President Eisenhower’s Sister City program developed in 1956 has brought years of kindness, peace and prosperity to many underprivileged countries and their people.

As we face troubled times throughout the world evidenced by hostility with neighbors, wars, lack of water and food supplies to children and poverty in our neighborhoods, this program in my opinion becomes a powerful tool to enhance the lives of others who do not enjoy the freedom and quality of life that we have in the United States of America.

In 1996, Times Publisher Alan Cruikshank approached newly elected Mayor Jerry Miles and together they developed this invaluable program that has served the countries of Belgium, Germany, Poland and El Salvador.

We learned recently that Fountain Hills has been designated as the location where the next Sister City State Convention will be held in May of 2016, and we are excited and humbled by the decision.

I have spoken to Governor Ducey and other members of local and state governments regarding this designation and they all have promised to fully support the convention with appropriate recognition and media activities.

I would like to acknowledge the support of previous Mayors Miles, Morgan, Nichols and Schlum for their support in 2011 when 62 Fountain Hills High school students, teachers and chaperones flew to my home country of El Salvador and built 20 houses in the jungles of our Sister City of Ataco.

My wife and I returned from a trip to Ataco recently and were proud once again to see our U.S. flag fly next to El Salvador colors in Fountain Hills Village, which has grown to 26 homes.

Much more can be done, and I respectfully encourage residents of our community, whether part-time or permanent residents, to inquire regarding our program that brings visitors to our restaurants, shops and the realtor community.

Indeed, we can continue to make a difference.