex Patton, Carroll High School
  • Lauryn Roberts, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Kate Robinson, All Saints Episcopal
  • Jayden Struve, Juan Seguin High School

Delegation Leaders

  • Rob Napier, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Erika Zimmerman, Tarrant County College

Advanced International Leadership Academy in Nagaoka, Japan – Aug. 1-11

  • Savanah Antwine, Texas Online Public School
  • Gabriela Gomez, Nolan Catholic High School
  • Niina Havia, Nolan Catholic High School
  • Gianna Razack, Trinity Valley School
  • Kate Robinson, All Saints Episcopal
  • Melany Rodriguez, World Languages Institute
  • Alexander Roemer, Trinity Valley School
  • William Russell, Paschal High School
  • Irene Strzhemechny, Harmony School of Innovation
  • Mercedes Swinney, The Oakridge School
  • Kimberly Wang, Westlake Academy

Delegation Leaders

  • Jay Kurima, Texas Academy of Biomedical Science
  • Nancy Marchant
  • Nelcy Cardenas, Fort Worth ISD
  • Carlo Capua, Z’s Cafe

Guiyang, China – June 5-15, 2020

  • Jose Garcia, Richland High School
  • Kassandra Loera, World Languages Institute
  • Amy Moreno, North Side High School
  • Jorge Munoz-Alvarez, World Languages Institute
  • Mariafernanda Nuñez, World Languages Institute
  • Anaiah Wiley, Chisholm Trail High School
  • Mark Wong, Fort Worth Country Day

Delegation Leaders

  • Paul Blankenship, Eastern Hills High School
  • Kimberly Tezak-Daus, Diamond Hill- Jarvis High School

Associate Delegation Leader

  • Vanessa Garcia, University of Texas at Arlington

2018-11-28 12:46

Youth Ambassadors Selected for 2019 Exchanges

Congratulations to all the students who were selected for Youth Ambassador exchanges in 2019! Students go through a rigorous application and interview process before being selected for travel to one of our sister cities. After selection, students attend cultural orientations to prepare for travel abroad and to get to know the culture of their destination.

A special congratulation to Melany Rodriguez who received the Yamagata Emerging Leader Scholarship for her excellence in community service and leadership. Rodriguez will be using her scholarship to travel to Nagaoka, Japan and attend the International Leadership Academy.

Youth in Indonesia

Bandung, Indonesia – June 17-28, 2019

  • Sarah Arencibia, Westlake Academy
  • Trinity Crockett, World Languages Institute
  • Alicia Flores, Nolan Catholic High School
  • Victoria Gomez, Nolan Catholic High School
  • Randito Howard, Paschal High School
  • Jorge Munoz-Alvarez, World Languages Institute
  • Nyasha Muwalo, Chisholm Trail High School
  • Mariafernanda Nuñez, World Languages Institute

Delegation Leader

  • Tracey Cravens, North Side High School

Associate Delegation Leader

  • Vanessa Garcia, University of Texas at Arlington

Budapest, Hungary – March 9-17, 2019

  • Emily Carrillo, Diamond Hill-Jarvis High School
  • Danna Gaytan, Diamond Hill-Jarvis High School
  • Ashley Helms, Westlake Academy
  • Nicole Helms, Westlake Academy
  • Alexis Jiang, Westlake Academy
  • Nyasha Muwalo, Chisholm Trail High School
  • Zoe Nichols-Payne, Texas Academy of Biomedical Sciences
  • Benjamin Orr, Anderson Private School
  • Emily Pruitt, Marine Creek Collegiate High School
  • Gabriela Urbina, Marine Creek Collegiate High School
  • Sarah Villagran, Paschal High School

Delegations Leader

  • Dawnelle Butler, Westlake Academy

Associate Delegation Leader

  • Ben Cristol, L.K. Hall Elementary School
Running lap in Japan

Nagaoka, Japan – June 19-28, 2019

  • Lizett Espinoza, Western Hills High School
  • Hayden Flowers, Westlake Academy
  • Imani Golightly, Young Women’s Leadership Academy
  • Shania Grant, World Languages Institute
  • Asheria Hart, Cedar Hill Collegiate
  • Alana Hawkins, Cedar Hill Collegiate
  • Dakira Hill, Boswell High School
  • Kassandra Loera, World Languages Institute
  • Jennifer Lozoya, World Languages Institute
  • Kate Malonis, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Kaylee McCurley, Aledo High School
  • Samantha Ramirez, Texas Academy of Biomedical Sciences
  • Kimberly Ruvalcaba, Young Women’s Leadership Academy
  • Kiyanna Smith-Wright, Marine Creek Collegiate High School
  • Mario Terrell II, Young Men’s Leadership Academy

