District 7020 Conference Update
DG Vance, Musician Len and Chairman David singing "BVI Mehson"
The Committee for the 2013 District 7020 Conference led by Chairman David Archer hosted a joint meeting of the Rotary Clubs of the BVI on 11 October 2012. The purpose of the meeting was to inform club members of the planning progress to date for the conference.
JOURNEY to 2013
After District Governor Vance gave remarks on his recent and upcoming trips, Chairman David introduced the members of his hard working team of Conference organizers. This was followed by presentations from the various subcommittees on Registration, Accommodations, Financial, Fundraising, Hospitality, Entertainment/Recreation, Public Relations and other areas of planning. Rotarians were reminded that to participate in any of the conference events they must be registered.
Carpe Diem!
Inspired by the Fund Raising subcommittee's presentation, Past President Percy Rhoden with his usual flair seized the moment and decided to raise an immediate $20,000 for the Planning Committee. Channeling the demeanor of an auctioneer, he got the ball rolling himself by donating $500 then solicited another $20,000 (donations of $500 -$1,000) from Rotarians present, surpassing his initial goal. All are to be commended for their unexpected but generous contributions.
CONFERENCE LOGO
The Committee then shared with Rotarians the Conference Logo. The logo, designed by local graphic artist Trevon Lewis, embodies the spirit of Rotary International, Rotary District 7020 as well as the conference host country the British Virgin Islands.
Elements of the logo comprised:
10 Stars – representing the ten regions of district 7020
Anchor – symbolizing the BVI as an international sailing and yachting center
Dove – the presence of the dove is twofold. It is of historic significance in the BVI and refers to the name allotted by Christopher Columbus to the island of Tortola. Land of the Turtle Dove. It is also an international symbol of peace and ties in Rotary International’s 2012/2013 theme of “Peace through Service.”
Hibiscus – showcasing the inherent beauty of the district’s ten regions, all sharing similarities but also boasting an enviable uniqueness. The symbol is commonly seen throughout District 7020.
Rotary Wheel – the symbol of Rotary International, with elements representing the clubs, members, and the movement to serve selflessly.
CONFERENCE SONG
The conference song “BVI Mehson” was introduced. Led by local musician Len Lewis, DG Vance and Chairman David, Rotarians (gifted and otherwise) were invited to join in song. The lyrics, which were written by local fungi band Lashing Dogs, pays tribute to the islands and culture of the British Virgin Islands.
The meeting ended in the usual fashion with the Sergeant of Arms levying fees on Rotarians for their transgressions (real and perceived) and with a robust recitation of the Four Way Test.
For more on the upcoming conference and to register visit the Conference Website at http://www.rotary7020conference.com/