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Doug Vincent of ROTI in Shanghai, China: |
Rob and Doug were welcomed to China by Rotarian Ivan Polacek who
helped coordinate their activities while in Shanghai. |
They were impressed by the modern growth of Shanghai, with all of its
towering high rise apartments and office buildings. They stayed at
this modern Shanghai International Hotel. |
Thanks to Ivan, the Vincents toured the area to see the sites and
learn more about the Chinese culture and tradition. (l to r) Chen Xiao
Min, their driver; Doug and Can Lin (Charles) Ning, who works with
Ivan and acted as guide. |
A marked contrast to the modern area of the city is "Old
Shanghai" with its culture, rich heritage and unique
architecture. In this area one can observe many of the original
traditions and customs of China and its people. |
Bicycles are a popular method of transportation. With the large
population, they seem to be everywhere and often cause traffic jams
and safety concerns for motorists. |
In addition to riding a bike for personal transportation some
individuals have larger "cargo" versions rigged up to
operate as pickup and delivery vehicles. |
Along with the older typical Chinese buildings it is common to see
small waterways and fountain areas with nicely landscaped gardens. |
Bund Avenue, called "the Bund" by the locals, runs along the
Huang Pu (Huang River). A nicely kept walkway and park area provides a
place for recreation and to watch a variety of boats pass by. The
modernistic Oriental Pearl Radio and TV tower is seen in the foggy
background. |
In the park area on "The Bund" is a statue of Shanghai's
mayor Chen Yi, with part of the Shanghai business district shown in
the background. |
As might be expected, there is a military presence in the country but
Doug reported that they felt perfectly safe at all times. |
Frank Yih, a Rotary friend; Doug; Rob and Ivan are seen outside the
residence of Percy Chu, whom they went to visit. |
PP Percy is 102 years old and was a Shanghai Rotarian when they had
Rotary there in his younger days. He is encouraging his expatriate
Rotary friends to re-charter his former club so he can join Rotary
again. Doug presented him greetings and a "Rotary One"
banner from the Evanston headquarters. |
'Expatriate Rotarians and Friends in Shanghai' met to discuss Rotary
ideas and projects over dinner. The group was excited to receive
copies of original documents covering the 1918 RC of Shanghai charter
from Doug, thanks to the Rotary staff in Evanston. |
During the evening, Doug presented an appreciation plaque to Ivan, in
recognition of his work as ROTI list moderator. He also presented a
Rotary 2000 theme banner to Randal Eastman, local Chairman. |
While Rotary is not currently recognized in China by either the local
authorities or Rotary International, members of the group still enjoy
the fellowship and opportunities for service.
The ERAF members are hoping that one-day soon, they will be able to
attend official Rotary meetings. (back row, left to right) Rob
Vincent, David Wang, Ernie Tadla, Frank Yih, Ivan Polacek. (front row,
left to right) Randal Eastman, Doug Vincent and Wing-See Ansley. |
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Click on above logo to see Doug's full trip on the
ROTI Web. |
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