Delegations Leaders

  • Joe Ayala, Western Hills High School
  • Dr. Staussa Ervin, Tarrant County College

Associate Delegation Leaders

  • Tameia Nash, Dallas County Community College District

Nagaoka, Japan Harashin Scholars – July 25-Aug. 4

  • DJ Carter, Arlington Heights High School
  • Erik Cura, Nolan Catholic High School
  • Erin Fishman, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Lilian Hicks, Texas Academy of Biomedical Sciences
  • Will Lourcey, Paschal High School
  • Saleem Razack, Trinity Valley School
  • Kyra Rhoades, Timber Creek High School
  • Bayan Williams, Texas Academy of Biomedical Sciences

Alternates

  • Karen Ayala, Texas Academy of Biomedical Sciences
  • Cameron Garcia, Arlington Heights High School

Delegations Leaders

  • Andréanne Annis, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Angelia Ross, International Newcomers Academy

Reggio Emilia, Italy – March 9-17, 2019

  • Crystal Aguero, Western Hills High School
  • Nosaghare Aiguobasimwin, Marine Creek Collegiate High School
  • Jameson Bauer, Westlake Academy
  • Janie Bradford, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Jude Butler, Westlake Academy
  • Karina Cedillo, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Elisa Duran, Marine Creek Collegiate High School
  • Alicia Flores, Nolan Catholic High School
  • Gabriela Gomez, Nolan Catholic High School
  • Rafael Gomez, Nolan Catholic High School
  • Victoria Gomez, Nolan Catholic High School
  • Niina Havia, Nolan Catholic High School
  • Tiara Jones, Arlington Heights High School
  • Morgan McCullough, Texas Academy of Biomedical Sciences
  • Emme Nelson, Arlington Heights High School
  • Mariafernanda Nuñez, World Languages Institute
  • Skyler Porter, Paschal High School
  • Saleem Razack, Trinity Valley School
  • Umaya Suliman, Paschal High School

Delegations Leaders

  • James Gleaton, Tarrant County College
  • Courtney Smith, Como Montessori School

Toluca, Mexico – March 9-17, 2019

  • Gwendolen Bruce, Southwest High School
  • John Nolan, Paschal High School
  • Felicia Pang, Fort Worth Country Day

Delegation Leaders

  • Marvin Vann Griffith, World Language Institute
  • Cindy Vasquez, City of Fort Worth

Associate Delegation Leader

  • Sam Whiting, George Washington University

Adult Educator Ambassador

  • Alexandria Rodriguez, West Handley Elementary School

Trier, Germany – March 9-17, 2019

  • Alma Briones, North Side High School
  • Rebecca Cichock, Arlington High School
  • Hillary Fillmore, Southwest Christian School
  • Will Hartgraves, Paschal High School
  • Emma Lampka, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Bronwyn Logan, Crowley High School
  • Peren Lopez, Trinity Valley School
  • Katelyn Parham, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Alex Patton, Carroll High School
  • Lauryn Roberts, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Kate Robinson, All Saints Episcopal
  • Jayden Struve, Juan Seguin High School

Delegation Leaders

  • Rob Napier, Fort Worth Country Day
  • Erika Zimmerman, Tarrant County College

Advanced International Leadership Academy in Nagaoka, Japan – Aug. 1-11

  • Savanah Antwine, Texas Online Public School
  • Gabriela Gomez, Nolan Catholic High School
  • Niina Havia, Nolan Catholic High School
  • Gianna Razack, Trinity Valley School
  • Kate Robinson, All Saints Episcopal
  • Melany Rodriguez, World Languages Institute
  • Alexander Roemer, Trinity Valley School
  • William Russell, Paschal High School
  • Irene Strzhemechny, Harmony School of Innovation
  • Mercedes Swinney, The Oakridge School
  • Kimberly Wang, Westlake Academy

Delegation Leaders

  • Jay Kurima, Texas Academy of Biomedical Science
  • Nancy Marchant
  • Nelcy Cardenas, Fort Worth ISD
  • Carlo Capua, Z’s Cafe

Guiyang, China – June 5-15, 2020

  • Jose Garcia, Richland High School
  • Kassandra Loera, World Languages Institute
  • Amy Moreno, North Side High School
  • Jorge Munoz-Alvarez, World Languages Institute
  • Mariafernanda Nuñez, World Languages Institute
  • Anaiah Wiley, Chisholm Trail High School
  • Mark Wong, Fort Worth Country Day

Delegation Leaders

  • Paul Blankenship, Eastern Hills High School
  • Kimberly Tezak-Daus, Diamond Hill- Jarvis High School

Associate Delegation Leader

  • Vanessa Garcia, University of Texas at Arlington

Fort Worth Welcomes International Students

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

FORT WORTH, TX— Sister Cities Partners with Four Local Schools

Fort Worth welcomes students from sister cities, Trier, Germany and Nagaoka, Japan, this October for youth ambassador exchanges.

