Utah Rotary District 5420 Conference

URDC 2010 Counted A Success!

2010-05-26T08:05:00.000-07:00

The general consensus among more than 200 attendees at the Utah Rotary District Conference is that the "Rendezvous at the Confluence" was "awesome," "wonderful," a rousing success and well worth the time to attend! The weather was perfect, presenters were outstanding, and food was plentiful and tasty!

Highlights for Rotarians from 44 clubs around the state most certainly included a magnificent morning of challenging golf at Sunbrook; a visit by the 6-member District 4845 GSE team from Northern Argentina and Paraguay; the high energy enthusiasm of six youth exchange students from all corners of the world (including South Korea, Argentina, Belgium, Germany and Japan); in depth presentations on such topics as Rotary 101, recruiting younger members using social media; and impressive international service projects.

Governor Gil Trujillo gave out numerous awards:

- Drew Stroberg (Vernal Rotary Club) as "Small Club Rookie of the Year"
- Ruth Urcinole (Salt Lake Rotary Club) "Large Club Rookie of the Year"
- West Jordan Club took home both the "Project of the Year" and "Club of the Year" recognition for their fabulous "Field of Dreams"
- PDG Wally Brown was named District 5420's Rotarian of the Year
- Ray and Ruby Robinson were recognized with the Governor’s Award "for dedication and service to the Youth of District 5420"

Congratulations to Jerry Summerhays selected after intensive interviews among all candidates as the District Governor Nominee for service in 2012-13!

During the Friday luncheon session, Governor Gil and PDG Wally Brown presented District Literacy Awards to the Rotary Clubs of Richfield, Red Rock Morning, Ogden, Vernal, Heber Valley, Draper/Riverton and Dixie Sunrise. Zone Literacy Awards went to the Rotary clubs of Hispaño-Latinos of Salt Lake City, Provo, South Salt Lake, Sugar House, and West Jordan.

The Presidential Citation was awarded to clubs which met District goals for the year. Recipients were Cedar City, Heber Valley, Hurricane Valley, Kaysville, Park City, South Salt Lake, Sugarhouse, Utah Valley Sunrise and Vernal Clubs. Interact clubs at Davis High School and Wasatch High School, as well as Rotaract Clubs on the campuses of BYU, Utah State University and Salt Lake Community College also received the Presidential Citation.

In a "Service Above Self" conference project, Rotarians gave 21 pints of blood (10 were first time donors).

And, who will soon forget the touching presentation by Friday night’s keynote speaker Bryce Payne, recently returned from post-earthquake recovery efforts in Haiti . . . the extemporaneous and offtune Rotary "choir" singing "Are You From Dixie?" in the opening session . . . or the instant connection, good humor and harmony of Rick Tinucci, the RI President’s Representative and his charming wife, Diane?

During the URDC, approximately 65 RYLA students, youth exchange students and Interact members participating in a simultaneous district youth conference, hosted a great breakfast on a perfect morning at the Town Square. It took time to encourage people out of the fresh air and sunshine and into the restored 3rd floor of the St. George Art Center (original home of Dixie College); but in the end everyone admitted, the transition was well worth the effort for an outstanding presentation on Peace and Conflict Resolution by Brian Farr, one of about 500 Rotary International Peace Scholars.

"I was very happy with the content, the weather, the presenters and the attendance - particularly having 15 PDG’s taking part - in the District Conference. We also had great representation from nearly every club," noted Governor Gil as he passed along the Richard L. Evans Rotary pin to incoming District Governor Penny Atkinson.

GSE Team Tours Utah

2010-05-10T20:08:00.000-07:00

Perhaps the last GSE team coming to Rotary District 5420 was in attendance at the district conference in St. George. Team members included two educators, two attornies, a biomedical engineer and a foundation executive. They were Team Leader Marina Petrovic, Maria de las Mercedes Machado (nicknamed “Grima”), Albertina Seillant, Ana Maria Achiette, Maria Belen Garay and Gustavo Deluca - all from District 4845 (Northern Argentina and Paraguay).

Their month in the Beehive State included the usual sightseeing and excursions, vocational days and developing international friendships. While in St. George for the district conference, the team attended and spoke at the District Conference, experienced a whirlwind of interaction with many in their vocations, spent a wild night in Las Vegas, and as a very special treat . . . enjoyed a flyover with Phil Hall of St. George Rotary sightseeing from high above the Grand Canyon, Lake Powell, Bryce Canyon and, of course, Snow Canyon State Park.

