By Lucy Halverson

Medicine Creek Lion member Mike Spreger and his wife Carol recently participated in the Lions International Youth Exchange by  hosting two girls, Emma Nurmi and Marjukka Niskanen, both from Finland.

The girls arrived the end  of June and spent 3-weeks in the Springer home.

While in the United States they attended a week long Lions Youth Camp in the Black Hills accompanied by Mike, who served as a chaperon/counselor at the camp.  The girls left Sunday, July 18 to return to their homes in Finland.

For Emma and Marjukka, both age 17, it was their first trip to the United States, but probably not their last as the girls greatly enjoyed their short visit and neither was ready to return home.

“I was surprised; I didn’t realize Mt. Rushmore was in South Dakota,” said Emma, who spoke English clearly.  “For a small state there was much to see.”

Marjukka was surprised by the openness of the scenery, “You can see the horizon,” said Majukka, who is used to the forests of Finland.

Both girls thought the people of Presho and the state were exceptionally friendly and kind. They relished in South Dakota’s warm, sunny weather. They attended Vivian’s 4th of July celebration and thought the community event was like a big family getting together.  Smore’s cooked over an open campfire were a tasty treat they had never experienced but thought were excellent.