Our Annual District Conference, held from May 17 to 19, 2024, at the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno, Nevada, was an extraordinary event! This Multi-District Conference brought together Districts 5150, 5180, and 5190 – more than 550 people! – under the extravaganza theme "Better Together". And indeed, we were better together!
A Grand Kickoff
After 18 months of meticulous planning by Mary Liu (San Francisco), our district conference chair, and the dedicated co-chairs from districts 5180 and 5190—Janice Gage, Tina Spencer, and Steve Snyder—the "Better Together" multi-district conference was finally here! Excitement was palpable as we gathered to witness the fruition of their hard work.
The conference kickoff on Friday, May 17, began with the prestigious Major Donor Reception, honoring those who donated $10,000 or more to The Rotary Foundation. We were graced by the presence of Rotary International President (RIP) Gordon McInally and his wife Heather, elevating the evening's grandeur.
The welcome reception for all attendees, held poolside, buzzed with energy and excitement as Rotarians from all three districts mingled, enjoyed fellowship, drinks, and delicious hors d'oeuvres. It was the perfect start to a memorable and inspiring weekend!
Of course, you could not walk very far without running into our friendly, red vest -wearing Seargent at Arms! They ensured everyone found their way and was greeted with a smile all three days of the event. Thanks to Bob Gutgsell (Peninsula Starlight) for serving as Chief SAA Wrangler.
Exciting Friday Night Fundraising Events for Polio Plus
Friday night concluded with a burst of excitement as we held two thrilling fundraising events for Polio Plus. The Strike Out Polio bowling tournament at the Grand Sierra Bowling Center featured 56 enthusiastic bowlers competing for custom bowling pin trophies designed by Margaret Miley (San Francisco). Each trophy was personally signed by RI President Gordon McInally, adding an extra touch of prestige. Awards were given to the highest scoring team, highest fundraising team, best effort team, and top individual bowler, with Ian Bailey proudly holding his trophies as the high scorer. The tournament was a roaring success, raising nearly $7,000 for Polio Plus.
Simultaneously, the Poker for Polio tournament in the Grand Sierra's Poker Room saw 40 participants bluffing and strategizing for victory. Mark Heller from D5190 emerged as the champion, earning the coveted 2024 Champion of Poker bracelet. The poker tournament raised $2,000 for Polio Plus, with the competitive spirit running high in both the poker room and the bowling center!
To top it all off, winners from both tournaments were surprised with a special and priceless gift: a private photo session with RI President McInally and his wife Heather. It was a night of fun, fellowship, and fierce competition, all for a noble cause.
Thank you to Jean Caramatti (San Francisco International Airport) for coordinating the Strike Out Polio bowling tournament and Jenny Bates (Ignacio) for coordinating the Poker of Polio tournament.
Action-Packed Saturday
Saturday, May 18, kicked off with District 5150's Awards Meeting, where our clubs shone brightly as they received Club Excellence Awards. District Governor Laine Hendricks presented four special awards, including one to Mary Liu for her stellar work as this year's District Conference Chair. Ron Gin (SF Chinatown), Bob Gutgsell (Peninsula Starlight), Steve Gross (Belmont Redwood Shores), and John Dean (SF Chinatown) were also honored. The cherished tradition of passing the pick through the Governor Line, initiated by Past District Governor Bill Sturgeon, continued, symbolizing the seamless transition of leadership to Governor-Elect Steve Wright (Pacifica).
Throughout the Conference, the House of Friendship buzzed with camaraderie and excitement. Over 55 Rotary clubs showcased their remarkable service projects, alongside various non-profit organizations. The House of Friendship was also adorned with themed raffle baskets, beautifully crafted by Assistant Governors from all three districts.
The breakout sessions were a hub of inspiration and innovation, drawing attendees into vibrant discussions. Many sessions focused on mental health wellness, attracting standing-room-only crowds eager to learn and share insights.
One breakout session was the popular “Let’s Make A Movie” workshop, led by Ron Gin. Here’s a peak of what they created: VIDEO: Let’s Make A Movie, Conference Edition.
In a poignant and heartfelt moment, we also took time to remember the Rotarians we lost in 2023-2024, honoring their contributions and celebrating their lives.