In Rotary International’s new Future Vision Plan, GSE teams have been replaced by “Vocational Training Teams” which more accurately refers to ways in which Rotarians can support vocational training projects. While the focus remains on vocational service, members of a VTT do not need to work in the same profession, but will use funds provided through a global grant to support humanitarian activities addressing a singular need - such as water and sanitation projects - somewhere in the world.

According to Robert S. Scott (2007-08 Rotary Foundation Trustee Chair), this change was made because, “Being everything to everyone has left the Foundation struggling to realize its mission. This new structure allows us to build on our strengths and realize more sustainable outcomes.”

Meet the RI Representative

2010-04-14T22:19:00.000-07:00

Utah Rotary District 5420 is pleased to welcome Rick Tinucci, RI President John Kenny's Representative to the May 13-15, 2010 conference in St. George.

PDG (Missouri District) Rick Tinucci’s Rotary career began in 1983 when he was invited to join the St. Louis Rotary Club. He chaired several committees, then served six years on the board of directors before his year as President (1999 – 2000). Rick also served on the board and as President in 1997 for the Skyway Farm Foundation, the cornerstone community service project for the St. Louis Rotary Club, serving the area’s special needs children.

On the district level, Rick served as an assistant governor (2000 - 02) and was active on several district committees focusing on community service and improving club performance. Rick served as Rotary District 6060 Governor in 2004-2005 under RI president Jonathan Magiyabe. Since then he has served on the district level as District Trainer, membership chair and as representative to the 2007 and 2009 RI Council on Legislation. Rick has also been an instructor and discussion leader and later as president of "Show Me Rotary," Missouri’s multi-district PETS - the second oldest in existence.

At the Zone level Rick has served as operations chair and training leader on the executive committee. He has been a panelist at the RI conventions in Salt Lake City and Los Angeles. Rick and his wife Diane are major donors to The Rotary Foundation and members of the Paul Harris Society.

After graduation from Purdue University, Rick built a career in the building controls industry. He is currently the Executive Vice President and COO with the Bick Group, a contractor specializing in the high tech building markets. Rick has served as a director for several trade organizations and is currently a member of the local chapter of the Green Building Council.

Rick and Diane are the proud parents of two successful adults: Andy and Karin. Andy is a happily married Chicago-based architect. Karin is a happily married physical therapist in Florida. Rick and Diane are also blessed with three wonderful granddaughters - 5-year-old Isabel, 4-year-old Abigail, and 3-year-old Olive.

An Invitation from Governor Gil

2010-02-10T18:55:00.000-08:00

. . . to attend the "Rendezvous at the Confluence" in St. George!

Fellow Rotarians, it is time to finalize plans to attend the District Conference in St. George on May 13-15, 2010. This invitation to the "Rendezvous at the Confluence" is especially extended to new Rotarians and those who have never before attended a District Conference!

Rotarians all over the world will attest that attending a District Conference will make you a better Rotarian because you will learn what other members and clubs are doing to make their communities - and the world - better. You will have the opportunity to see what other creative clubs in the state are doing. Learn how you can help make your club grow and how you can retain members after you’ve sworn them in! Learn why the Rotary Foundation is important to your club, to District 5420 and to the world as a whole. Learn the role of District 5420 - and how you can help insure the success of your club - in Rotary International’s Future Vision Plan.

At the Utah Rotary District Conference, you will make new Rotary friends, reconnect with old Rotary friends, get inspired with new programs and projects . . . and meet the future of Rotary in youth service. Join us May 13-15, 2010 in St. George.

"Rendezvous at the Confluence" Conference Theme Announced

2010-02-04T18:27:00.000-08:00

"Confluence" is defined as "the coming together of two or more streams" or "a gathering or meeting together; a crowd." In the case of the Utah Rotary District Conference in St. George, both definitions apply!

In reference to "the coming together of two or more streams," in 1776, the explorers Escalante and Dominquez passed near what is now Zion National Park and followed the Virgin River from its origin east of Rockville to the confluence of the North and East forks - known as LaVerkin Creek and Ash Creek - where they camped during the fall of that year. The early Spaniards called the Virgin "El Rio de Sulfureo" with reference to the nearby hot sulphur springs. Later Jedediah Smith - another of the area’s intrepid explorers - named it the Adams River for then-President John Adams, though the name obviously didn’t stick. Today, Escalante's campsite is known as Confluence Park (near Toquerville) and welcomes hikers, bird watchers, picnickers, and horseback riders to enjoy its spectacular scenery.

