Jeanne Moorhead, Vice President

Club members will enjoy presentations by exchange students from Scandinavian countries at their gathering on Sunday, February 19, 2017, at Sun Lakes Country Club. A visiting/cocktail hour with a challenging game will begin at 5:00 p.m. A delicious dinner will be served at 6:00 p.m. At 7:00 p.m., the students will begin educating their audience on the experience of attending school in the Chandler-Gilbert area this year and living with a family who speak a different language than their native tongue. The students may miss their own foods, traditions and activities but learn about new ones. They will also answer questions submitted by the members. Please join us.

The American Field Service Exchange Program, established in 1947, is the oldest exchange program in the states. It was begun by World War II ambulance drivers to promote peace and understanding between countries. At least 20 percent of students who visit the United States with this program are from Scandinavia, according to coordinator Carolyn Hawkins.

We welcome visitors who have an interest in Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Finland, and Iceland. Reservations must be made by Tuesday, February 14. The fee is $15 for members and $20 for visitors. Call Carol Jacobsen at 480-279-6690 to reserve your place for this interesting event.

The next meeting on Sunday, March 19, will include a short business meeting with election of officers. President Jerry Johnson is encouraging members to wear costumes, if they have them, to show their pride in their heritage. We are hoping that several people will bring artifacts from the Scandinavian countries to use as dinner table centerpieces and to display throughout the room and to also share stories about family heirlooms or items they have picked up on their travels.