18 students from Trier will be hosted by Trinity Valley School and Fort Worth Country Day School Oct. 7-21.. Students will be home hosted by community volunteers and have the opportunity to visit the Museum of Science & History, Museum of Modern Art, the Stockyards and many other Fort Worth favorites.

36 middle school students from Nagaoka, Japan will participate in a middle school exchange, partnering with Fort Worth Country Day School, World Languages Institute, and Young Women’s Leadership Academy. Students and teachers will be visiting Oct. 13-21.

The Japanese students will attend classes, participate in cultural activities and live with Fort Worth families from the participating schools while in Fort Worth gaining an even better understanding of Fort Worth and the U.S.A.

“Sister Cities works closely with the Fort Worth ISD and local private schools to give Fort Worth students the best opportunity possible to be successful in a global society,” said Veronica Chavez Law, Chairwoman of the board. “Exchanges, like these, are more important than ever to teach our young people the importance of global understanding.”

If you’re interested in getting involved and home hosting, please contact Beth Weibel, at beth@fwsistercities.org.

2018-09-28 02:09

Fort Worth Welcomes International Students

FORT WORTH, TX— Sister Cities Partners with Four Local Schools

Fort Worth welcomes students from sister cities, Trier, Germany and Nagaoka, Japan, this October for youth ambassador exchanges.

18 students from Trier will be hosted by Trinity Valley School and Fort Worth Country Day School Oct. 7-21.. Students will be home hosted by community volunteers and have the opportunity to visit the Museum of Science & History, Museum of Modern Art, the Stockyards and many other Fort Worth favorites.

36 middle school students from Nagaoka, Japan will participate in a middle school exchange, partnering with Fort Worth Country Day School, World Languages Institute, and Young Women’s Leadership Academy. Students and teachers will be visiting Oct. 13-21.

The Japanese students will attend classes, participate in cultural activities and live with Fort Worth families from the participating schools while in Fort Worth gaining an even better understanding of Fort Worth and the U.S.A.

“Sister Cities works closely with the Fort Worth ISD and local private schools to give Fort Worth students the best opportunity possible to be successful in a global society,” said Veronica Chavez Law, Chairwoman of the board. “Exchanges, like these, are more important than ever to teach our young people the importance of global understanding.”

If you’re interested in getting involved and home hosting, please contact Beth Weibel, at beth@fwsistercities.org.

Fort Worth Elects Global Leaders

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

Fort Worth, TX – Brackett & Ellis’ Veronica Chavez Law Takes the Reins

Newly elected officers at Fort Worth Sister Cities International’s 33rd Annual Meeting, are Chairwoman, Veronica Chavez Law, Brackett & Ellis; Chair Elect, Becky Renfro Borbolla, Renfro Foods; Past/Nominating Chair, Johnny Campbell, Sundance Square; Treasurer, Frank Tilley, SeatonHill; Secretary, Casey Dyer Oliver, Texas A&M; Development Chair, Rich Lowe, Shackelford, Bowen, McKinley & Norton, LLP; Long Range Planning Chair, Pat Miller, Texas Christian University; Exchanges and Outreach Chair, Dr. Sheryl Harris, Tarrant County College; and Marketing Chair, Lydia Rickard, LCOMM Marketing.

New board members include: Jason Brown, Doss, Knight & Associates; Florence Bruner, Firehouse Auto Sales; David Campbell, Huitt-Zollars; Shanna Cate; Trinity River Vision Authority; Jeff Dyer, Crescent Realty; Cindy Johnson; Rachel Malone, Merrill Lynch; Bonnie Melhart, Texas Christian University; Steve Peglar, WhitleySmith Company; and Andy Roseliep, BB&T.

The Bob Bolen Award for Outstanding Board Leadership was awarded to Dr. Michael Roemer. The Rotary Club of Fort Worth was awarded the Eisenhower Award for Organizational Involvement and Matt Graves received the prestigious Volunteer of the Year award.

San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg, Chairman of the national office of Sister Cities International in Washington, D.C., spoke to the Members Circle about the importance of sister city relationships. “As mayor, I believe that the most important infrastructure any city can invest in is its relationships with other people, cultures, and cities. By building bridges for peace and creating cities of opportunity, we can thrive in a 21st global economy,” said Nirenberg. “These connections not only add cultural value, but have unlimited economic potential.”

