The dream is becoming a reality.

Dear Loves,

I hope all is well and that today, tomorrow, and the rest of your lives you find something wonderful to smile about. Edinburgh, makes me smile constantly.

Today, I gave a talk at Edinburgh Breakfast Club, and it was remarkable. The club is a very intimate group of people, about 14, who sit, chat, and discuss Rotary duties while enjoying a nice Scottish breakfast. A unique community.

On this particular morning, there was a German Rotarian, and an American Rotarian who presented the Edinburgh Breakfast Club with a check to contribute to their philanthropic endeavors. Afterwards, the club made the American an honorary member of their club. Rotary in action is so extraordinary to watch.

As I began to chat with the members, I sat next to the president to have breakfast. We shook hands, and began talking about my ambassadorial duties. He then said a few words about himself, and he then randomly admitted how much he loved music. I grasped his hands in admiration; instantly, there was a connection. It's really cool to see esteemed individuals, who are extremely professional, express their love for the arts.

I got up and began my talk and I told my dream about Music and IR. After I was through the president said he was very moved by my idea, and he hopes, too, that it is able to come to fruition. I then sat down, and had a nice, intimate discussion with the Rotarians. They were all interested in my ideas and dreams. One of the Rotarians is a professional drummer, and he mentioned a service project that helps displaced children through music. I cannot believe the possibilities that are available in this city. How cool it would be to promote and create "pockets of peace" through music, while helping those less fortunate. Life is beautiful. Please, help me find the strength to carry out all my dreams. I know there is a reason I'm here to help this human family. I hope you're ready to experience me "Shake the World."

Before I left, another Rotarian gave me a piece of paper and her contact details. She's originally from D.C., but has been living in Edinburgh for years. Anyway, her work is closely related with the EU, and since that is part of my course she noted the possibilities of an internship, which could lead to a job opportunity. Life is wonderful.

On a side Note:

My buddy Jonathan and I began brewing our own beer. We found a nice shop that has all the supplies, and so yesterday we commenced the process. We started with a nice *80 dark ale. I'll keep you updated on how it goes, but the process was really interesting. In a few weeks, I'll be sipping on my own brew. In discussing names, we're thinking something like "Southern Brew" or something affiliated with the South. Because my buddy is from South Africa and y'all know where i'm from.

Life is good, but know I have to study.

I'll keep in touch. Stay classy.

Peace,

William G.A. Cody

Circle of Leaves!

This post coincides with a previous post, where I discuss the beauty of Edinburgh and how the people are so interwoven. I found the old poem, and I've decided to share it with you.

"Circle of Leaves"

Down the path many hooves have stomped

before.

I glide down casually

in awe

of the nature that surrounds me.

The foliage, an eclectic mix,

Vibrantly illuminating the arms where they stand;

Sweet oranges, blood reds, tired withered browns

thickly intermingled with the ones full of

Life.

When the time comes, they let go of their mother's hand

and, drifting reverently,

spin in a lethargic twirl towards the ground below.

At the same time, new babies being formed;

To continue; to create the magnificent

quilt of the forest.

As I gaze intently on the leaves, so different

but

so connected,

I ponder when will we become so harmoniously tied?

With each falling leaf, there is a new life being shaped

and formed

until...

It is time to let go of their mother's hand

and

Drift

Towards the earth below.

I think it's possible.

Everywhere I go, I see signs that this 'music' project could become a reality. I went to a second-hand bookshop and found an assortment of rare books written on various subjects within music. I also went to Edinburgh's national library and stumbled upon a vast selection of documents, books, biographies, and scholarly work all on music.

I think I have found a basis, I just need to find the right angle, or the right note, to attack this work, and allow the melodies to unite us all.

Be good, and stay classy.

I'm gonna Walk!

Good afternoon people,

I think one of the most interesting aspects of this city, is that it is completely and totally a walking city. And, I mean everyone walks. It is cool going to class and to experience a sea of different cultures, races, and creeds all walking so proudly, so determined to make something of themselves. But, I think the coolest people I've seen walking are the elderly. There's one old man I see nearly every morning and he has two canes that he uses to brace himself as he crawls across the street. Watching the sheer determination is quite remarkable. It's also cool watching the elderly women down at Pricness Street with bags upon bags of their recent purchases. It's kind of a "I'll stop moving when i'm dead mentality," and I like that.