The second meaning - "a gathering or meeting together, a crowd" - at least in this writing, has reference to the upcoming "Rendezvous at the Confluence" otherwise known as the Utah Rotary District Conference on May 13-15, 2010 where Rotarians from all over the district will gather together to advance the Object of Rotary through fellowship, inspirational addresses, and the discussion of matters of importance to Rotary clubs and Rotary International, as well as to showcase Rotary programs and successful district and club activities. This "Rendezvous at the Confluence" will also feature music, laughter and service. Don’t miss it!

Suggestions of Local Hot Spots

2010-01-23T20:33:00.000-08:00

While Utah Rotarians are enjoying the District Conference, others who have traveled with you to St. George may want to know what else there is to do in the area. If history is of interest to your traveling companions, there are many pioneer settlement sites to visit, including Brigham Young’s Winter Home, Jacob Hamblin’s home in Santa Clara, the St. George Temple and Visitors Center, LDS Tabernacle, St. George Social Hall and Opera House. Of course, these can be explored individually, but many are included in the very popular St. George Live! On this walking or bus tour of the downtown historic district, tourists can meet with and talk to early pioneer settlers / LDS church leaders who helped settle this part of the Utah Territory. Tickets are available at the Pioneer Art Museum located at Main Street and 200 North.

The new Water Walk, which meanders down Main Street from Brooks Pond, ends at the Town Square with its immensely popular water feature. Bring the kids, a box lunch and plenty of towels.

If there is time, tour the campus of Dixie State College; take a long walk along miles of walking trails which meander - and connect - our red rock county from Ivins to Washington City. Another popular outing is a drive up to Pine Valley, including a tour of the LDS church’s oldest - still in operation - chapel with a stop at the Mountain Meadow Massacre Site (we’re not proud of it, but sadly it is a part of our local history).

There are also wonderful opportunities to explore our famous geology, including Snow Canyon State Park, Zion National Park . . . the Dinosaur Tracks Museum or the offices of the Red Cliffs Desert Reserve. Shoppers will find plenty of good bargains at the Zion Factory Stores Outlet with 30 premium shops and restaurants or wander through the Red Cliffs Mall. But, if these local hot spots don’t satisfy visitors to the area - or if it’s a little too warm - there are also 22 movie screens scattered around the St. George area.

"Rotary's Got Talent!"

2010-01-14T11:05:00.000-08:00

With the talent search open to acts from across the district, "Rotary's Got Talent" will be a variety showcase of talented Rotarians of any age, profession or club in the state. In a colorful array of hopeful stars, the competition is open to singers, instrumentalists, dancers, comedians, contortionists, impressionists, jugglers, magicians, or ventriloquists, all vying for their chance to strut and perform on stage. There won’t be a $1 million prize, but "Rotary’s Got Talent" is certain to be one of the most memorable events of the Utah Rotary District Conference, May 13-15, 2010 in St. George! Only eight acts will be selected to perform . . . so call 435-668-9988 for more information or to sign up!

Help Make the Conference a Success

2010-01-06T19:34:00.000-08:00

For the Utah Rotary District Conference, your club is asked to:

1. Create a display about the outstanding accomplishments of your club

2. Put together a team for the URDC golf tournament to benefit Polio Plus!

3. Encourage a talented member or group of members to enter the "Rotary’s Got Talent" competition

4. Roll up your sleeve toward an unofficial District goal of 100 pints of blood

5. Washington County clubs are also asked to join the Rotary choir!

Plan to attend on May 13-15, 2010 in St. George! We can hardly wait to see you!

Rotary Youth Conference Planned

2009-12-20T09:35:00.000-08:00

While the grown-ups in Utah Rotary District 5420 are attending their annual conference and learning about club and district programs in the state, approximately 150 youth involved in Interact, Rotaract, RYLA and Rotary Youth Exchange throughout the Beehive State, will also gather in St. George on the weekend of May 13-15, 2010.

