Biggs Cross Country 2017: Day 17 - June 13

Transportation much better this morning - we were at the convention center in about 5 minutes! The first General Session featured some great speakers. First up was James Quincey, CEO of Coke. He talked about Coke's mission in the world. Atlanta is Coke's birthplace 130 years ago, and is an important part of the City's life.

The next speaker was John Smarge, RI Communications Committee, who talked about some new Public Image initiatives. there are still too many people who don't know about Rotary.

Former US Ambassador and Atlanta Mayor Andrew Young spoke next. He was the best! Almost preaching, his message was that we all live on the same planet and we can get along.

Finally, Jennifer Jones, R.I. V.P. did an interview format with former golf great Jack Nicklaus. He's building golf courses all over the world and getting involved in philanthropy. We didn't know that he's a polio survivor.

After the session, we hiked across the street to the CNN Center to check it out. They have a huge open inside courtyard/food court. We got a sandwich from Arby's and enjoyed a nice conversation with Rotarians from Vancouver, BC. The woman was active with Project Amigo, in which Linda had shown some interest.

From there, we hiked down to the Ferris Wheel for a view of the city and then over to the World of Coke. Its really hot and humid! The area is called Pemberton Park, surrounded by Coke, the Aquarium and the new Civil Rights Museum. After checking things out we hiked on to our hotel. By then we were whipped and soaked!

Dinner tonight at Trader Vic's. Excellent! Also most expensive meal of the trip!!