The participant, who had spent time in M, Germany, described her interactions with local residents and the various cultural and educational activities she engaged in during her stay. She recounted a memorable hike through the mountains, enjoying the scenic views and traditional German breakfasts with her host family. These experiences provided her with a unique perspective on daily life in Germany and highlighted the cultural importance of family meals.

In a particularly engaging anecdote, she described playful activities with local children, including a historical-themed game involving smuggling salt, which demonstrated how German culture effectively incorporates learning through play. Her evenings with the host family were cherished moments that deepened her connections with the people she met.

Her narrative included a humorous comparison between the cities of M and its neighboring city, No. She remarked on the architectural charm of M, contrasting it with the more industrial appearance of No, joking, “the only good thing about No is the view of M.” Such observations emphasized the participant’s keen eye for cultural and architectural details.

The Müster church was another focal point of her experiences. She described it as a significant landmark with intricate woodworking that left a lasting impression.

The participant also highlighted the role of the Rotary Club in facilitating her experiences. She attended various events and meals organized by the club, which enriched her understanding of the local culture and fostered meaningful connections with residents. Her interactions with a member of the Optimist Club, who reminisced about hosting visitors from New Ulm, illustrated the enduring ties and friendships formed through the Sister Cities program.

Her internship experience, initially perceived as stagnant, evolved into a rewarding opportunity after she advocated for more engaging activities. She transitioned to visiting local schools, gaining firsthand insight into Germany’s educational system, and noted the challenges faced by teachers working with immigrant students.

The participant shared stories of a traditional festival featuring a parade, the city symbol sparrow, and river jousting, an event recognized by National Geographic. She described the lively atmosphere with visuals of crowded riverbanks and festive floats. An outdoor concert by the Vienna Philharmonic, attended alongside the Rotary Club president and his family, was another cultural highlight that underscored the importance of music and community gatherings.

Reflecting on her travels, she recounted a trip to Lucerne, Switzerland, with her host family’s relatives, and marveled at the beauty of the Swiss landscape. The convenience of train travel in Germany and the pleasant outdoor dining conditions without bugs or humidity added to her positive experiences.

Throughout her presentation, the participant emphasized the kindness and generosity of the people she met, including during a tour of a cement company and a visit to a graduation party at a children’s school, which had been a Catholic monastery. Her experiences were punctuated by expressions of gratitude for the friendships formed and cultural insights gained through her involvement in the Sister Cities program and support from the Rotary Club.

In addition to her personal experiences, the meeting also touched on the Hanzios Cultural Exchange Program, with anticipation for a Zoom meeting with Martha, an outbound participant from the previous year. Martha shared highlights of her time in Germany, emphasizing the significance of relationships formed with her host family, the Yanni family.

Sam Kenopes, another participant, shared updates on his recent activities, including trips to South Dakota and Wyoming, and his work experiences in various departments. He expressed enthusiasm for upcoming events, including a Vikings game and a visit to a World War II Museum. Discussions on the brewing process differences between the United States and Germany provided further cultural insights, as Sam noted the use of additional sugars in American breweries, unlike in Germany.

As the meeting progressed, members discussed the recognition award committee and potential adjustments due to a reduction in commission size. This was followed by announcements seeking candidates for outbound programs and scheduling the next meeting.