Board members returning for a 2nd term include: Michael Crain, Dr. Paul Geisel, Dr. Michael Jacobsson and Walter Stucker. City chairs to serve a two-year term are: Bonnie Melhart, Bandung, Indonesia; Jason Brown, Budapest, Hungary; Robert Fitzgerald, Guiyang, China; Nommo Donald,  Mbabane, eSwatini; Libby Watson, Nagaoka, Japan; Rachel Malone, Nîmes, France; Dr. Michael Jacobsson, Reggio Emilia, Italy; Florence Bruner, Toluca, Mexico; and Shanna Cate, Trier, Germany.

Click here to see photos from the event.

2018-09-28 02:03

Fort Worth Elects Global Leaders

Fort Worth, TX – Brackett & Ellis’ Veronica Chavez Law Takes the Reins

Newly elected officers at Fort Worth Sister Cities International’s 33rd Annual Meeting, are Chairwoman, Veronica Chavez Law, Brackett & Ellis; Chair Elect, Becky Renfro Borbolla, Renfro Foods; Past/Nominating Chair, Johnny Campbell, Sundance Square; Treasurer, Frank Tilley, SeatonHill; Secretary, Casey Dyer Oliver, Texas A&M; Development Chair, Rich Lowe, Shackelford, Bowen, McKinley & Norton, LLP; Long Range Planning Chair, Pat Miller, Texas Christian University; Exchanges and Outreach Chair, Dr. Sheryl Harris, Tarrant County College; and Marketing Chair, Lydia Rickard, LCOMM Marketing.

New board members include: Jason Brown, Doss, Knight & Associates; Florence Bruner, Firehouse Auto Sales; David Campbell, Huitt-Zollars; Shanna Cate; Trinity River Vision Authority; Jeff Dyer, Crescent Realty; Cindy Johnson; Rachel Malone, Merrill Lynch; Bonnie Melhart, Texas Christian University; Steve Peglar, WhitleySmith Company; and Andy Roseliep, BB&T.

The Bob Bolen Award for Outstanding Board Leadership was awarded to Dr. Michael Roemer. The Rotary Club of Fort Worth was awarded the Eisenhower Award for Organizational Involvement and Matt Graves received the prestigious Volunteer of the Year award.

San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg, Chairman of the national office of Sister Cities International in Washington, D.C., spoke to the Members Circle about the importance of sister city relationships. “As mayor, I believe that the most important infrastructure any city can invest in is its relationships with other people, cultures, and cities. By building bridges for peace and creating cities of opportunity, we can thrive in a 21st global economy,” said Nirenberg. “These connections not only add cultural value, but have unlimited economic potential.”

Board members returning for a 2nd term include: Michael Crain, Dr. Paul Geisel, Dr. Michael Jacobsson and Walter Stucker. City chairs to serve a two-year term are: Bonnie Melhart, Bandung, Indonesia; Jason Brown, Budapest, Hungary; Robert Fitzgerald, Guiyang, China; Nommo Donald,  Mbabane, eSwatini; Libby Watson, Nagaoka, Japan; Rachel Malone, Nîmes, France; Dr. Michael Jacobsson, Reggio Emilia, Italy; Florence Bruner, Toluca, Mexico; and Shanna Cate, Trier, Germany.

Click here to see photos from the event.

Sister Cities and Oktoberfest Fort Worth Introduce “Bier” Collaboration

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

New initiative hopes to launch more commerce between Trier, Germany and Fort Worth

Fort Worth Sister Cities International, Wild Acre Brewing Co. and sister city Trier, Germany are partnering to introduce the first-ever collaborative “bier” at the Fort Wurst Corporate Night, on September 26 at The Shack on Panther Island. This new festival preview will kick off the fifth annual Oktoberfest Fort Worth. The brewmaster from Trier-based Kraft Bräu brewery will be part of the team to tap the keg of the collaborative beer called Wild Acre Kraft Haus Lager.

The project is an effort to encourage and grow business exchange opportunities between Trier and Fort Worth. With the craft beer industry growing in both regions, Christian Luxem, director of Trier City Council’s Business Development came up with the idea of the “Bier project” a craft beer collaboration that could provide an opportunity for international idea and product exchange.

“Such a project can contribute to promote the bilateral economical relations between the two cities,” says Luxem.

The recipe for Wild Acre Kraft Haus was developed by Kraft Bräu brewery and brewed by Wild Acre in Fort Worth. The two brewmasters stayed in constant contact to ensure the beer was brewed in Fort Worth, but stayed true to the German taste and standards. The beer is 5.3 % ABV and combines traditional German lager brewing techniques, and some American hop varietals to blend the two cultures in the form of a hoppy lager.

