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Rotary District 5500 Conference Recap
The Rotary Club of SaddleBrooke was well represented at the recent Rotary District 5500 Annual Conference of Clubs held at Casino del Sol from October 5-7. Several of our members attended and our own Dan Watson presented at one of the breakout sessions. Rotarians convened from all over southern Arizona to be educated, inspired, and even entertained. There were outstanding, nationally known speakers at every meal. In addition, there were engaging breakouts and roundtable discussions on Club Service Projects, Fundraising, Member Engagement, Empowering Girls, and more. There was a House of Friendship with exhibits from clubs and nonprofits which generated many ideas for service. The Conference also provided the opportunity to take part in an onsite Service Project and join a Friday Evening Fun Event.
Club member, Diane Demeroutis, says about her experience: “We had fabulous speakers at conference that were very inspiring. Each ensured me to get involved with those less fortunate in our country in addition to those globally.” Club member, Wanda Bailey, really appreciated hearing from David Ambros, author of “A Place Called Home”. He highlighted the shortcomings in our foster care system and potential solutions. Another great presentation was made by Erin Gruwell, award winning educator and author of “Dear Freedom Writer” and “The Freedom Writers Diary”. Erin pointed out the potential in overlooked kids who are too often written off as problems.
Our club members are encouraged to attend next year’s conference. When asked about his experience, our club member, Dan Watson, said, “This was my first conference in several years. Always a good experience making new friends and learning about the many good projects that other Rotary Clubs are
doing. District conferences are inspiring and educational, and fun!” Monica Oszust also said, “Having attended my first district conference for Rotary District 5500, I realized what a warm and welcoming community that we have here in Arizona. Having only been in our club for two years, I felt very welcomed by all the Rotary members that I have met at other district functions. The Conference was very well organized and easy to get around. All the speakers were wonderful and the breakout sessions were interesting. I even learned from the Interact students how to make blankets for the Linus Project. I would highly recommend any Rotarian to attend a district conference.” Both Roger and Wanda Bailey were impressed by the venue, Casino del Sol. The meals were great. The environment was beautiful and the resort offered many fun things to do. It wasn’t too far from home either!
doing. District conferences are inspiring and educational, and fun!” Monica Oszust also said, “Having attended my first district conference for Rotary District 5500, I realized what a warm and welcoming community that we have here in Arizona. Having only been in our club for two years, I felt very welcomed by all the Rotary members that I have met at other district functions. The Conference was very well organized and easy to get around. All the speakers were wonderful and the breakout sessions were interesting. I even learned from the Interact students how to make blankets for the Linus Project. I would highly recommend any Rotarian to attend a district conference.” Both Roger and Wanda Bailey were impressed by the venue, Casino del Sol. The meals were great. The environment was beautiful and the resort offered many fun things to do. It wasn’t too far from home either!
One last note: Many young people were at the conference. Club member, Doug May, observed: “The Rotaract Club and the Interact Clubs met together. One of the challenge activities was for two people to sit on the floor, back-to-back with arms linked, and try to get up again as many times as possible. I didn't try it.” We’re with you on that one Doug!
