Incoming Exchange from Nashika Riverside, India

Subhash Budgujar, the Nashik Riverside ED, has confirmed Cedar Rapids to be the first week of their club’s visit to the Midwest. We can expect 17 ambassadors, so do please agree to day or dinner host or attend the events of this journey. Let’s all be involved, then send our new friends on to Madison, WI for an excellent second week.

July 2, Saturday: Mid-afternoon arrival at Noelridge Park Greenhouse (approx. 3 pm) and Welcoming Party at Vic and Pat Klopfenstein’s at 5:30 PM. CR/IC club members are encouraged to attend both the arrival and party. Main dish will be provided. Members should bring a potluck side dish or dessert.

July 3, Sunday- Cedar Rapids Day: After a morning with home hosts, the ambassadors will experience home hosted lunches and then tour Cedar Rapids heritage attractions. Dinner will be with hosts and with the option to attend one of several evening Freedom Festival events.

July 4, Monday- Independence Day: Ambassadors will experience a traditional 4th of July day with home hosts and other friends including taking in some of several Freedom Festival activities and topped with experiencing a fireworks display.

July 5, Tuesday- Iowa Farm Day: Ambassadors will tour Stone City and then visit various farm operations in the Monticello area including lunch at Camp Courageous. The day will conclude with a cook out at the farm home of Randy and Debbie Toenjes.

July 6, Wednesday- Iowa City Day: This day will include a visit to Ginsberg Jewelry to view their prize jewelry collection and 3D modeling operation where Ginsberg’s partner with UIHC to solve complex medical cases, a ride on the Cambus to tour of U of I Hospitals and Clinics, a stroll on the U of I Pentacrest, and the afternoon downtown farmer’s market. This evening the Ambassador’s will have the opportunity to take hosts to dinner.

July 7, Thursday- Flexible Day: This day is an opportunity to share a “day in the life” with each ambassador or respond to ambassador’s “wish list”. The day will conclude with a farewell party at Lowe Park Pavilion in Marion catered by L.J.’s. Arrival time is 6:00 PM with dinner at 6:30. CR/IC members are encouraged to attend. Cost is $18 per person.

July 8, Friday- Dubuque Day: Ambassador’s will travel to Dubuque and visit the Mines of Spain and the Mississippi River Museum. After a walk along the river front, a picnic lunch will be provided at Eagle Point Park. The Friendship Force of Madison will meet up with us and will take the ambassadors for a second week in Madison. Those that wish to visit the Mississippi River Museum and attend the picnic lunch need to RSVP and prepay John Giegerich, 410 N Maple St #204, Monticello, Iowa 52310 by June 25. Lunch is $8.00 and Mississippi River Museum is $11.50.

CR/IC Members are encouraged to attend the Noelridge Park arrival and Welcome Party on July 2 and the Farewell Dinner at Lowe Park on July 7. Please, RSVP to Mary Stull by June 29 at 319-393-6254 or email mcdstull@aol.com for the following: Welcome Party – Indicate who will be attending and potluck dish you will be bringing. Farewell Party – Indicate who will be attending. Also, send a check for $18 per person to Mary Stull at 3000 27th St. SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404. If you have and questions or wish to be more involved, please contact Steve Williams or Dale Moore.