The foilage has begun to change and the eccletic mix of colors is quite peaceful. I often catch myself, while walking or trying to study, drifting off into a deep reverie while gazing at the colors so intertwined, so conneted. It reminds me of a poem I wrote while at Reinhardt. It was a Wordsworthian style depicting nature as I saw it. But, it was also a methaphor where I compared the beauty of nature to humanity. In the poem, I note how unique the relationship between plants are and I question when will humans be able to emulate the same respect and cooperation for each other. My poetry teacher thought it was brillant. I thought it would be a long time before I saw "all the peoples harmoniously mixed," but Edinburgh defies the odds. It is a vast melting pot placed upon a tiny dish, and everyone works together to create such a beautiful enviorment.

I just returned from a great walk. The last rays of the afternoon sun were beaming, so I headed to the park to soak it up. Some friends and I were chatting about how cool it is to sit in such a place and just watch the people. There is such range of activities, and so many unique groups juxtaposed to other unique individuals. For example, a group of guys walked up and made a large circle and began to pass the soccer ball around. At the end of the circle, a man was dancing. At first, we wondered if the man was with the group and he was just fooling around. However, we would soon learn that was not the case. The man pulled from his bag large headphones, like the ones from the 80s, and began to find his groove. The dancer was legit. He displayed various spins, twists, and turns; he showed his influences with Jackson like kicks and slides; and, he got with it with a funky break dance routine. When he was done, he put the headphones back in the bag, put on his jacket and hat, and strolled away. His stroll portrayed confidence. He knew he was bad.

This is an interesting place. I hope all is well, and your lives are filled with joy. Peace.

Link Weekend/ International Night at Rotary Club of Portobello

Hello Friends,

I apologize for being so random with my blogs, but nevertheless I'm going to do my best to catch you all up to speed.

This past weekend, was LINK UK 2009. The Link Weekend is a time for all Rotary International Scholars, studying in the UK, to join together and spread and create "pockets of peace." It was a great weekend. After landing in Leicester, England (pronounced Lester) I was picked up by two extraordinarily nice Rotarians, Ian and Pam Inglis. Mrs. Inglis was from Leicester, while Ian was originally from Glasgow. Though it was way past their bed time, I was served a nice meal upon arriving to their home. They had a beautiful home in the English countryside in a small village known as Quorn. I felt instantly at home. After the meal, they both said, "if there is anything you need, this is now your house, so just help yourself." Such amazing people.

As I began to drift off into a deep sleep, I couldn't help but to smile. I was staying in complete strangers' house, but they felt like they could be family. Life is such a wonderful thing.

The following day, we travelled to the highest point in Leicester, known as Beacon Hill. The hill is covered with dozens of docile, sterile English bulls. Check the pictures to see. This time also gave me the opportunity to chat with Ian and I learned that he had lived and travelled all over the world, studying. You see, Ian earned his doctorate in Geology many years ago, and he had had the great opportunity of studying different sediments in remote and exotic regions of the world. I hope my life will turn out like Ian's. I hope that my work takes me all over. The power of travel opens so many doors.

After the hill adventure, I met up with the other scholars and toured Leicester. We were taken to the Town Hall, and the Lord Mayor gave a formal address to all the scholars. It was a very interesting experience. We got to sit in the council chambers, see an original Victorian courtroom, and have a cup of tea with the Lord Mayor in his fancy regalia. I know, Rotary Scholars are important people. Soon, we will be the movers and shakers of the world, so I hope you are all ready for a revolution.

The night at Link consisted of a traditional English dance, yes I partook, and Rotary socializing.

The next morning the Inglis' drove me to the final link event and drove down the main street in Leicester, and interestingly enough the majority of shops were Indian, Asian, Thai, Middle Eastern, and of course English. What is significant is that Leicester has a population of approximately 500,000 people, but it is one of the only cities in the world that doesn't have a distinct ethnic majority. One can see this truth driving down the street. A melting pot of races, cultures, creeds, and backgrounds all living and working side by side in this small English city.

I went to the last Link event, then it was time to say good bye. Ian said that I am more than welcome anytime in Quorn. He also mentioned that his Rotary club throws an annual fundraising Beer Festival in the spring, so I may have to make an adventure back to Quorn to create "Pockets of Peace," and sample some excellent beer. I then walked around Leicester with some other scholars slowly making our way back to the airport. Back to my new home, Edinburgh.