“The partnership between Wild Acre and Kraft Bräu is another wonderful cultural exchange between our two cities,” said Mayor Betsy Price, City of Fort Worth. “The beer collaboration is an opportunity to learn from each other, promote global economic development, and build a platform for businesses to think globally. That’s what it’s all about – creating connections and expanding Fort Worth’s international profile.”

Wild Acre Brewing has been invited to participate in the same type of beer collaboration at the 2019 Trier craft beer festival. Organizers hope this will serve as a starting point for more business collaboration between Trier and Fort Worth.

Wild Acre Kraft Haus will be the featured beer in the Tapping of the Kegs ceremony kicking off Fort Wurst, Oktoberfest Fort Worth’s new Corporate Night on September 26. Attendees of the event will have the chance to try the beer exclusively available that evening. Corporations or individuals can purchase a table of eight for a private evening of culture and celebration, complete with a plated German meal from Reata Haus, entertainment, beer and more! To learn more about purchasing a Fort Wurst table, visit www.OktoberfestFW.com.

###

About Oktoberfest Fort Worth: Oktoberfest Fort Worth will take place September 27 – 29 at Panther Island Pavilion in Fort Worth. Festival patrons will enjoy authentic German food, music, dancing, games, rides, biergartens, dachshund races & shopping as well as Spaten and other fall and Oktoberfest craft beers. Fort Wurst is a new corporate night kicking off the festival on September 26. Both events are produced by the Trinity River Vision Authority (TRVA) responsible for the implementation of a public infrastructure project which fosters the development of an urban waterfront neighborhood in Fort Worth called Panther Island. TRVA aims to attract business and entertainment to the district and is in charge of programming public spaces including Panther Island Pavilion.

About Fort Worth Sister Cities International: Fort Worth Sister Cities International, a 501c3 nonprofit, is the only organization dedicated solely to promoting Fort Worth globally and enriching our community through international education, exchange and commerce. We provide a world of opportunities for our city leaders, citizens, educators, students and businesses alike. Founded in 1985, Fort Worth has eight sister city relationships, and intends to form our ninth in 2019. The relationship with Trier, Germany was formed in 1987 and celebrated our 40th anniversary last year.

About Kraft Bräu: Kraft Bräu was founded in 1998 as the first microbrewery in Trier, five years after the closure of the last brewery in town. Patrick Weirich, the first brewer, started with the three Kraft Bräu classics: lager, dark and wheat beer, focusing on pure handmade craft brewing. In 2010 the Kraft Bräu team started to brew beside the classics seasonal specials like an IPA, different pale ales and bocks. It was CEO Klaus Tonkaboni and Sebastian Nguyen, head brewer and licensed beer sommelier, who started the new and exciting era. In October 2014, Kraft Bräu organized Trier’s first craft beer festival which was a huge success. Kraft Bräu has passion for beer and an addiction to real craft brewing.

About Wild Acre Brewing Co.: Wild Acre Brewing Co. opened its doors in June of 2016 to brew and sell the highest quality craft beers available throughout North Texas. Wild Acre has become known for a number of its beers including Billy Jenkins Bock, Texas Blonde and T-Hawk IPA. These beers, among other flavors, can be found in bars, restaurants and retail outlets throughout Dallas/Fort Worth, in addition to being served at their brewery/taproom and beer garden entertainment facility located in the former Ranch Style Beans building situated between East Lancaster and East Vickery on the southeast edge of Downtown Fort Worth. Beer lovers of Fort Worth have helped Wild Acre grow into one of the top 30 largest craft breweries in Texas after two short years in business.

2018-09-13 10:21

Sister Cities and Oktoberfest Fort Worth Introduce “Bier” Collaboration

New initiative hopes to launch more commerce between Trier, Germany and Fort Worth

Fort Worth Sister Cities International, Wild Acre Brewing Co. and sister city Trier, Germany are partnering to introduce the first-ever collaborative “bier” at the Fort Wurst Corporate Night, on September 26 at The Shack on Panther Island. This new festival preview will kick off the fifth annual Oktoberfest Fort Worth. The brewmaster from Trier-based Kraft Bräu brewery will be part of the team to tap the keg of the collaborative beer called Wild Acre Kraft Haus Lager.

The project is an effort to encourage and grow business exchange opportunities between Trier and Fort Worth. With the craft beer industry growing in both regions, Christian Luxem, director of Trier City Council’s Business Development came up with the idea of the “Bier project” a craft beer collaboration that could provide an opportunity for international idea and product exchange.

“Such a project can contribute to promote the bilateral economical relations between the two cities,” says Luxem.

