RI Convention, by John Hipes

Rotary International Convention

John Hipes with 2007-2008 RI President, Wilf Wilkinson

I was in Los Angeles from June 14 through June 18 and joined with thousands of Rotarians from around the world for the Rotary International Convention. Karen and I were moved by the many projects displayed from around the world in the enormous House of Friendship hall and by the camaraderie of the many Rotarians we met during our stay.

We saw people from every background wearing native dress, funny hats and lots of pins, and of course, the standard Rotary uniform - the blue blazer. Everyone we met at the hotel, on the street, at the convention and elsewhere were warm and welcoming. People were happy to share a meal, a drink or a cab ride. Rotarians are family where ever you go.

Rotary consists of 1.2 million members who are hard at work eliminating polio, alleviating hunger and thirst, and promoting literacy for people in need around the world. Rotary sustains this effort club by club and member by member. Rotary is a truly great organization and I'm proud that the Alpharetta Rotary Club is doing its part to change lives and make the world a better place.