International Convention Recap

Chicago in April was a welcoming site for delegates attending International Variety's 76th convention. A comment from Kansas City delegate Chet Francis describes the occasion as one of sentimentality and a renewal of friendships. As the convention quickly settled down to business, one of the subjects of discussion was the ever-present challenge of maintaining a high level of financial support for Variety's philanthropic programs. Delegates from 51 Tents exchanged ideas, reviewed their progress and seemed determined upon their return to home territory to recharge their efforts on behalf of the children.

For first-time delegates it was pleasant to discover that though there is a serious side to the annual conclave, there is also a time to relax and enjoy light-hearted entertainment. After all, Variety was founded in show business, and the industry has never deserted the cause. Suffice it to say, throughout a busy agenda, a good time was had by all.

Kansas City delegates were unanimous in their selection of a convention high point. Each year Variety honors an individual who leads the way in service to mankind. This year's coveted Humanitarian award was presented to a gentleman about whom it was written: "Many men have reached for the moon. "Buzz" Aldrin has been there." And then these words, "Dr. Aldrin exemplifies the vision, the courage and the determination to go forth and seek the future. In all that he does, his humanitarian spirit prevails. It is with great humility that we honor Dr. Aldrin, an astronaut who set foot upon the moon."

Perhaps a written message from Helen Clark, the Prime Minister of New Zealand, expresses it best: "Variety goes from strength to strength each year." And so it may be concluded as 51 Tents put their hands and hearts to work, their strengths may differ, but their enthusiasm never wanes. And if at times emotion permeates the convention -and tears are shed -they are tears of fulfillment and joy.

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