Rotary
An exciting itinerary is planned for 13 Kansans, including Sue Maes & Dennis Hemmendinger from Manhattan are headed to South Africa for what is known as a Rotary Friendship Exchange (RFE). Participants represent nine Rotary clubs throughout northeast Kansas.
Under the leadership of District 5710 Governor Adam Ehlert and District 9350 Governor Lynette Stassen, a robust schedule awaits the travelers who will stay with Rotary host families during their 13-day tour. While there the group will engage in community service projects, cultural events, socials and site-seeing.
The visit starts in Cape Town and includes stops in Tulbagh, Swellendam, Gondwana and Montagu. The visitors will enjoy a range of activities including, visits to a winery, hot mineral springs, tree planting, forest hiking and up-close wildlife viewing.
Rotary International literature states, “exchanges offer unique chances for cultural immersion and interchange. They might include opportunities for professionals, including young professionals, to build global understanding and boost vocational and leadership skills. They can provide cultural experiences, vocational activities, fellowship, and much more.”
While in South Africa, the group will finalize plans for a reciprocal visit to Kansas by the South Africans in Spring of 2019.
In addition, to the Hemmendinger and Maes, others from Kansas on the trip include Chuck Udell, Leawood Rotary; Lenet & Bob Compton, Lenexa; Todd Frey, Marysville; Bill & Kathy Musgrave, Lenexa; Andea Norris & Tom Beisecker, Lawrence Richard Ross, Topeka; Clayton Smith, Overland Park and Wilma Cox, Olathe.