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PRO

The men’s World Cup has awakened the dreamer in me again.

As I stated in this newspaper’s June 26 issue, I’ve been touched by the outpouring of love international soccer fans are showing for America while visiting here for the World Cup. I want to see the lovefest continue after the championship game on July 18. One way to do so is through sister city relationships.

Alas, Excelsior Springs and Richmond don’t have sister cities, as was confirmed to me via email this week by Melinda Mehaffy, Excelsior Springs city administrator; and Tonya Willim, Richmond city administrator. I’m guessing the same is true for other area towns, like Orrick and Hardin.

Thus, to continue advancing international goodwill and pursue some potential thrilling sports-related opportunities, I’m challenging to area leaders to work to establish sister cities.

Because athletic competitions can help sister cities develop relationships, as the Sister Cities International website suggests, I’ve begun dreaming of ways o…