Portobello Night:

So tonight, all the Rotary Scholars in Edinburgh attended the Rotary Club of Portobello's International Night. A very formal, but very relaxed event. Each scholar had to stand in front of the crowd of 80 or so people and introduce themselves, and when I went there was a slight giggle in the crowd. I soon found out that Portobello has a link with Georgia, USA. And, the one's that giggled were Scottish students that studied in Atlanta, Athens, Carrollton, and Savannah. They were so happy to hear the famous Georgian accent, again, and eager to hear about my Georgia.

The most exciting part of the night, however, was when the Scottish-Georgia coordinator was called up to the podium to receive the "Paul Harris Fellowship." For those of you who don't know, Paul Harris founded Rotary, and thus an award in his name is the highest honor that Rotary International presents to the most selfless actors. Before they presented the award, many old Rotarians said they have never witnessed a "Paul Harris Fellowship" award take place. So, I guess you can say I have witnessed Rotary history. Damn.

To surprise the sweet winner, they had the District Gov. from Savannah on the phone to congratulate her for her achievement. I wanted to grab the phone and talk to him, but I think i'll just plan to look him up when, I mean If, I return to the states.

My studies are going great. The large amount of course work is helping the realization that I'm in graduate school.

I hope all is well with y'all. Take time to do something nice for yourselves today, and to relax. Remember, we live but once so let us embrace everyday to the fullest, and never look back.

Peace and Love.

Truly,

William

Pictures

Many people have asked about my pictures. If you will scroll down the left hand side you will find the word "flickr" and just below "Will's Photos!" Move your mouse over until you find the link, click, and you will be redirected to my photo/video gallery.

Thanks, and have a great day.

Peace.

Life is Beautiful.

I can't help but to boast. I am going to have an incredible year. I have been hear 1 week, and already my experience has been memorable.

Last week, some international students and I stumbled into an all night Jazz bar. It was awesome. A funky jazz band that moved the crowd with their beats. Towards the end of the night, a man from South Africa came and began to rip the saxophone. You could feel the passion as he hit each note. Especially, while he battled the guitarist who offered his own beautiful riffs.

Instantly, I was hooked to this city. I cannot believe the experience I have been given. Thank you, mom and dad, for always challenging me. For pushing me, and for allowing me to spread my wings. Thank you, Judge Bailey, because of your determination, I am in Edinburgh. Thank you, Reinhardt Profs., for believing and helping me to believe. Rob, I couldn't ask for a better brother. We have so much to experience together, I look forward to the journey. Emily, I love you. I wish the best for you, and that you and Matthew's days are filled with many blessings.

I hold all of you, plus family and friends, close to my heart. I thank you for the time, the laughs, the arguments, and the memories. You have all helped to make my life beautiful.

This past weekend, I went flying. I joined University of Edinburgh's flying program, and I must say it was one of the best experiences I have ever had. Flying a plane without an engine. You strap into a cockpit, wearing a parachute, and a pulley system throws your glider 1,200 feet in the air. Then, the pilot disengages and your are one with the sky. As we sailed, the sun became rather friendly and began to illuminate the area. The lake below shone a beautiful blue, and the green grass hugging the hillside made me sit and smile. I flew for 45 mins and it was so incredible. I can't wait to do it many, many times. In 40 flights, I can fly solo. How incredible that would be, to get my masters and be a glider pilot all at the same time. Life is beautiful.

Tonight, I went to The Royal Oak. The Oak, is an old pub that is known for folk music. A great girl named, Jess, told me about the place. A group of us ended up going, and the night was spectacular. Whoever wants to play, can. I sat and watched all sorts of people just play their souls. People coming and going, while taking turns jamming. Interestingly enough, the great saxophonist joined the event, and we had a great chat. We started to talk music, life, people, and how incredible we can be if we just accept it. LIfe is a beautiful thing, and we can make the most of the experience, if we choose, or we can let it pass us by. The time at the Royal Oak has pushed to me to keep experiencing. I'm gonna go find a cheap guitar tomorrow just so I can play around. Because I know that if I play with a mix of people only one thing can happen, i'll get better. The final person I spoke to was an old Scottish man, who played a little bit of everything. I told him about my experiences thus far, and how i've just stumbled into incredible music. Since I arrived in Edinburgh, great music has basically been slapping me in the face. And

he said quite inspiringly: you may as well embrace it, we only live once.

I am going to grow in so many ways this year. Thank you, everyone!

A nice day!

