What?

I am sure some of you are wondering why the Florida Wildlife Federation has set up a blog about a trip the Netherlands. Well as some of you may know I am a Rotarian in the St Augustine Sunrise club. Part of Rotary Internationals efforts to promote goodwill peace and understanding is to host group study exchanges across the world. My Rotary area, District 6970, is hosting an exchange with the Netherlands. Of uniqueness to this exchange is the vocational emphasis. This exchange focuses on urban and regional planning, so the whole team consists of professionals in community planning, environmental planning and law enforcement.


I was selected, after an intense interview process, as the Team Leader. Even though I am one of the youngest I have the opportunity to support and coordinate a wonderful experience for the 4 chosen team members.













The Rotarian team leader is Sarah Owen Gledhill from the St. Augustine Sunrise Club. She is a Planning Advocate for the Florida Wildlife Federation. The non-Rotarians team members are: Terri Mashour, Land Resources Planner for St. Johns River Water Management District, sponsored by the St. Augustine Sunrise Club; Sean McLendon, Sustainability Program Manager for Alachua County Board of Commissioners, sponsored by the Gainesville Club; Jason Shaw, Sergeant with the Palatka Police Department and coordinator of the Weed and Seed Program, sponsored by the Palatka Club; and Dr. Shane Williams, Stormwater Project Manager for Marion County, sponsored by the Ocala Southwest Club.


We fly out of Jacksonville May 16 to embark upon a month of experiencing an amazing culture while examining urbanization, water policy, alternative energy sources and adaptation to sea level rise. This blog will report upon my vocational exchange so that I may catalog my experience and new found knowledge. I will also add the fun cultural experiences for you to enjoy. My posts may not be every day since we will be traveling and reaching Internet access is not a 100% guarantee. I hope you enjoy my adventures through the Netherlands and feel free to post comments or write me any questions you may have about Dutch policies.



Tot Ziens, Sarah