Water Project Celebration in Cappadocia

(Thanks to Craig for this description of the project.)

     Craig Leiser (DG 5960 2010-11) and Kemalettin Erbilgin (DG 2430 2010-11) met in San Diego at DG International Assembly. Potential for joint venture projects were discussed. On arriving home in Turkey, Kemalettin asked DRFC Malik Aviral to initiate a program. The Rotary Club of Cappadocia had one ready to consider in the village of Bozcakoy, Cappadocia:  A water resource project, which was what Craig had asked for. 
     Ultimately, 5 clubs in District 5960, one club in Germany (Ingleheim) and 10 clubs in Turkey contributed $60,250 (including TRF Matching funds for District DDF) to this project. The intent was to replace 12 KM of old and dangerous asbestos reinforced concrete piping (causes mesotheliomia, a variety of cancer) with new high density polyethylene. A village operating committee was also formed to facilitate installation and ongoing operations (added connections for example). Completion has been accomplished and Rotarians and leaders of District 5960 and 2430 were present in the village on June 2, 2012 to see the turn on and community excitement.

Craig and Kemalettin who is sporting the Rotary District 5960 shirt that Craig gave him!

Peeking at some of the new pipe laid beneath this street.

Even the children sence the excitement in the village today.

An "official" picture documenting the occasion.

Out to a local farm for a celebration.  The women were making flatbread in the garage.

Serving the flatbread

With Kemalettin's wife and our Adana Rotaract friend Sude

A real feast to behold!

                                   Ti me to say "Good-bye" and "Thank you" for a wonderful celebration!

View from our bus before the waving began!

I hope their memories are even half as wonderful as ours!!!!
WHAT A  DAY!