The Rotary Youth Conference will include speakers and breakout sessions, hula dancers, tests of athletic prowess in the form of Club Olympics (including medals for the competition), swimming at Sand Hollow Aquatic Center, a couple of service projects - one involving feeding hungry Rotarians and another involving red paint - as well as the introduction of a statewide youth service project and awards for the best of the events promotional videos. Chairman Michael Wells reminds clubs to "encourage your club’s future Rotarians to join in the fun in St. George." For more information, contact the chairman at mwells2811@msn.com.

Cedar City is Southern Utah's First

2009-12-20T07:42:00.001-08:00

The distinction of being southern Utah’s oldest Rotary club goes to Cedar City, chartered as RI Club #2083 on June 10, 1925 after the Salt Lake Rotary Club voted to share its territory to organize the state’s first club south of the Wasatch Front. Throughout its impressive 84-year history, the Cedar City Rotary Club has contributed in countless ways to their community, state and the world. Host of the 2005 Utah Rotary District Conference during RI’s Centennial Year, Cedar City Rotarians support the Happy Factory, Boy Scouts, YouthLinc, RYLA, Civil Air Patrol, Cedar City Arts, Boys and Girls State and Rotary Youth Exchange. Members of this club have also gotten involved in literacy issues, raised impressive amounts of funds through golf tournaments and the July Jamboree event; and distributed thousands of dictionaries over the past several years. Internationally they have focused on youth, sanitation and water with several projects in India.

In celebration of the Centennial of Rotary’s founding in 1905, the Cedar City Rotary Club organized an effort to create a Veterans Park in their community. The Club raised and donated the needed $50,000 to get the project underway. A Steering Committee, made up mostly of Rotarians, created committees for each of the wars: WWII, Korea, Vietnam, and Iraq/Afghanistan. Robert Mercer, a local architect created the overall design with monuments from each war. The park was dedicated in 2008. In that same year, the club was honored by the Cedar Area Chamber of Commerce with the 2008 Organization for Community Service Award. The Chamber also honored two Rotarians: Jane Norman with the 2008 Outstanding Woman of the Year Award; and, Brian Jorgensen’s business, Mountain West Books and Harmony House with 2008 Progressive Business of the Year Award. Soon after the dedication of the Veterans Park in 2008, Cedar City Rotarians pledged $20,000 to local leaders for the creation of Main Street Park’s entrance signage. Cedar City Rotary Club is truly an example of "service above self" and that a small group of people can change the world!

Rotarians Invited to Give the Gift of Life

2009-12-10T13:29:00.000-08:00

The Utah Rotary District Conference in St. George will be an opportunity to advance the Object of Rotary through fellowship, inspirational addresses, and the discussion of matters of importance to Rotary clubs and Rotary International. May 13-15, 2010 will also showcase Rotary programs and successful district and club activities . . . and Rotarians throughout the state of Utah will have the chance to give "service above self" when they are invited to roll up their sleeve and give blood at a time of the year when the need is escalating because of travel and activities which increase the risk for accidents during holidays and summer months.

Do you know:
* Only 5 percent of eligible donors across the nation donate blood, but the number of transfusions nationwide increases by 9 percent every year.
* Each whole blood donation can help as many as three people. One unit is divided into three parts: red blood cells, platelets, and plasma.

To give blood, you must meet the following criteria:

- Be in generally good health and feeling well.

- Be at least 17 years of age

- Weigh at least 110 pounds

- Pulse: 80 to 100 beats/min and regular

- Your temperature should not exceed 99.5 (37.5c)

- The acceptable range for your blood pressure is 160/90 to 110/60

- The venipuncture site should be free of any lesion or scar of needle pricks indicative of addiction to narcotics or frequent blood donation.

The goal for this conference service project is 75-100 pints (more if you are willing!). Please plan to leave a little of yourself at the Utah Rotary District Conference! Blood donation truly is "service above self" and something only you can give! In the words of Utah Rotary's First Lady Pat Trujillo, "if you're a blood owner . . . you can be a blood donor!"

Conference Tournament for Polio Plus

2009-12-02T09:11:00.000-08:00

In Rotary’s effort to meet the $200 Million Polio Plus Challenge to eradicate this life-threatening and debillitating disease from the earth, the Utah Rotary District Conference will kick off on Thursday, May 13 with a 7:30 a.m. shotgun start at Sunbrook Golf Course, ranked as one of southern Utah's best courses. Certain to challenge the best golfers, while also providing a fun day of play for the novice, Sunbrook features a variety of elements including well-placed water hazards and holes carved out of volcanic lava fields.

