District Conference 2009 - Bishop, CA

Reach New Altrusa Heights -- That was the theme of the 2009 District Conference, held in Bishop, CA, and hosted by the Eastern Sierra and Indian Wells Valley Clubs.

Over 100 Altrusans, representing all 21 of District Eleven's Clubs converged upon Bishop's Tri County Fairground April 16-19. Introductions were made as new members were welcomed; warm hugs were exchanged among long-time friends; new friendships were formed; and then it was down to business!

For Presidents, Treasurers, and Expediters, the Conference began on Thursday afternoon with specialized workshops tailored to their specific needs. The rest of the early comers participated in an All Conference Workshop led by Dona Garretson, International First Vice President. Other Conference workshops included:

• Communications (Western Union)
• Presidents (There's a New Sheriff in Town)
• Literacy (McGuffey Readers)
• ASTRA (Young'uns)

Friday's Opening Session included a dynamic keynote address by Kathleen Sheehan, Bishop's esteemed Chief of Police. Chief Sheehan has the noteworthy distinction of being the first female head of law enforcement in the Eastern Sierra.

Pulling off an event of this magnitude requires 'all hands on deck'! In addition to the host clubs and Planning Committee, the following Clubs also contributed to the success of our Conference:

• Margarita Party hosted by the Arizona Clubs
• Martini Party hosted by Chula Vista
• Table centerpieces for the Awards and Foundation Luncheons and Installation Banquet were provided by Glendale, Central Coast, and Los Angeles, respectively.

During Sunday morning's festivities, the Call to Conference announced the 2010 Conference would be held in Long Beach, California.