Rotary International
Convention:
Report to the Club
It was my privilege to
attend the 94th Annual Convention of Rotary
International on behalf of our Club. My attendance was facilitated by the
Club as its President-elect. As such, I wish to memorialize my
participation with this brief report.
The Convention took place in
ever. From May 29 to 31, I participated in the pre-convention program,
specifically the International Institute. The Institute was a very
intensive series of full-day sessions covering every aspect of Rotary
International programs, activities and administration. I had the
opportunity of discussion with both President Rattakul and in-coming
President Majiyagbe and invited our new R.I. President to visit the Club.
Since the time of the Convention, President Majiyagbe lost his wife Ade.
They were unique partners in our Rotary mission. We share the loss of our
invaluable Rotary Companion. I recommend that, at the appropriate time, a
formal invitation of welcome be extended to President Majiyagbe to visit
NY6.
The official opening of the Convention was held on June 1, with a very
moving ceremony, show and speech by President Rattakul. Highlights of the
Convention included the forum for in-coming club presidents and a reception
and luncheon for Presidents-elect. Discussion groups on the R.I. Grant
structures, the new conflict resolution scholarships and health issues and
concerns were important highlights. I participated in a special evening
hosted by former President Frank Devlyn and a host hospitality evening,
featuring a river cruise. After a very brief glimpse at
The Convention represented an invaluable insight into the spirit and
dedication to service of Rotary and Rotarians, as well as a marvelous
opportunity to share fellowship with Rotarians and their families from all
around the world. Despite concerns about SARS, etc., there were some 16,000
of us from some 110 countries in attendance. I want to express my
gratitude
to the Board and to the general membership of the Club for providing me with
this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. It was a time full of memories and
new
friendships. I am confident that this experience will contribute to my
continued service to our Club, to supporting the shared values and
principles of New York Rotary, and to our on-going commitment to the
communities we serve.
Thank you
Greg Lynch
President
The Rotary Club of