From the Editor... A Message from RI Pres. Majiyagbe Bring a Friend... a prospective Rotary Member Member Notes Destination Osaka Rotarians Also Laugh In it for the Long Term

The Japanese are proud of the RI conventions that have been held in their country, and rightfully so. In 1961, Tokyo hosted the first convention held in Asia . It broke all previous attendance records with 23,366 people. In 1978, the convention was again held in Tokyo , drawing 39,834 people - a record that still stands today.

The Osaka Rotarians are looking forward to breaking the 40,000 mark. They hope it will be the largest convention in history, on the eve of Rotary's centennial. "We want to share our hospitality and culture with the world," say Past RI Director Genshitsu Sen, chairman of the 2004 Osaka Convention Committee. "This is an exciting time for Rotary as we prepare for Rotary's 100th anniversary and celebrate the achievements of President Jonathan Majiyagbe's year."

In this issue, we introduce you to the host city of Osaka , a major commercial center, international port, and Japan 's second-largest metropolitan area. Osaka is an ideal setting for the 95th RI Convention (23-26 May 2004) with its state-of-the-art convention facilities, world-class hotels, and sophisticated transportation system, much of it on the city's waterways. First-time visitors will be impressed by Osaka 's bustling harbor, vibrant nightlife, mesmerizing neon lights, and one of the most extensive networks of underground shopping arcades in the world. The large port city represents a blending of the old and new, where visitors can enjoy a cup of green tea in the shadow of a shrine or buy the latest in electronic gadgetry.

We begin our journey with a tour of Osaka 's most popular attractions, from stately Osaka Castle to Universal Studios Japan theme park, the first of its kind outside the United States . For those who have never gone to a convention - or wonder why they should go - we talk to six Rotarians who share their impressions and provide tips on how to get the most out of the experience. We also hear from Past District Governor Masaomi Kondo, chairman of the Host Organization Committee, who offers the latest information on the convention program and fellowship activities.

In upcoming issues, you'll get a taste of Osaka 's cuisine, learn about Japan 's elaborate tea ceremony, take a stroll through the country's top botanical gardens, and experience the ancient allure of the imperial capital of Kyoto , only 30 minutes outside Osaka . As the convention approaches, we'll bring you updates on the program, speakers, special events and Host Organization Committee activities. We will also include practical information on everything from Japanese protocol to the weather.

The Japanese are known for their hospitality, and the Osakans eagerly await your arrival. Whether this is your first convention or 20th, you will come away with renewed passion for service and friendships from around the world. As one convention participant puts it, "Come to Osaka and you will experience the true meaning of Rotary."

Cary Silver