At the Aug 29 Rotary Luncheon, Rotarian Norm Kelly completed his report on his trip to Europe and attendance at the RI Convention in Hamburg, Germany. The Convention badge was recognized for free transportation around the city. There were approximately 26,500 people in attendance. .JPG)
Rotarian Norm Kelly
Hamburg was wiped out in the war and this is mostly a new city. The Conference was on the waterfront with the Endo Polio Flag flying in the harbor. There was a 2.3 mile walking tunnel under the harbor. He and Marcia visited the beautiful Botanical Gardens.
The RI Convention was split over several buildings. Pres. Ian Riseley brought Rotaract into RI. Toastmasters and Rotary have now combined and will teach public speaking to clubs.
This year they are really trying to end polio finally, so everyone marched with their polio t-shirts for 5 miles thru the city. $50 million has been raised with a $100 million match from the Gates Foundation.
Lots of heart-warming stories were told at the meeting about people who were helped by Rotary or offered help to others. Every speech is on the RI website under the Convention heading if anyone wants to listen to some of the outstanding speakers.
Rotarian Norm Kelly