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New Generation Service Exchange (nGSE) – Jurnal de călătorie în SUA
This summer, I had the privilege of embarking on an extraordinary journey—one that diverged from the traditional sun-soaked beach vacations and embraced the essence of global fellowship and service through the Rotary International’s Group Study Exchange (GSE) program. My involvement with Rotary began just this May, and the experiences that have unfolded since have been nothing short of magical.
As a new Rotary member, I was thrilled to be part of this summer’s Rotary exchange program, which saw our Ohio team traveling to Romania. The exchange program, designed to foster international understanding and professional development, allowed us to explore diverse communities, meet incredible people, and witness firsthand the impactful work that Rotary does around the world. The adventure spanned across several Ohio cities, each offering unique insights and unforgettable moments.
Dublin-Worthington
We had a great experience already, and this is just day 5 on our exchange in USA-Ohio. Our journey commenced in Dublin-Worthington Rotary Club Dublin-Worthington, where we were greeted with open arms by the Dublin-Worthington Rotary Club. The hospitality and warmth extended to us made it clear that this exchange was about much more than just sightseeing; it was about building lasting connections. In just five days, we immersed ourselves in the local culture, explored the vibrant community, and experienced the generosity of our hosts.

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Whitehall-Bexley
The next few days were packed with enriching activities and memorable experiences in Whitehall-Bexley, Ohio. Our itinerary was designed to provide a comprehensive view of the community, blending education, entertainment, and local culture.
Our adventure in Whitehall-Bexley began with a visit to the local police department, where we gained valuable insights into community safety and emergency services. The dedication of the Bexley Police Department was evident, and it was inspiring to see the impact they have on the local community.
Next, we had the privilege of learning life-saving skills from Lee Nathans, the founder of HEARTsafe Bexley. Lee’s commitment to promoting heart health and emergency preparedness was both informative and empowering. We were introduced to critical techniques that can make a significant difference in emergency situations, reinforcing the importance of preparedness in saving lives.
Following our educational session, we enjoyed a tour of the Ohio Statehouse Museum. This historic landmark offered a fascinating glimpse into Ohio’s political and cultural heritage. The grand architecture and historical exhibits provided a rich context for understanding the state’s legislative history.
The day continued with an exhilarating visit to Huntington Park, the home of the Columbus Clippers. Cheering for the local baseball team amidst the vibrant atmosphere of the stadium was a highlight. The game was a fantastic way to experience American sports culture and enjoy the camaraderie of the local fans.
Our day concluded with a well-deserved dinner at Rubino’s Pizza, where we savored delicious pizza and reflected on the day’s events. The generous hospitality of our hosts, including Jan Zupnick, Linda Zupnick, Carl Holtman, George Soller, and Stephen C. Brubaker, made the day truly memorable.
Day seven began with a more relaxed pace, starting with a visit to the Franklin Park Conservatory. This beautiful garden and conservatory provided a serene escape, allowing us to appreciate the natural beauty and diverse plant species. The tranquil environment was a perfect setting for a morning of leisure and reflection.
Following our time at the conservatory, we explored Easton Town Center, a premier shopping destination. The shopping experience offered a chance to discover local retail stores and enjoy some lighthearted retail therapy.
In the afternoon, we visited the Bexley City School District, where we learned about the educational initiatives and community engagement efforts. The commitment to quality education and student development was evident, and it was inspiring to see the positive impact on the local youth.
We also had the opportunity to learn about EasyIT, a local company specializing in innovative technology solutions. The visit provided valuable insights into the tech industry and its role in shaping modern business practices.
The day wrapped up with a visit to the Bexley Public Library, a hub for community learning and engagement. We then enjoyed a fantastic meal and craft beer at the Columbus Brewing Company, where we had the chance to unwind and savor local flavors.

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Marietta
We transitioned from the Whitehall-Bexley Rotary Club to the Rotary Club of Marietta District 6690 and had our first stop at the iconic Big Muskie Bucket—a colossal bucket from a mining machine that stands as a testament to the area’s industrial heritage. It was an impressive sight that set the stage for our exploration of Marietta.
We then embarked on a quick tour of the city, soaking in the local atmosphere and getting our first glimpse of Marietta’s charm. We were eager to learn more about the city and its Rotary projects during our stay until Sunday.
The next day was dedicated to exploring Marietta’s rich history. Our itinerary included a visit to several historical sites:
- Marietta Mound Cemetery: This historic cemetery offered a poignant look at the area’s past, with its ancient burial mounds and historical significance.
- The Basilica of Saint Mary of the Assumption: A stunning architectural gem, the basilica provided insights into the religious and cultural history of Marietta.
- Crawley and Peoples Mortuary Museum: This unique museum gave us an interesting perspective on local customs and the history of mortuary practices.
- Campus Martius Museum: An engaging museum that highlighted the early settlement of Marietta and its role in American history.
- Quadranaou Park and Sacra Via Park: Beautiful green spaces that showcased Marietta’s commitment to preserving natural beauty alongside its historical treasures.
Lunch at the Town House Bar & Grill was a delightful break, allowing us to enjoy local cuisine and share reflections on the day’s explorations. We also had the opportunity to take our first group photo with the Rotary Club of Marietta District 6690, right after their board meeting.
#day10nGSE was focused on education and innovation. We started with a visit to BB2C Makerspace, where we were amazed by the creative and technical projects taking place. We even had the chance to create our own stained glass art pieces—an experience that allowed us to channel our inner artists under careful guidance.
Lunch at the Historic Lafayette Hotel was a pleasant gathering with our Rotarian friends, providing a chance to discuss and reflect on our experiences so far. The afternoon was filled with educational visits, including:
- The Washington County Career Center: We learned about career-oriented education and training programs.
- Washington State College of Ohio – Marietta, OH: A peek into the academic environment and opportunities available in Marietta.
- Marietta College: Insights into higher education and the impact of the college on the local community.
Our day ended with a relaxing boat trip on the Muskingum River and Ohio River, offering a serene and picturesque view of Marietta from the water. It was a perfect way to unwind and appreciate the natural beauty surrounding the city.
#day11nGSE was centered around industry and community engagement. We began the day with a breakfast meeting with our friends from Marietta Morning Rotary, where we exchanged ideas and insights.
Our industrial exploration included visits to various local and regional development projects. We had the opportunity to discuss these initiatives with Josh Schlicher, Mayor of Marietta, and Commissioner Charlie Schilling, gaining valuable insights into the city’s growth and future plans.
A visit to the Marietta Court House, where we met Judge Mark Kerenyi, provided us with a thorough understanding of the local legal system. Judge Kerenyi’s willingness to answer our questions and explain the intricacies of the judicial process was greatly appreciated.
We then had a well-deserved rest time at the Hotel Lafayette before heading to Zanesville.

