Happy International Women's Day from the Lethbridge Twinning Society!
March 8th, 2026
International Women's Day is an annual celebration recognizing the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women around the world. Today we honor the women who strengthen our communities, build bridges between cultures, and inspire future generations.
Join us in celebrating the spirit of connection and empowerment that unites people across cities and countries.
Reflections on Secretary Marco Rubio's Address at the Munich Gathering
February 2026
Following Secretary Marco Rubio's recent address at the Munich gathering, Lethbridge Twinning Society President Harold Pereverseff shared the following reflections:
“I listened once, then again — and yes, even a third time. Secretary Marco Rubio's speech is, I believe, right out of the heart of Sister Cities International. I, like many in attendance at the Munich gathering, wanted to stand and applaud.
He so eloquently defined the world's current posture — economically, politically, and spiritually — and acknowledged the reality of our unique cultural differences. These differences, rather than dividing us, must bring us back to being united and supportive rather than polarized.
He made no excuses for American proactive and necessary actions in protecting its borders and its citizens. As a Canadian, I now better recognize the absolute importance of the stance taken by the Trump administration and only wish that our nation were a more prepared and active ally to the United States, rather than the complacent and dependent one we sometimes appear to be.”
An Evening of Diplomacy and Culture: Celebrating the Emperor of Japan's 66th Birthday
February 20th, 2026 - Calgary, AB
On February 20th we were invited to celebrate the 66th birthday of the Emperor of Japan's birthday. The ceremony was hosted by a Consulate-General of Japan, Calgary, Mr. Takehiko Wajima. There were likely 300 in attendance at the venue, The Calgary Petroleum Club.
Carol Pickett (Lethbridge Twinning Society Director for Towada City, Japan relations), and her husband Garry along with Lethbridge Twinning Society President, Harold Pereverseff and his wife Cheryl also attended. Lethbridge City Council members, Jenn Schmidt-Rempel and Rajko Dodic were in attendance.
The formal proceedings were led by Honourable Salma Lakhani, Lieutenant Governor of Alberta, Honourable Ric McIver, Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of Alberta and Consul-General Takehiko Wajima.
Exquisite Japanese cuisine was served along with Japanese Sake and other beverages.
Calgary's “Midnight Taiko” performed during the evening.
L-R Garry Pickett, Carol Pickett, Cheryl Pereverseff & Harold Pereverseff (Lethbridge Twinning Society)
Honourable Speaker of the House, Government of Alberta, Ric McIver.
Calgary “Midnight Taiko”
Consul-General Takehiko Wajima.
Honourable Salma Lakhani, Lieutenant Governor of Alberta.
Sister Cities International Named Supporting Partner of America250 During Milestone Anniversary Year
December 19th, 2025 - Washington, D.C.
Since 1956, inspired by President Dwight D. Eisenhower's vision of citizen diplomacy,
Sister Cities International (SCI)
has fostered goodwill and municipal partnerships between communities in the United States and cities around the world. Today, those partnerships span more than 140 countries, strengthening global understanding through local connections.
This partnership highlights the enduring importance of people-to-people diplomacy — the founding principle of Sister Cities International — and recognizes the role that local communities play in strengthening international relationships.
For seven decades, SCI has empowered citizen diplomats to build bridges across cultures, promote educational and cultural exchanges, and foster economic and humanitarian cooperation. The America250 collaboration further underscores the organization's mission to connect globally while helping communities thrive locally.
As the nation approaches its semiquincentennial celebration in 2026, Sister Cities International continues to demonstrate that lasting international friendship begins at the community level.
