District Conference
The Seward Rotary club went above and beyond to ensure every attendee had a great district conference. The local business of Seward also showcased all Seward had to offer in both great food, venues, and Hospitality, and that is with a capital H. Thursday night Major Marine Tours hosted a super Bar B Que with fresh cooked brats, potato salad, baked beans and a wide selection of sodas and desserts. A bar was available, games on the lawn and Hobo Jim , Paul Harris Fellow, and recent recipient of UAA Phd in fine arts, had everyones toes tapping.
Friday began with the E-club meeting and DG Harry presenting the 100% Paul Harris Award.
Major Marine Tours offered a delicious salmon lunch in the 360 Hotel. We were transported via busses out to the Seward High School for the Opening ceremony, Leadership Academy graduation and awards. Our Keynote speaker Stella Roy’s topic What is a Rotarian - We are making a difference, left everyone with things to ponder.
Speaker Madhukar Malhotra had very thoughtful comments on the International Family of Rotary/ Then club awards were presented and Magician Jim Lang performed.
The Governor’s Banquet was on Fox Island, and Kenai Fjord Tours transported everyone out to a wonderful dinner and Key note Speaker Michael Angelo Caruso had insightful words on Engage Anyone in 15 seconds.
Saturday began with various breakfast meetings and the year in review as well as Rotary Cares for Kids projects. Then we moved into individual district awards. Rene Potholes presented Rotary Survival 101 - finding Rotary life balance. recognizing the importance of health and wellness and taking care of yourself so you can do the work of Rotary, she had a handy hint, when you have an idea or thought to do something, count down to 5 and do it, otherwise after 5 seconds your brain will give you excuses not to do it.
Youth exchange was represented by 4 inbound students, a rebound, and a great presentation by a current rotarian who was a youth exchange student and the impact YE had on her life. Then we had a great presentation on Project Amigo and the work being done in Mexico, Many children have been given an education and success stories abound. Club projects were highlighted. And Hobo Jim talked about his experience as a song writer and singer, and all the paths he has traveled. We had a lovely lunch at the high school, enchiladas, and all the sides
The announcement that next years district conference will be held in Anchorage at the Captain Cook and early registration is available. Don Evans talk “It’s what we do that really matters” rounded out the speakers for the day. The Seward Sea Life Center hosted all our events for the evening. the Major Donor Reception, the Youth Exchange Auction. Seward really put on a fun food event. The taste of Seward, featured all sorts of yummy things to eat, through out the center tables for conversations, and food stations encouraged, everyone to explore the Sea Life Center and enjoy fellowship and food in truly stunning settings. I felt no guilt eating salmon spread and smoked cod in from of the salmon display. The DJ played to the packed dance floor area in the entry atrium.
Sunday began with a delicious brunch of quiche and pastries Thanks to the Seward Club, and we moved into the Celebration of Life for District Rotarians and Jon Deicer. We had the passing of the Gavel, as well as the passing the paddle, and the raffle drawing.
A great big thank you to the Seward Rotary club, the town of Seward, and all the people who made this district conference fun, enlighten, and energizing.