Friendship Force

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Pastmast

2005 Open World Exchange

Kay Rockwell & Gloria Dittman - Exchange Directors

n Saturday, October 1, ten Russian guests were welcomed at Eppley Airport by Friendship Force of Lincoln members. With the help of two interpreters, introductions were made, photos taken, and friendships initiated. That evening about 45 hosts, guests, and Friendship Force members gathered at John and Charlotte Leuthje’s home for buffet dinner, music, and introductions. The Russian guests were welcomed with enthusiasm by the Lincoln group.
During the ten-day visit, the group was focused on studying economic development. They toured the Capitol, were greeted and hosted by Nebraska’s First Lady Sally Ganem, and visited with Senator David Landis. They met in sessions with Rich Baier of Nebraska’s Department of Economic Development, Jason Smith of the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, and Darl Naumann of Lincoln’s Economic Development Department. They were awarded honorary citizenship by Mayor Colleen Seng.

For two full days the group, accompanied by hosts and Friendship Force members, toured rural Nebraska to learn about the economy and the people. They visited David City, Ord, Central City, Minden, Hastings, and other Nebraska communities. Their stops included opera houses, an organic farm, retail stores, guest ranches, tourist sites, a telemarketing operation, and a housing manufacturer. They spent an overnight at a Calamus bed and breakfast and rode horseback in the Sandhills. They ate Czech dinners and danced with the Wilber polka dancers.

In addition, the group was able to tour and study the University of Nebraska Food Processing Department, meet with staff and students of the University Modern Languages Department, visit houses in Lincoln’s Parade of Homes, dine at the UNL Athletic Training Table, and tour Memorial Stadium. They visited Henry Doorly Zoo, rode space simulators at the Strategic Air and Space Museum, danced at Coyote Willie’s and The Sidetrack, watched the Huskers vs. Texas Tech, and shopped in Lincoln and at Cabela’s.

The activities ended with a farewell dinner at James Arthur Vineyards. Hosts and guests joined in singing Russian and English songs, danced a chorus line, and shared many expressions of friendship and thanks. The 2005 Open World visit was a success. Sincere thanks to all of you who participated!