Rotary File of August 13, 2019

Speaker today was Kate Malkusak, returning Rotary Exchange Student.  She went to Spain for 10 months.She was in Elchhe Ailcante, City of Palmeas.  She had two host families.  She was able to celebrate her 18th Birthday while abroad.

Mrs. Malkusak, Kate Malkusak and Chris Knapp, Chair, District 6000 Foundation

President Seaba called the meeting to order at 7:05 am. 

Rotarian's in the news were:  Dave Parson article on Ancestry and History in the Press Citizens.  Schultz Strings, John and Rebecca Schultz opened  their new location of their business in Marion. Article was in the Gazette. 

The Rotary Club of Denison is wanting to join District 6000.   Hazel said if anyone had any issues with the club joining, they should let her know.  The Rotary of Club Waukee is have a fundraiser on September 7 at Centennial Park.

Carolyn Wanat read an email from Arlene Drack expressing her appreciation and thanks for sending Anya Emerson to RYLA.

Arlene may be interested in joining the club.

Amy Nicholson received her outgoing board member award.  She was director 2016-2019.  She is now President Elect.

President Seaba was proud to present to Roger Christian a Paul Harris +2.  The presentation was all done with Mike O'leary, Club Foundation Chair, and PDG Chris Knapp, District 6000 Foundation Chair.

 Chris Knapp, Roger Christian, Chris Christian, Mike O'Leary

Returning Youth Exchange Student, Kate Malkusak continued her presentation with telling us about all her very interesting trips to Madrid, Camino de Santiago-her favorite during Holy Week, Malaya her Good bye trip. Her parents were able to join her for her graduation. She spoke on some of the differences:  Holidays, Christmas is January 6th. Schools are very different. you take one hugh test to determine your future.  it is very common to take extra classes. Political Views. Family, in Spain they are very family oriented.  The relatives all live in the same town.  If you are not away at college, you live at home until at least 24.

What Kate Learned from being an exchange student.  Being alone. Learning a new language and pushing boundries,  Experiencing very high emotions.  She learned to go with the Flow, take things easier.  You will learn other perspectives.

A great presentation.  Show that Rotary Youth Exchange is alive and well.