According to Jeff Morby, immediate past president of St. George Rotary Club and chairman of the Utah Rotary District Conference Golf Tournament notes, "One team from each of 44 clubs in Utah Rotary District 5420 will generate about $2000 for Polio Plus!" The cost is just $75 per player or $300 per team, with lunch included. Mulligan tickets will also be on sale at a cost of $10 each . . . and the weather on this mid-May weekend is certain to be perfect!!!

Outstanding Accommodations for District Conference

2009-11-26T15:43:00.000-08:00

The new Courtyard by Marriott in sunny St. George includes a luxurious bedding package, complimentary high-speed Internet, stylish decor and a friendly & professional staff. Consistently ranked among the best of 2800 Courtyard by Marriott hotels nationwide for Overall Customer Satisfaction, the Courtyard by Marriott in St. George at the gateway to Zion National Park and only about 120 miles north of the Las Vegas strip. Boasting two pools & two hot tubs, and with room service provided by Iggy's Sports Bar and Grill, the Courtyard St. George is only about a mile from the Gardner Center at Dixie State College and the popular Zion Factory Stores for conference shoppers. To schedule a room for the Utah Rotary District Conference, e-mail June McAfee at june.mcafee@marriott.com or call 435-986-0555 and ask for the "Rotary block." And, its no April Fools joke . . . you need to register by April 1 to get these great rates!

Another option for accommodations while attending the Utah Rotary District Conference is the beautiful new Holiday Inn Express located at 2450 N. Town Center Drive adjacent to the Coral Canyon Golf Course Community, off the I-15 freeway, slightly north of Washington City. Complete with comfortable beds, plasma TV, high speed internet connection, free hot breakfast, outdoor heated pool, a 24-hour fitness center and all within a short drive from spectacular Zion National Park. And pets are welcome (with a small cleaning deposit, of course). To schedule a room (no later than April 12 to get these good rates) for the Utah Rotary District Conference, call 435-986-1313 and ask for the "Rotary block" or e-mail Rotarian trevor.jenson@copperhospitality.com for more information . . . or go to our Holiday Inn Express group website at http://www.ihg.com/h/d/EX/1/en/rates?hotelCode=WSSUT&rateCode=RDC&_IATAno=99502056

Both of these two beautiful facilities are outstanding options for your Utah Rotary District Conference stay!

Music On the Agenda for Rotary Conference

2009-11-19T14:29:00.000-08:00

If you have been a Rotarian for awhile, you probably already know singing in Rotary is a long standing tradition. Harry Ruggles, a Chicago printer and Rotary member #5, detested off-color language, malicious innuendo and classless humor and argued in club meetings for clean language. When the speaker at an evening meeting in 1906 began telling a story Harry had heard and knew the off-color ending was not appropriate for the club he had helped form, he jumped up in the middle of the joke and yelled, "C’mon boys, let’s sing!" then led the club in a boisterous rendition of "Let Me Call You Sweetheart!"

Not only was this the first time Rotarians had ever sung together, it was apparently, the first time a group of businessmen had ever sung together in a meeting of any kind! Harry Ruggles apologized to the embarrassed speaker but from that point on, it was decided all subsequent Rotary meetings should be conducted so any woman could attend without being embarrassed. This has been the unwritten rule ever since, just as the tradition of singing has endured.

You can be certain there will be lots of music at the Utah Rotary District Conference, May 13-15, 2010 in St. George, including a performance by the soon-to-be world-renowned Dixie Rotary Choir made up of members of the five southern Utah Rotary clubs (Cedar City, St. George, Dixie Sunrise, Red Rock and Hurricane). You won’t want to miss a single note!!!

Displays Wanted for District Conference

2009-11-05T15:01:00.000-08:00

Has your club done a special club, community, international or vocational service project this year? Have you had exceptional media coverage? Have one - or several - of your members, your Youth Exchange student or Rotaract / Interact club been recognized in the community, the state or the world? The Utah Rotary District Conference will be the perfect time to show off your club and its accomplishments by bringing a display or a scrapbook. Organizers of the upcoming Rotary District Conference in St. George encourage each of Utah’s 44 clubs to show off all the "service above self" your club and its members have given. Tables will be available . . . all you need to do is bring your display to the Utah Rotary District Conference, May 13-15, 2010 in St. George!

