In 1975, under the leadership of the late James R. Black, the Rotary Club of Tryon initiated a student exchange program with its sister club in Pirmasens, Germany. Each year the two clubs select and sponsor two students from Polk County and Pirmasens to participate. The host families are the parents of the students and provide opportunities for the visiting students to gain an understanding of the culture and history of each country as part of Rotary’s objective to promote international peace and understanding. Rotarian Petra Harrelson administers the program.At a recent meeting, the students from Polk County and Pirmasens were introduced to the club. For additional information, contact Bill Hillhouse at hillhouse550@windstream.net. Left: Along with Petra Harrelson, they are Johanna Kesseler, Jan Peifer, Olivia Nelson and Matthew Jackson. (photo submitted by Bill Hillhouse)