February is World Understanding Month. The fourth object of Rotary is  "to encourage and foster the advancement of international understanding, goodwill and peace through a world fellowship of business and professional persons united in th ideal of service."  What better way to celebrate World Understanding than by joining the Friendship Exchange team that will be going to South Africa,  in mid-April. 

Image

A Rotary Friendship Exchange  is a cultural exchange, and involves Rotarians and their spouse/partners going to another district, being hosted by local Rotarians, and immersing in the local culture.  In return, South African Rotarians will visit San Diego in October of this year.  The major cost is airfare. There is not much cost beyond that.  The team members will stay in the homes of Rotarians, sight see, look at some projects, and have time to just enjoy the country.  We have room for four more people. Let me know if you would like to hear more about the trip. We will need to complete the team by the end of February. 

Image Image

Thanks to all of you who volunteered for the International Assembly, whether greeting at the airport, driving attendees places, manning the information area, or hosting them for dinner.  It was a warm welcome to people from far, far away, and you did a magnificent job of it.

And finally, on February 23rd, take a moment to recognize Rotary's 110th birthday.