Today was a beautiful day in Edinburgh. I woke up, put on my flip-flops, and hit the street. I decided to take a back road, and it just happen to work out in my favor. There was a poster of Hendrix on a window, so I figured I'd check out what this store offered. I walked in and I was instantly blown away.... Within the shop, there is stacks upon stacks of CDs and Vinyls. (Probably over a million). I am a pretty tall guy, but compared to the stacks of music, I felt really short. This place had everything, and the owner was an extremely knowledgeable Scottish hippie, so that was cool. We started to chat, and he confessed his deep sentiment for Georgia and, of course, The Allman Brothers Band. We discussed the explosive stylings of Warren Haynes and Derrick Trucks, and the soulful blues of B.B. King, Buddy Guy, and Muddy Waters. Dougie, the hippie, was an absolute music lover. He told me stories of going all over the U.S. simply to collect vinyls. He has so many that only one person can come into the store at a time because the walkway is so small. He wrapped up our conversation with "Any album you want, I either have, or can get really easily."

As I started to leave the shop I looked down and saw a beautiful sight: STACKS OF LED ZEPPELIN VINYLS.

So family, friends, Rotarians, if there is a rare or great vinyl that you would like to have for Christmas, please let me know.

The rest of the day was great. I went to a Quaker Center that focuses on Peace and Conflict Resolution and they have ties with the Church of Scotland, so I think I might get involved and see what kind of "Pockets of Peace" I can create. Life is a beautiful thing.

Tonight is a pub crawl.

In Edinburgh

My last night in Belfast was good Craic. Fran and I had a nice party in Kelly Cellars, and before the band started, I picked up a guitar and jammed with some old Irish locals. It was cool. I need to find a guitar soon. Before the night ended, I met Benyatt. I knew Benyatt from when I lived in Ireland two years ago. Although we haven't had any communication over the last two years, when we spoke it was like we picked up our conversation where we left it off. He was discussing the issue with the Basque land (his home) and I talked about Georgia. He was excited that Europe has sucked me in, and I am back in the UK for another year.

I also learned that Benyatt may face prison time. You see, the Spanish gov't and the people of Basque Country don't really get along. The struggle lies in Franco's rule and the massacre at Guernica. A group emerged to defend Basque nationalism, ETA; which is very similar to the Irish Republican Army. At the same time there was another group forming in Basque country who believed in opposition, but only through peaceful marches and rallies. As a young adult, Benyatt was an avid member of the peaceful group. And, one day at a rally, he was arrested for sedition. He never struck anyone, he never picked up a weapon, nor did he fight back, but he was forced to serve 10 months in prison. The crazy thing is that was 10 years ago, and now the Spanish gov't is trying to link him and some of his compatriots to bombings and murders, but that's not Benyatt's style. He would much prefer talking someone to death, in Euskera, Spanish, or English, than to take violent measures. Trust me, I know. The first of Oct. Benyatt must face a Spanish trial to plead his case. If convicted, he may serve a maximum of 10 years in prison, or they could ban him forever from his home. A lose-lose situation. I hope it works out in Benyatt's favor. I think the government, and the Basque people, need to forgive and forget the struggle. As Desmond Tutu passionately wrote: "There is no future, without forgiveness," so if evolution is to take place. Everyone, as a collective body, must move forward.

After months of planning, reading, waiting, emailing, more waiting, researching, and planning, I have arrived in Edinburgh. I must say that it is far more beautiful than I remember. My room is like a college dorm room, except I have my own bathroom. And, my view is pretty incredible. When I look out of my window, I can see a beautiful cliff. Soon, I plan to climb it.

I walked around the city yesterday, and I know I picked the right city. It is very humbling to know that Rotary selected me to be an ambassador representing both Georgia and the States. The responsibilities that I have are tremendous, but I know I can do them. I'm excited to meet people, wherever they are from, and learn their views, tastes, and cultures. Travel is a beautiful thing. The best aspect of traveling for me, is it challenges one to grow. There may be time when you are put in precarious situations, or talk with people who completely disagree with what you believe. But, therein lies the beauty. The challenges forces us to open our mind and thing differently, regardless if we agree or not.

Ok. Kind of a random blog, but I guess that's what makes blogging so great. You can type whatever you want to, and it's alright.

Selling Paella´s by the seashore.

After 3 long flights, and a cup of coffe in my lap, I returned to Europe. I landed in Dublin and contacted my great friend de Caste llon, Fran. Fran had started a business in Belfast selling Paella. So, he told me to come to Belfast, and find him at the market. I did, and I was greeted with fresh paella con pollo. Muy Bien.