The recipe for Wild Acre Kraft Haus was developed by Kraft Bräu brewery and brewed by Wild Acre in Fort Worth. The two brewmasters stayed in constant contact to ensure the beer was brewed in Fort Worth, but stayed true to the German taste and standards. The beer is 5.3 % ABV and combines traditional German lager brewing techniques, and some American hop varietals to blend the two cultures in the form of a hoppy lager.

“The partnership between Wild Acre and Kraft Bräu is another wonderful cultural exchange between our two cities,” said Mayor Betsy Price, City of Fort Worth. “The beer collaboration is an opportunity to learn from each other, promote global economic development, and build a platform for businesses to think globally. That’s what it’s all about – creating connections and expanding Fort Worth’s international profile.”

Wild Acre Brewing has been invited to participate in the same type of beer collaboration at the 2019 Trier craft beer festival. Organizers hope this will serve as a starting point for more business collaboration between Trier and Fort Worth.

Wild Acre Kraft Haus will be the featured beer in the Tapping of the Kegs ceremony kicking off Fort Wurst, Oktoberfest Fort Worth’s new Corporate Night on September 26. Attendees of the event will have the chance to try the beer exclusively available that evening. Corporations or individuals can purchase a table of eight for a private evening of culture and celebration, complete with a plated German meal from Reata Haus, entertainment, beer and more! To learn more about purchasing a Fort Wurst table, visit www.OktoberfestFW.com.

###

About Oktoberfest Fort Worth: Oktoberfest Fort Worth will take place September 27 – 29 at Panther Island Pavilion in Fort Worth. Festival patrons will enjoy authentic German food, music, dancing, games, rides, biergartens, dachshund races & shopping as well as Spaten and other fall and Oktoberfest craft beers. Fort Wurst is a new corporate night kicking off the festival on September 26. Both events are produced by the Trinity River Vision Authority (TRVA) responsible for the implementation of a public infrastructure project which fosters the development of an urban waterfront neighborhood in Fort Worth called Panther Island. TRVA aims to attract business and entertainment to the district and is in charge of programming public spaces including Panther Island Pavilion.

About Fort Worth Sister Cities International: Fort Worth Sister Cities International, a 501c3 nonprofit, is the only organization dedicated solely to promoting Fort Worth globally and enriching our community through international education, exchange and commerce. We provide a world of opportunities for our city leaders, citizens, educators, students and businesses alike. Founded in 1985, Fort Worth has eight sister city relationships, and intends to form our ninth in 2019. The relationship with Trier, Germany was formed in 1987 and celebrated our 40th anniversary last year.

About Kraft Bräu: Kraft Bräu was founded in 1998 as the first microbrewery in Trier, five years after the closure of the last brewery in town. Patrick Weirich, the first brewer, started with the three Kraft Bräu classics: lager, dark and wheat beer, focusing on pure handmade craft brewing. In 2010 the Kraft Bräu team started to brew beside the classics seasonal specials like an IPA, different pale ales and bocks. It was CEO Klaus Tonkaboni and Sebastian Nguyen, head brewer and licensed beer sommelier, who started the new and exciting era. In October 2014, Kraft Bräu organized Trier’s first craft beer festival which was a huge success. Kraft Bräu has passion for beer and an addiction to real craft brewing.

About Wild Acre Brewing Co.: Wild Acre Brewing Co. opened its doors in June of 2016 to brew and sell the highest quality craft beers available throughout North Texas. Wild Acre has become known for a number of its beers including Billy Jenkins Bock, Texas Blonde and T-Hawk IPA. These beers, among other flavors, can be found in bars, restaurants and retail outlets throughout Dallas/Fort Worth, in addition to being served at their brewery/taproom and beer garden entertainment facility located in the former Ranch Style Beans building situated between East Lancaster and East Vickery on the southeast edge of Downtown Fort Worth. Beer lovers of Fort Worth have helped Wild Acre grow into one of the top 30 largest craft breweries in Texas after two short years in business.

Sister Cities Seeking Full-Time Seasonal Position

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

Photos with Santa in Sundance Square Plaza

Job Title: Sundance Square Santa Program Manager

Job Type: Seasonal Full-Time

November 1 – December 24, 2018

BASIC FUNCTION: Responsible for managing the day to day operation of Sundance Santa

JOB SPECIFICATIONS: High school education or equivalent is required. Must have project management experience and possess the ability to meet deadlines. Must work well under pressure. Good organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills are required.