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Zanesville
Our trip to Zanesville began with an unexpected and fascinating detour into The Wilds, a unique conservation area dedicated to wildlife research and education. Thanks to the insightful guidance of Andrew Mayle, we learned about the remarkable work being done to preserve endangered species and their habitats. The highlight of our visit was spotting some wildlife with a knack for selfies—an amusing and memorable experience that added a touch of fun to our day.
A special thanks to Molly and Sandy for making our visit to The Wilds unforgettable. We then made our way to Zanesville, where we looked forward to engaging with the Zanesville Rotary Club, Rotary Club of Zanesville Daybreak, and Marietta Morning Rotary in the coming days.
#day13: Art and Culture in Zanesville
Day thirteen was dedicated to exploring the rich artistic culture of Zanesville. Our first stop was 5B’s Embroidery and Screen Print, where co-founder Lee Biles shared his inspiring journey of building a successful business. His story was both motivational and enlightening.
We then embarked on an artistic adventure with visits to:
- The Art Loft: A space showcasing diverse artistic expressions.
- The Elk’s Eye Art Market: An eclectic market featuring local art and crafts.
- Allan Cottrill Sculpture Studio and Museum: An impressive collection of sculptures and artistic works by Allan Cottrill.
Our exploration continued with a visit to Mike and Cathy Styler’s studio and Ron Cole’s captivating Gallery Luminaria. We wrapped up our artistic tour with a shopping break at Gemini’s Eclectic Emporium, where we found unique and charming items.
A heartfelt thank you to Susan Jackson for curating such an enriching artistic tour of Zanesville.
#day14: Community and Vision
Day fourteen was marked by exceptional experiences and community engagement. We started by meeting with our friends from the Zanesville Rotary Club and exploring the Zanesville Welcome Center, where Kelly guided us through the town’s key attractions, including the unique Y Bridge—the only one of its kind in the world.
Our next stop was the County Library, where Stacey and Mayor Donald Mason introduced us to their ambitious rehabilitation project. Mayor Mason’s vision for the library and his leadership left us thoroughly impressed.
#day15: Adventure and Learning
Our final day in Zanesville was packed with adventure and educational experiences. We began with an exhilarating bike ride in Dillon State Park, guided by Scott, whose enthusiasm was infectious.
At Zane State College, Julie and Janice welcomed us warmly. We were impressed by Phil’s presentation on innovations in the Digital Content Media Technology program and Steve’s fascinating anatomy talk. The dedication to empowering people through education was evident and inspiring.
We were fortunate to visit the Budweiser Clydesdales, a memorable experience that allowed us to see these majestic horses up close. After a delicious lunch at Bistro B in the Square, we explored Lucky Find Antiques, discovering unique treasures.
The day concluded with a delightful dinner at The Old Market House Inn and a sweet treat at Tom’s Ice Cream Bowl, capping off a day filled with culinary and cultural delights.
A heartfelt thank you to Stacy Gee Clapper for being an exceptional guide, and to our hosts in Zanesville—John and Jennifer Agin, and Max Factor—for their generous hospitality. Special thanks to Marion for organizing everything to ensure our stay was amazing.

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Circleville











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Reflections on a Magical Summer
This summer’s Rotary exchange program has been a remarkable experience, highlighting the power of international fellowship and community service. The opportunity to explore Ohio, engage with local Rotary clubs, and participate in diverse activities has enriched my understanding of Rotary’s global impact. Each city offered its own unique charm, and the kindness of our hosts made every moment special.
As we prepare for the next leg of our journey, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences, friendships, and insights gained throughout this incredible adventure. The magic of Rotary, as I have come to appreciate, lies not only in the formal projects and initiatives but also in the spontaneous moments of connection and learning that arise when people come together with a shared purpose.
This exchange has reaffirmed my belief in the power of Rotary’s mission to build bridges across cultures and create positive change. From the bustling streets of Dublin-Worthington to the serene landscapes of Circleville, every interaction has underscored the commitment of Rotarians to fostering international goodwill and understanding.
As I look back on this summer, I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to be part of such a transformative experience. The lessons learned, the friendships forged, and the cultural insights gained will undoubtedly continue to inspire and guide me in my future endeavors within Rotary and beyond.
Thank you to all the Rotarians and hosts who made this journey so memorable. Your dedication to the ideals of Rotary and your warm hospitality have left a lasting impression, and I am excited to carry forward the spirit of this exchange into future Rotary initiatives. Here’s to more adventures and the continuing magic of Rotary!