2011 RI Convention Prospective from President Dick
The 102nd Rotary International Convention, at the Ernest Morial Convention Center in New Orleans, State of Louisiana, USA just concluded this week. The convention’s theme was “Let the Good Times Roll … Again!”. I am certain that Rotary’s brand of service and fellowship made every convention attendant a life-enriching, life-changing and life-fulfilling experience, not only for the Rotarians but even to the guests and family members in attendance.
The convention started with an Interfaith Service on May 21 followed by the formal opening through the Plenary Session headed by RI Convention Chair Ron Burton. There were more than 20,000 Rotarians, spouses and guests who witnessed the parade of flags from all participating countries by the South Central Rotary Youth Exchange. All past RI presidents, including the first and only Philippine RI President, Mat Caparas, were introduced followed by the Opening Address of the current RI President Ray Klinginsmith.
The Family of Friendship was packed everyday. There was a lot to see, learn and opportunities to meet fellow Rotarians, family and guests. Workshops were also offered for the rest of the convention to all Rotarians, who wanted to take advantage of the classes.
At the opening ceremony Veronica and I and our PP, NID Representative and Club Secretary Michelle Caretto with PEN Liz Weeth of Rotary Club of Cayucos met President Elect Nominee Edwin Velarde of Westlake Village, California District 5240 and his wife Cristina. We were all seated in the same row in Section 307. Later in the convention, we attended both Parties for our District Governor Elect Wade Namura and District Governor’s Birthday Party of Deepa Willingham.
The second day, I attended the Asian Breakfast with the help of Global President Carlos Yturzaeta, of Rotary Club of Makati-EDSA where some
Past RI Presidents were also invited. I talked briefly and had a photo with Past RI President Mat Caparas. I met a lot of Global Presidents, Past
Presidents, Past District Governors and Governors at the luncheon. I enjoyed their program presentation with music and dances.
On the 24th, Bill Gates was the speaker of Plenary Session 3. Going the Distance on Polio: What It Will Take to Get Rid of the Last 1% was his topic of that day. He is a very inspiring man and challenged everyone to get rid of polio completely this year.
This was a wonderful experience on my second time attending an RI Convention since I joined Rotary in 2005. The first was in Montreal, Canada last year. The experiences gained from these conventions have brought good memories that will last for a lifetime.
Service Above Self,
Rodolfo "Dick" Pacaoan
Rotary Club of Los Osos, President 2010-2011