Rotary in Japan (by Michael)

Our first official Rotary event was attending the meeting of Nihonmatsu Wednesday noon. There were about 30 in attendance. We were introduced and I said a few words, some in Japanese and the rest in English. It was the official visit to the club of District Governor Kosuke Maki, so his speech was the program. He speaks excellent English, and told us he would give his next speech to us in English. He was very businesslike, but you could tell his comments were very heartfelt, particularly when he spoke about the Polio immuni8zation he did in Nigeria. The lunch was traditional Japanese food in a bento box. We were treated very cordially and enjoyed the visit.

On Wednesday night we were hosted by the seven Fukushima clubs at a Welcome Banquet especially in our honor... What an affair! It was held in a very lavish ballroom at a hotel. About 100 Rotarians and spouses attended. After everyone was at their tables promptly at 6 pm, we made a grand entrance to applause and The Battle Hymn of the Republic. We were then seated. The US, Japanese, and Rotary anthems were played. Several Rotary VIPs made comments and then we were formally introduced. Governor Maki then addressed the group, first in English. He said how honored they were to have us and wished us a successful exchange. We then gave our program from the dias. I think were all quite nervous, but we each did very well giving our presentation in Japanese. At least they told us so. I think they appreciated very much our efforts to speak in Japanese.

We then had a seven course dinner with champagne and beer. During the dinner, everyone milled around socializing and periodically return to their table to eat something. After dinner, they all lined up, we waked out of the room as we shook hands with everyone. They were truly sincere, gracious and very generous.

We then went to stay in an unbelievably lavish hot springs spas hotel One of the Rotarians manages it. We each have our own room, with the traditional tatami mats, teak interiors, and paper interior windows. We slept on a futon. Earlier we all went in the hot spring.

We all have having the time of our lives. We are all healthy and active, and it seems we are laughing all the time. It is a very compatible and fun group. We have experienced some serious, traditional Rotary, but also are having a great time. This afternoon we went to an orchard and picked and ate Japanese pears. Delicious. Saturday is a free day, and my first host Rotarian and next host and a third are taking me to play golf. I can’t wait.