Three of the RYLA attendees from Sedona Red Rock High shared their camp experiences.  Kaori Emerson, Arabella Licher, and Kaitlyn Otterlee excitedly described the numerous activities offered.  With a slide show of fun photos and videos from their dance-off, their enthusiasm was palpable.  All three continued to circle back to the relationships they developed, the confidence they gained, and the fun they had.  Arabella referenced how RYLA boosted her confidence when she went for her AP course oral examination.  Kaori admitted that her concerns about becoming an exchange student next year were affirmed and relieved by meeting current exchange students.  They all expressed their gratitude for this incredible opportunity.

Angela Emerson was inducted into the club, the fourth new member of the year!  Angela is an American Sign Language interpreter.  With her children benefiting from Rotary's youth services, she is excited to give back to her community.  She has already jumped in with both feet!  Angela will host next year while her daughter, Kaori, goes abroad in the youth exchange program.  Welcome Angela!

The club celebrated the success of the Reunite Cultures Fund visit to Sedona.  The Armenian Troupe performed for over 500 students and 200 adults during their stay.  Sedona Red Rock High School World History teacher, Chris Ames, said, "It was wonderful for our students to meet artists their own age traveling the world to perform traditional dances and music... [We] just completed...[learning] about Armenia being the first nation to officially embrace Christianity...the material...fit perfectly."  West Sedona principal, Elizabeth Tavasci, said, "The kiddos LOVED being able to dance with the dancers."  The event was probably best summed up by Zane Dickey, Verde Valley School's Assistant Director for Admissions, when he wrote, "...well done on an amazing cultural event to bring our community together."

Carol and Jeff, Chuck, Jennette and David, Tracey, Bob, and Russ all stepped up to host the group.  They unanimously agreed that it was a wonderful experience to have them in their homes.  Thank you to the members who provided food for the potluck.  Winnie was awarded the Above and Beyond award pin for her dedication and persistence in making this event successful and professional.  The troupe specifically thanked her for showing them how to "up their game."  Jennette, having already been awarded the Above and Beyond pin, received the Spirit of Service award. Jennette devoted her endless energy to making the troupe feel at home while giving as many students and community members the opportunity to appreciate this cultural exchange.