After the market, we drove around parts of Belfast seeing old friends and meeting new ones. I met one of Fran´s best friends who spècialized in elevations--EL Avion. The three of us sat and spoke on many different issues: life, happiness, peace, success, and all the while casually sipping cafe con leche while a beautiful aroma filled the atmosphere. Simultaneously, light rays began to dance through the window. I looked up and became entranced by the deep, blue sky. I just sat and smiled and thought ¨It´s great to be back!¨

Saturday: I became a paella seller. I travelled with fran to Hillsborough, NI to set up for a market. When we were done, we got in the car and drove to another location to another festival. Upon arrival, we thew together the paella mix and began to serve it up. The only problem, however, was the event was not very well attended. A few locals, but not much. The food that wasn´t sold, we packed up and gave away to the different vendors. So, I guess ¨pockets of peace¨ were created through paella. Awesome. It was an interesting experience. Fran has given me a paella kit, so I think I will prepare sometime in Ednburgh.

It is nice to be back in Belfast, and to see old friends. I am looking forward to going all over Europe and seeing friends from St. Mary´s, many reunions are in store.

I´m not sure what i´m going to do the next week, but it´s no worry. Fran and I may rent a car and drive around Ireland selling Paella and make some cash.

If you are travelling, I hope all is going well and you keep the party going.

Peace.

"Only by the grace of God, go I."

So I have a little story:

I began my visa application over two months ago, and the chaos started. Being a Rotary scholar I selected the application for scholarship applicant, but when I made it to the end of the app. I realized that I had selected the wrong app. I contacted the consulate who would receive my application, and they said that I could attach the required payment and everything would be fine.

So I sent everything in, and I waited. The consulate sent back my documents and informed me that I needed to reapply selecting a general-student application. I didn't really have another choice, so I reapplied. And, I waited.

Two weeks after, I received a package from the consulate. I thought it was my visa, but I was sadly mistaken. The consulate said that I had tried to breech UK immigration laws, and there is a chance that I could be banned for the next 10 years. What? I was flabbergasted. You see, when I applied there was a question that asked "Have you ever been denied a UK visa?" And, I didn't think that I had, so I selected "no."

The consulate deemed that I had lied, and stated that in 2006 I had been given a rejection. However, I never learned of such. In 2006, I applied to study in North Ireland. After sending in my application, I went to work at Y-Camp and my parents took care of my documents. My application was sent back, "pending further documents." So, my parents contacted St. Mary's University in Belfast and they got the documents and I then received my visa. I had never been given a flat refusal, though.

According to the consulate, I had been informed and so they figured I was lying. Also, they found fault with the majority of my supporting documents. I was in a bind. I had the option to appeal the consulate's decision, but the turnaround chance is less than 5% of hundreds of applicants. Or, I could reapply....again.

I began to email and call Judge Bailey (my Rotary rep) about the appropriate course of action. I immediately met with Mr. Bailey and Canton Rotary president, Peter Gleichman, and together we drafted an affidavit to support of my case. I had to contact Rotary International and tell my coordinators that their letter, according to the consulate, was not an official letter. However, RI informed me that I received the same letter as all the other scholars, and the majority had already received their visas. I pressed the issue, however, and RI made me a special with the corporate seal of RI's general secretary.

I also contacted the director of the International and European Politics program at the University of Edinburgh. As part of a new UK immigration law, one must submit a visa letter which basically states that one is a registered student. I had a visa letter, but when I was given the refusal, the consulate kept the visa letter. So, I had to obtain another. The people at the University waisted no time in drafting me a new letter and rush delivering it to me, so that I may have a chance for a visa.

All the while, I was talking with friends and family, and the prayers and support was apparent. I spoke to many different people all of whom were very positive that I would receive my visa. I cannot begin to thank everyone for all the support. From my professors, my friends, my family, other scholars, and Rotarians you all played vital role. Thank You.

I took care of my final supporting document and I reapplied....and, I waited.

I received word today that I have been approved for a UK visa. I leave in one week. I will be stopping by Belfast and seeing some amigos and then crossing the river on my way to Edinburgh.

Although it was a very stressful, I now know that I must, at all costs, live this next year to the fullest. Meet as many people as possible, listen, talk, socialize, and enjoy this extraordinary opportunity to the fullest.

Let us created "Pockets of Peace," and be the change the world wants to see.

