One of the primary topics was the cultural exchange program, which aims to foster international understanding and cooperation. The commission reviewed one application for the program and decided to form a subcommittee to meet in early January, ahead of the January commission meeting, to expedite the interview and recommendation process. Martha Baly, a recurring applicant, was acknowledged as a strong candidate. In parallel, the commission addressed the arrival of an inbound participant from a sister city, deliberating on promotional strategies, including an article in a local lifestyle magazine. The article’s emphasis will be on the application process and program history, with Travis Rosnow assigned to write it. Members discussed ensuring clarity and conciseness in the content to optimize community engagement and participation.

In a related effort to strengthen cultural ties, the commission considered reviving the German language day camp for youth, which had been dormant for several years. A subcommittee, including Carolyn and Ellie Sweeney, is exploring the feasibility of this initiative, potentially involving instructors from local educational institutions and a participant from Tübingen. The commission emphasized flexibility in camp structure and encouraged outreach to identify interested instructors. Details such as duration and budget remain to be finalized.

The commission also addressed the annual recognition award, traditionally presented in January. Led by John Vorkor and Ryan Philson, the subcommittee discussed potential nominees and the possibility of delaying the presentation to February if necessary. The debate included whether to present the award annually and considerations for re-nominating past recipients or recognizing individuals posthumously, such as the family of Keith Roloff. The commission expressed a desire to honor those who have contributed to the Sister Cities program, both locally and internationally.

In administrative matters, the commission elected officers for the upcoming year. Tom Schmidtz was unanimously elected as the chair, with Dixie Booth as vice chair and Ellie Sweeney as secretary. The election process included discussions about eligibility requirements for the chair position, which were resolved with the understanding that any issues would be addressed if they arose. The commission also approved the financial report for November 2024 and made necessary corrections to the previous meeting’s minutes.

Preparations for a feature article in a local journal were another focal point. The commission is gathering information and photographs related to the Sister Cities program, with contributions from members covering events and individuals involved since 2012. The aim is to provide an overview of the program’s impact and activities, and members were encouraged to forward relevant materials to Lisa Pelzel and another member involved in compiling the article.

A new business item highlighted the importance of committee participation. It was proposed to use a form for commissioners to express their committee preferences, covering areas such as advertising, the host exchange committee, the recognition committee, and the German language camp committee. An email will be sent to commissioners to gather these preferences for the next meeting.

Additionally, the meeting included a reminder about open meeting laws and the necessity of maintaining transparency in communications. Members were advised to keep City Administration, represented by Lisa Pelzel, informed about all correspondences to ensure proper record-keeping.