Barbara Boxer: “As we begin a new year and a new Congress, more than 1.2 million Rotarians in 166 countries are beginning the centennial…”

“As we begin a new year and a new Congress, more than 1.2 million Rotarians in 166 countries are beginning the centennial celebration of Rotary International. On February 23, 1905, the Rotary Club of Chicago was formed by Paul P. Harris, an attorney who wanted to recapture the friendly spirit of small-town America in a big-city professional club. The new group took its name from the practice of rotating club meetings among members' offices. Rotary quickly grew, with clubs forming across the country and around the world. At the same time, the organization's interests expanded from social and professional interests to community service. Along with public service, Rotary has given the world a high standard of ethics known as the 4-Way Test. This test asks the following four questions of the things we think, say, or do: 1. Is it the truth? 2. Is it fair to all concerned? 3. Will it build goodwill and better friendships? 4. Will it be beneficial to all concerned? During and after World War II, Rotary International became deeply involved in efforts to promote global peace and understanding.”