SUPERVISORY DIMENSIONS: Volunteers

EXTERNAL CONTACTS: General public and Sundance Square customers

INTERNAL CONTACTS: Daily contact with Fort Worth Sister Cities International staff and volunteers & Sundance Square staff

RESPONSIBILITIES & ROUTINE DUTIES:

  • Oversee day to day Sundance Santa processes at the set in Sundance Square Plaza
  • Be on set full-time to set up and coordinate while Santa is open
  • Trains, tracks & manages volunteers
  • Manages the schedule through the electronic line system (QLess)
  • Assists with customer relations and answers questions
  • Serves as primary point of contact between QLess and Sundance Square Santa matters
  • Contacts QLess Customer Service in case of issues with electronic line, seeks quick resolution and tracks progress
  • Provides regular review of daily interactions with customers and maintains copies of communication with QLess for recordkeeping and recognizing opportunities for improvement.
  • Manages customer expectations and interacts with customers.
  • Be available to work November 16 & 17 and then Wednesday – Sunday from Thanksgiving to Christmas.

DESIRED SKILLS & EXPERTISE

  • Energetic, outgoing, customer-oriented personality
  • Ability to engage customers in a courteous, helpful, and respectful manner
  • Able to learn and adapt to current technology needs and communicate changes with others
  • Proficiency with Apple products (iPad), familiarity with using apps and basic computer skills
  • Able to think quickly on the spot to answer customer questions
  • Physical demands include: standing for prolonged periods of time, outdoors
  • Spanish is a plus
  • Exercise flexibility and patience in difficult situations
  • Composure and ability to handle stress
  • Ability to multitask, provide attention to detail and proactively solve problems
  • Basic mathematical skills
  • Act in a manner of integrity that shows support for Fort Worth Sister Cities International & Sundance Square, its values and employees, while meeting customer expectations

COMPENSATION: $15/hour with time and a half for hours over 40 each week

EXPERIENCE: 3+ years Client Services Coordination or retail shop management

If interested, send resume and cover letter to katie@fwsistercities.org.

2018-08-31 11:14

Sister Cities Seeking Full-Time Seasonal Position

Photos with Santa in Sundance Square Plaza

Job Title: Sundance Square Santa Program Manager

Job Type: Seasonal Full-Time

November 1 – December 24, 2018

BASIC FUNCTION: Responsible for managing the day to day operation of Sundance Santa

JOB SPECIFICATIONS: High school education or equivalent is required. Must have project management experience and possess the ability to meet deadlines. Must work well under pressure. Good organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills are required.

SUPERVISORY DIMENSIONS: Volunteers

EXTERNAL CONTACTS: General public and Sundance Square customers

INTERNAL CONTACTS: Daily contact with Fort Worth Sister Cities International staff and volunteers & Sundance Square staff

RESPONSIBILITIES & ROUTINE DUTIES:

  • Oversee day to day Sundance Santa processes at the set in Sundance Square Plaza
  • Be on set full-time to set up and coordinate while Santa is open
  • Trains, tracks & manages volunteers
  • Manages the schedule through the electronic line system (QLess)
  • Assists with customer relations and answers questions
  • Serves as primary point of contact between QLess and Sundance Square Santa matters
  • Contacts QLess Customer Service in case of issues with electronic line, seeks quick resolution and tracks progress
  • Provides regular review of daily interactions with customers and maintains copies of communication with QLess for recordkeeping and recognizing opportunities for improvement.
  • Manages customer expectations and interacts with customers.
  • Be available to work November 16 & 17 and then Wednesday – Sunday from Thanksgiving to Christmas.

DESIRED SKILLS & EXPERTISE

  • Energetic, outgoing, customer-oriented personality
  • Ability to engage customers in a courteous, helpful, and respectful manner
  • Able to learn and adapt to current technology needs and communicate changes with others
  • Proficiency with Apple products (iPad), familiarity with using apps and basic computer skills
  • Able to think quickly on the spot to answer customer questions
  • Physical demands include: standing for prolonged periods of time, outdoors
  • Spanish is a plus
  • Exercise flexibility and patience in difficult situations
  • Composure and ability to handle stress
  • Ability to multitask, provide attention to detail and proactively solve problems
  • Basic mathematical skills
  • Act in a manner of integrity that shows support for Fort Worth Sister Cities International & Sundance Square, its values and employees, while meeting customer expectations

COMPENSATION: $15/hour with time and a half for hours over 40 each week

EXPERIENCE: 3+ years Client Services Coordination or retail shop management

If interested, send resume and cover letter to katie@fwsistercities.org.

Humility & Respect

Posted on by Fort Worth Sister Cities

Editorial by President/CEO Mae Ferguson

Featured in Rotary Club of Fort Worth newsletter

Mae

Imagine that you have a crucial building project that will vastly change things for the better and your boss has assigned a partner to assist you. This partner has strengths that will compliment your areas of expertise and vice versa, but there is a problem; you only understand how to create triangles and your partner only understands how to create circles. How would you proceed? How would you find a common language so that you could achieve your goal?