An Inspiring Lunchtime Ceremony
During the lunch plenary session, we were treated to a stirring flag ceremony led by scouts, accompanied by soulful renditions of the National Anthems of the United States and Scotland. The atmosphere was electric as we then listened to the winners of the D5180 and D5190 speech contests. These exceptional high school orators, having triumphed at club and area levels, delivered riveting and powerful speeches on Rotary themes, showcasing their outstanding talent and dedication. It was a truly inspiring moment that highlighted the incredible potential of our youth and the impact of Rotary's values.
Our lunch time speaker was the hilarious Brad Bonar, who wowed us with magic and comedy, while sharing his personal journey with depression. Though that experience, he founded “One Degree of Separation,” a comedy show that tackles the tough topics of suicide, depression, and mental health through the safety of laughter. The comedians of One Degree of Separation kept audiences laughing during the afternoon breakout session!
Finally, each plenary session had a "Better Together" skit that was a spoof on a popular TV show. Our lunchtime theme was "Friends" which included a coffee house discussion about Joey's experience with depression, and ended with Pheobie (played by DG Laine) singing Smelly Cat... with some added Rotary lyrics.
A Spectacular Saturday Evening
Saturday evening began with a grand reception hosted by Rotary International President Gordon McInally. In honor of his Scottish heritage, many attendees donned kilts, adding a touch of tradition and flair to the event.
The President’s dinner was a spectacular affair, starting with a parade of world flags carried by Rotary Youth Exchange students. We were then captivated by a stunning violin performance from the District 5190 Music Contest winner. Adding to the evening's grandeur, a bagpiper and RIP McInally led a parade of 2023-2024 Club Presidents, Assistant Governors, and District Governors. The skit of the evening spoofed TV's Shark Tank, and featured JT Forbus (San Francisco) and Jenny Bates pitching the "Rotranslator" (a device to interpret Rotary acronyms), but the ultimate winner was one pitch to create hope in our communities.
RIP McInally's keynote speech was both inspiring and motivating, setting the tone for the night. He spoke about creating hope in the lives of others, and that we need to stay focused on the future or Rotary.
The evening concluded on a high note with lively dancing and performances by the live band South Fork. The fun didn’t stop there, as many Rotarians from D5150 headed up to Laine’s gubernatorial suite for a nightcap, where the fellowship and camaraderie continued well into the night.
A Joyful Farewell
Sunday, May 19, featured a heartwarming brunch with a parade of incoming 2024-2025 Club Presidents, Assistant Governors, and District Governors. Before starting the plenary session, the crowd spontaneously broke into a flash mob dance routine to "Dancing Queen" by ABBA, celebrating the final day of the conference in style. AG Stacie Vance (San Rafael Evening) emceed the Sunday session, which included a Q&A with the three district governors—Laine Hendricks (D5150), Sidney Smith (D5180), and Stacey Graham (D5190). Attendees asked questions and even Rotary trivia to try to stump the governors, but they knew all the answers! The final skit of the weekend spoofed TV's "Amazing Race" and featured three teams (one from each district) literally racing to the stage to complete a challenge to win. In the end, all three teams were winners because -- everyone is Better Together.
Finally, the governor lines for all three districts held their pinning ceremony for incoming leadership. Steve Wright, Mitone Griffiths (Half Moon Bay), and Yuhui Chen (Menlo Park) were all recognized.
The highlight of the entire Conference was the incredible opportunity to connect with Rotarians from our District and forge new friendships with those from the other Districts. It truly encapsulated the spirit of being "Better Together."
A Heartfelt Thank You to Our Volunteers
The resounding success of the Better Together Multi-District Conference stands as a testament to the extraordinary commitment and tireless efforts of more than a hundred volunteers from each of the three districts. Their unwavering dedication and selfless contributions played an indispensable role in bringing our vision to life. We are immensely grateful for their belief in our mission and for the countless hours of hard work they invested. Their passion and enthusiasm were the driving force behind every aspect of this conference, and we extend our heartfelt thanks for their invaluable support.
Let's carry the energy, inspiration, and camaraderie from this unforgettable Conference into our year ahead! Make sure you register for the 2025 Conference in Santa Rosa!
VIEW MOMENTS FROM THE CONFERENCE: