| FFNEO Journey Coordinator Jackie Herriman |
June 9 to 13 |
FFNEO’s 2014 Inbound Exchange gave us the opportunity to reciprocate hospitality we were given when our members made an Outbound Exchange to Knoxville TN in 2012.
I would like to start this summary by thanking the FFNEO members who participated in any aspect of this exchange but particularly those who gave home hospitality to the Knoxville Ambassadors. Also, a BIG thank you to several of our members for their contributions – including Claire Brugnoletti who led our wonderful Wednesday tour of the Cleveland Museum of Art. Thursday was a busy day in two NEO counties rich with Amish culture. I would like to recognize the tour guiding done by Chuck and Carole Mooney in Geauga County, and by Dave and Mary Boley in Holmes County.
Thank you to the Friendship Force of Knoxville club members, led on this exchange by ED, Ray Simko. FFNEO was grateful to receive the very thoughtful gift of $100 that was presented to us at the Farewell Dinner.
A post-exchange note I received from Jean and Ron Mayer – “Ron and I would like to thank you for the wonderful exchange you provided for us. This was our first trip to your area and we certainly saw many wonderful things. Your club members are warm and friendly, and also great cooks!”
A post-exchange note I received from Karen Setzfand and Ray Simko – “We have heard nothing but positive comments since we returned home. It was also great to see our old friends from FFNEO.”
What did I learn as a first-time Inbound Exchange Director and Home Host? Being involved with an exchange is FUN and VERY REWARDING! I was proud to show off my home region of NE Ohio and was pleasantly reminded by the Knoxville Ambassadors, most of whom were seeing the region for the first time, what treasures and interests we have to offer. The next time you are asked to be involved with an exchange, SAY YES!! You will make lasting friends and memories and experience the values of cultural exchange that are the FRIENDSHIP FORCE mission.
Jackie Herriman, FFNEO Exchange Director
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