Sir Paul McCartney is 67 years old, but he still knows how to rock! The show was wet, intense, crowded, and incredible.

Two Weeks

The time has finally come, and in just two weeks I will be a big step closer to Scotland. Although I thought this time would never come, I must say that the past 9 months have gone by at an extremely fast rate. There were many times and many nice moments I wish I could have put at stand still, but such is life.



I want to thank everyone I have had the opportunity of meeting, getting to know, and getting to know better throughout the year. You all have made the year worth it. Thank you!



I have learned during my time that it takes all sorts of people, of all different backgrounds, to effectively run a business like a hospital. True, the CEOs and management play a role in the daily functions, but without the unending patient care from the medical staff.....no hospital would stand. Working in the Emergency Room has allowed me to see first hand the hard work these people do, day after day, and night after night. Working nights sucks! I truly commend anyone who chooses to work nights for an extended period.



Working nights has allowed me to meet the doctors, the CNAs, and the nurses, all of whom are responsible for implementing excellent patient care. There is no stopping or resting. Even though these people, especially the nurses, have to deal with so much bs, they keep coming and keeping nursing in hopes that someone in need is truly helped. Kudos to y'all.



I have seen some craziness while working at the hospital: death, mentally unstable individuals, traumas, and people who simply don't belong in public. All of these experiences have helped me to really appreciate life's little blessings. I am extremely thankful for who I am, what I have been given, and where I am going.



I have also had some great laughs and conversations with the wonderful people i've had the distinct opportunity of working with. Wherever the future takes me, please note that I will always remember you and the wonderful times we've had together. I hope I have the opportunity to see you all again in the near future.



PS: to any of you who aren't completely happy with what your doing. CHANGE. You have but one life, and there is no reason why you can't enjoy it! I challenge each and everyone of you to pursue any aspirations that you have. Shake things up! When I get my International business off the ground, i'll be sure to give you a call if you would like a career in int. health relations.


In two weeks, I will be done with the health system, and I will commence the downhill slide towards Scotland. I'm so stoked. I'm heading to Atl. to see Gov't Mule with my best bud, then up to the "Paradise of Youth." I'm so excited to be able to run around like little kid with no qualms or responsibilities. Then the first weekend in August, i'll be a 'dad' at Happening. It is great time and i'm looking forward to the experience. Then I am giving a presentation to my sponsoring Rotary club, and I am going to see a few of my prof. who have helped to make my successes a reality. Thank you all so much for challenging me.



I don't know exactly what the future will bring, but i'm ready to dive and not look back. I'm going to let my "Soulshine" you should too! K, thanks!

Life, oh how it moves!

After a night like last night, I am counting down the days. The ER was slammed all night; people everywhere. Pure Craziness. Not to mention a healthy taste of ignorance thrown in.

Alas, as i'm trying to get mad and write with fire, Clapton is jamming in the backgroud. His melodies and riffs are quickly calming my nerves. Good music, especially in the morning, is my best driving force. It releaves my stress and lets me know things, very soon, are going to be all right.

In fact, two great bands are performing soon and I will be at both. Gov't Mule in the end of July and the legendary Paul McCartney. So if you're feeling blue or just want to meet some cool people and hear some great tunes, I insist you come one. It will be a great time. I promise to behave myself.

Peace!

After a great weekend...

I had the pleasure of meeting so many wonderful people at the Rotary Scholar conference. It was really powerful listening to and seeing everyone's desire to help the human family. There were laughs, informative talks, socializing, more laughs, crazy dancing, and most importantly, the building of a great community of scholars. Although the 22 other scholars are going to 15 different countries, we will forever be connected through the great memeories and experiences as Rotary Scholars.

Although I went solo the last time I studied abroad and had a great time, I can honestly say having this tremendous connection will make such a positive difference in my new experiences.

I thank you all for the wonderful time and I hope you have the best time abroad. I look forward to seeing you all again.

Peace.

So it begins...

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Tomorrow, June 26, I leave for the first part of my trip. I am going to the University of Tampa for a Rotary Ambassadorial scholar conference. I have slowly counted down the days since District 6910 sent me the fireworks last August. I am incredibly thrilled about my upcoming experiences. My friends de Europe, I will see you all again, soon and the good times will continue to roll on.

Special thanks goes out to my parents, my family and friends,my professors at Reinhardt, Col. Judge Bailey, District Gov. Shane Burr, and the rest of the believers at Canton Rotary. I know without you, none of this would be possible. Thanks.