C'MON - LET'S MEET IN ATLANTA

ROTARY INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION - JUNE 10 – JUNE 14
 
WHO WILL BE THERE? - Each year thousands of members of Rotary clubs from around the world meet at our Rotary International Convention in June. They come from large clubs, small clubs, large cities and far-flung villages. These will be members attending their first week to those that have been members for decades, all are welcome and all will find lots to keep themselves in engaged. Certainly there are lots of Club President-elects and Club Presidents participating in this coming together of Rotarians as they carry out their Club leadership role. Oh, did I mention these members will come from around the world? They speak a different language (translations into 26 languages), their clothing may be different and their ethnicity will make for kaleidoscope showing Rotary’s diversity. Guaranteed, every one of these members will share one thing – a passion for Rotary. Attending a Rotary Convention is life-changing!
 
WHY SHOULD I BE THERE?  We are celebrating a huge Rotary event this year! Our Rotary Foundation Centennial, you cannot get much better than that! The Rotary Foundation first endowed amount came as a result of the 1917 RI Convention in Atlanta, GA; RI President Arch Klumph was given some left over; he asked the RI Board to start a foundation to do ‘Doing Good in the World’ using this $26.50. From this humble beginning, and because of our member’s dedication to the premise – today the Rotary Foundation has more than $1B endowed. This year, we come together to continue doing our ‘Doing Good in the World.
 
WHAT HAPPENS AT A RI CONVENTION?  Many attendees at RI Conventions experience a Rotary epiphany, truly having a moment of insight seeing the breadth and depth of Rotary tentacles and are and what understand our role in this mosaic called Rotary. My Rotary epiphany was while at the Birmingham Convention Jane Goodall spoke about the difference a bar of soap can make in the life of person in the villages of many developing countries. It was instantaneous and very memorable.
 
WHAT MIGHT I SEE AND LEARN?  I am telling you the opening ceremonies are worth the price of admission! Rotary at is best! It will be fabulous as we celebrate our Rotary Foundation Centennial; there’ll be lots of pomp and pageantry along with terrific showmanship in the surprises. The keynote speakers are right on target with our theme, Rotary Serving Humanity. I wonder how they will demonstrate our culture during this ceremony. Don’t miss the closing ceremony, I bet there will be maple leaves and Mounties trooped out in all the crimson red and flat brimmed hats. Guess where the next RI Convention will be held?
 
How about spending some time in the House of Friendship? You can spend lots of time there. Lots to learn about what Rotary does in many areas of the world. Or you can shop for lots of unique Rotary wear and also there will be booths that are all about Atlanta. I assure you will enjoy the House of Friendship.
 
ARE THERE BREAK OUT SESSIONS?  You bet! A wide variety some to be expected and some eye opening.
 
OH MY, THE TRAFFIC!   Relax, RI has its own transportation system that will bring you to and from. I am always amazed how they can move 10,000s people in a calm, efficient method. But, they do.
 
IS IT TOO LATE TO REGISTER?  No.  HOW DO I REGISTER?  It is easy. Go to http://RIConvention.org. You need to register for MyRotary it will take you through the process when you click on Registration, it just walks you through step by step. Yes, you will need your credit card.  You can click on Accommodation/Hotels.
 
Bill and I look forward to meeting you in Atlanta!