Last weekend, nearly 250 Rotarians and Guests from around the District and the world of Rotary came together at the University of North Florida in Jacksonville, for fellowship, fun, training and inspiration.
We were privileged to have Past RI Trustee, Past RI Vice President Kenneth Schuppert and his wife Lynn, as our President's Representative for the weekend. Ken and Lynn hail from Decatur, Alabama where both are partners in the law firm that includes Past RI President Mark Maloney. We heard from Ken and Lynn throughout the weekend and were inspired by their stories of service around the world.
We also had the honor of hosting incoming Zone 33/34 Director Patrick Eakes from Greensboro, NC. Patrick is a Past District Governor and will be our representative on the RI Board of Directors for the next two years. He shared many stories, but we were particularly interested to hear how important Rotary Youth Service programs have been to his family. His daughter Sarah, joined us on Saturday.
The weekend began with the annual College of Governors' dinner at Maggianos. Thirty-five past, current and future Governors and their guests enjoyed a fun evening and were formally introduced to DGND Bo Norton.
Friday, District Assembly was held, including the annual District business meeting and afternoon training sessions for incoming club leadership in 2024-25.
Friday evening activities were the kick off for the Annual Conference. A cocktail reception was held on the patio and thirty Rotarians were treated to an informative and hilarious take on the world of Scotch Whisky. PDG George Robertson-Burnett regaled the group with stories of his homeland and all were able to sample expressions across the whisky spectrum. The event raised over $1200 for Polio Plus.
Saturday was a full day of great food, fellowship and inspirational messages from our fantastic speakers.
Professor Yohani Kayinamura, a member of RC Daytona Beach West, shared his work in rescuing "street children" in Rwanda. And PDG (D5130) Barbara Spengler, RC Lakewood Ranch discussed the Power of the Rotary Foundation around the world and here in Florida.
A number of volunteers were recognized for service to the District. The Assistant Governors, District Training Facilitator, Bea Fore and Lieutenant Governor, Dean Scott were recognized with the Rotary District 6970 Avenue of Service Award in the area of Club Service. It was also special for me personally to award a number of them with Paul Harris Fellow recognition.
A memoriam for Rotarians who passed in the last year was conducted. And we also recognized some special Rotarians with the All Watson and Brent Williams Memorial Awards for years of consistent service to their communities, clubs, and the District.
The evening concluded with a fun presentation by George Robertson-Burnett, who then conducted an auction which raised another $2,000 for Polio Plus.
At the conclusion, a traditional pin exchange took place marking the change in leadership for the District. Even though I now have the Past District Governor pin in my possession, DGE Mickey Ulmer was quick to point out that I'm not eligible to wear it until July 1!
I'm grateful for all who attended any portion of the Assembly and Conference. I've heard from many that you'll take back something that will enhance your Rotary experience.
I hope that you will make plans to attend next year in Daytona Beach. DGE Mickey has started the planning process and particulars will be announced soon.
The planning for this event begins almost a year in advance. I'm so thankful for the time and great work of all the volunteers responsible for putting on the Assembly and Conference. In particular, PDG Ken Baker, RC West Jacksonville who was the event Chair, and AG Susan Hill, RC Orange Park Sunrise who coordinated all of the logistics and hospitality.
To all, a heartfelt Thank You!
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