Final Preparations and Thanks….

Final Preparations and Thanks….
Bryant Eckert
GSE 2009 Egypt Team Member

In just few days our group consisting of a Team Leader and Five Team Members assembled by Rotary District 7680, will be embarking on a tremendous opportunity to see and experience one of the oldest civilizations the world has ever known – Egypt!

The Group Study Exchange Team Members met for the first time on January 2, 2009 for the Rotary Orientation in High Point. In an action-packed 24 hours, we all found out the monumental task that lay before us: a tremendous amount of preparation and continuous planning is necessary before, during, and after our trip! We all know this is not a vacation but an experience. Since then, I think this group has done a great job of working together to meet and exceed the expectations set forth at the January training seminar.

We have met every other Sunday evening to socialize and learn about the culture of Egypt, the Arabic language, and the Muslim faith, as well as focusing on the many preparations required for our Egyptian Odyssey. On behalf of our group, I’d like to thank all those people that took the time to meet with us and share their past experiences! You all have been very helpful to us and have provided key element and directions to help us prepare. Many thanks!!

At this point, we have our GSE brochures and business cards completed. The “uniforms” are picked out. We have our medical shots and insurances updated. We’ve created a wish list of things we hope to see and do. Our PowerPoint presentations on our respective vocations and individual assignments ranging from business to culture in the Charlotte region are completed - we will present these to several Rotary Clubs in Cairo, Alexandria and other Egyptian cities.

All we need to do now is pack and set foot on that plane… I can only imagine what the sights will be like and how the people will be! What will a pyramid really look like that doesn’t have a casino in it? All are still visions for now…
I know our team from Charlotte is assembled with remarkably talented individuals that are different in so many ways. But we all share the common goal to go to Egypt for a rewarding and memorable experience. I’m confident in the end that everyone on this team will help spread the goodwill of all Americans.

Thank you, John Martin, for your guidance in helping us prepare for our excursion! Team Leader Bill Burnham has been very instrumental in helping our Team Members get our ducks in a row. Also, many thanks, also, to the many Rotarians of District 7680 who have assisted and supported us. We will make you proud!