As unlikely as this scenario might seem, it is not so different from attempting to conduct business with those in other countries. Often businesses, civic groups, religious institutions and even charities face challenges when working with people from different cultures. The most obvious barrier is language, but in many ways that barrier is the easiest to overcome.

There are often more important nuances to consider, such as: how do they like to be greeted, what conversational topics are taboo, what is customary in terms of giving gifts, what are their dining preferences, what is their viewpoint on doing business with women, what are their religious customs, what are their expectations on attire, what are their business customs, do they shake hands, bow or kiss?

Does conducting international business or traveling for leisure now seem more daunting when you are facing those questions? Technology has made it easier to conduct business worldwide. Companies sell to clients all over the world and dealing with different cultures can be tricky. But, it need not be.

Protocol training provides tools to help navigate these waters by respectfully considering these cultural nuances and familiarizing others to work within them. Training is needed for companies, civic groups, churches, individuals, and non-profit organizations to make international business and leisure travel easier and more engaging and successful.

In order to host international visitors and provide the best possible experience for their guests, companies will focus on specific nuances of different cultures for their training such as proper pronunciations, conversational topics, dining etiquette, potential pitfalls, how to make introductions properly, how to greet properly, the importance of punctuality and receiving and reading business cards.

As a certified protocol officer, I regularly consult with various groups to discover needs, goals and intent. Protocol trainings are customizable and tailored to the needs of any company, group, individual or organization all with a desired outcome of – mutual understanding and respect of other cultures and good international relations for all.

A quote I regularly use during trainings comes from Dorothea Johnson, who is the founder of the Protocol School of Washington who says, “The soul of politeness is not a question of rules but tranquility, humility and simplicity.”

In essence, the heart of protocol is caring enough to go the extra mile to ensure that you are presenting yourself, your company, your city or country respectfully, and it goes beyond that. It is caring enough to be open to receive the beauty that other cultures are waiting to share with you. When viewed through that lens, protocol becomes so much more than a set of rules or code of conduct. It truly is the Rosetta Stone that unlocks the power of international relations.

2018-08-21 10:16

Humility & Respect

Editorial by President/CEO Mae Ferguson

Featured in Rotary Club of Fort Worth newsletter

Mae

Imagine that you have a crucial building project that will vastly change things for the better and your boss has assigned a partner to assist you. This partner has strengths that will compliment your areas of expertise and vice versa, but there is a problem; you only understand how to create triangles and your partner only understands how to create circles. How would you proceed? How would you find a common language so that you could achieve your goal?

As unlikely as this scenario might seem, it is not so different from attempting to conduct business with those in other countries. Often businesses, civic groups, religious institutions and even charities face challenges when working with people from different cultures. The most obvious barrier is language, but in many ways that barrier is the easiest to overcome.

There are often more important nuances to consider, such as: how do they like to be greeted, what conversational topics are taboo, what is customary in terms of giving gifts, what are their dining preferences, what is their viewpoint on doing business with women, what are their religious customs, what are their expectations on attire, what are their business customs, do they shake hands, bow or kiss?

Does conducting international business or traveling for leisure now seem more daunting when you are facing those questions? Technology has made it easier to conduct business worldwide. Companies sell to clients all over the world and dealing with different cultures can be tricky. But, it need not be.

Protocol training provides tools to help navigate these waters by respectfully considering these cultural nuances and familiarizing others to work within them. Training is needed for companies, civic groups, churches, individuals, and non-profit organizations to make international business and leisure travel easier and more engaging and successful.

In order to host international visitors and provide the best possible experience for their guests, companies will focus on specific nuances of different cultures for their training such as proper pronunciations, conversational topics, dining etiquette, potential pitfalls, how to make introductions properly, how to greet properly, the importance of punctuality and receiving and reading business cards.

As a certified protocol officer, I regularly consult with various groups to discover needs, goals and intent. Protocol trainings are customizable and tailored to the needs of any company, group, individual or organization all with a desired outcome of – mutual understanding and respect of other cultures and good international relations for all.

A quote I regularly use during trainings comes from Dorothea Johnson, who is the founder of the Protocol School of Washington who says, “The soul of politeness is not a question of rules but tranquility, humility and simplicity.”

In essence, the heart of protocol is caring enough to go the extra mile to ensure that you are presenting yourself, your company, your city or country respectfully, and it goes beyond that. It is caring enough to be open to receive the beauty that other cultures are waiting to share with you. When viewed through that lens, protocol becomes so much more than a set of rules or code of conduct. It truly is the Rosetta Stone that unlocks the power of international relations.