DSC Gardner Center Ready for District Conference Attendees

2009-10-30T13:07:00.000-07:00

The Gardner Center at Dixie State College, named for a large family of Dixie pioneers and current community leaders, is a 16,000 square foot student center complete with snack bar, food court, a large ballroom, breakout rooms and DSC Food Services. Located about a mile from the Courtyard by Marriott Hotel, the Gardner Center at Dixie State College has hosted countless college and community events since it opened in 1994, thanks to the generosity of the descendants of Kenneth N. Gardner and will provide a comfortable and easy-to-access locale for the Utah Rotary District Conference scheduled for May 13-15, 2010.

Rotary in Southern Utah: Red Rock Club

2009-10-22T16:31:00.000-07:00

Red Rock Rotary Club, with Lil Barron as 2009-2010 president, has already made a name for itself in the community and in the world and has accomplished a great deal of "service above self" in its short seven year history.

Club #62221, Washington County’s 4th Rotary club was chartered in 2003 when the Dixie Sunrise Rotary Club voted to share their territory. Somewhere along the way, the "morning" designation was dropped, but the club’s now 39 members still meet at 7:30 a.m. every Wednesday at the Gardner Center on the Dixie State College campus.

Red Rock Rotary Club sponsors and supports the Dixie High School Interact Club. In 2007, members of Red Rock Rotary Club traveled to Mexico with 18 Interacters, where for a week they worked side-by-side at an orphanage building and painting benches and beds, and pouring cement. In their off time, they faced off with children from the orphanage for an impromptu soccer game. The score? Americanos 1 - Mexico 0. "One day we hope to go back to see if we can keep our record," states Lil. Everyone involved with the Mexico trip found it to be "a remarkable experience for us and these amazing teenagers".

Red Rock Rotary Club has also, over a period of two years, raised and distributed grants of between $500 and $1000 each - a total of $12,000 - to children’s charities in Washington County. The current list of recipient organizations includes Big Brothers/Big Sisters, Dixie Reads, the Assistance League of Southern Utah, Diamond Valley Elementary School, Hope Pregnancy Care Center, Leadership Academy, Sunset Elementary School, The HOPE Organization and the School of Life Foundation.

Most recently Red Rock Rotary Club became the proud sponsor of the Red Rock Music Festival held annually on Mothers Day weekend, to provide a venue for the singers and songwriters of Southern Utah to showcase their talents. Money raised during the festival benefits children in Washington County and internationally.

You'll meet members of the Red Rock Rotary Club at the upcoming Utah Rotary District Conference, May 13-15, 2010 in St. George. Come on down!

Southern Utah Golf

2009-10-15T10:55:00.000-07:00

Someone once said, "Golf is a lot of walking, broken up by disappointment and bad arithmetic." Despite the frustration, if you enjoy the game at all, St. George is the place to play it! With eleven outstanding courses and another half dozen within 50 miles, there’s a course in southern Utah for everyone from the novice to the pro!

Golf is one of the three things which put St. George "on the map" along with air conditioning and the I-15 freeway. It was in 1931 (coincidentally the same year St. George Rotary was chartered), when a brief article appeared in the local paper. It didn’t generate a great deal of interest at the time, but in retrospect, it was prophetic, noting: "A golf course is the first step toward making St. George a winter resort. Our climate is unexcelled and there are many places in the valley which could be made into a first-class golf course. If we had a golf course [vacationists] . . . would remain a few days and, as the town becomes better known, would almost certainly establish winter homes here!"

Currently eleven courses - Green Spring, Red Hills, Sky Mountain, Southgate, St. George, Sunbrook, Bloomington, Coral Canyon, SunRiver, The Ledges and Entrada (where Disney’s "High School Musical 2" was filmed) - are in play year round no matter the temperature.

Bring your clubs and plan to get out and enjoy to beautiful weather . . . and your pick of eleven beautiful courses. Come early or stay after the Utah Rotary District Conference, May 13 - 15 and watch for upcoming information on a Rotary Golf Tournament on Thursday, May 13, 2010!

Brian Regan Appears at Tuacahn During Rotary District Conference

2009-10-08T11:38:00.000-07:00

Brian Regan - appearing at Tuacahn Center for the Arts May 14 - 15, 2010 - is a "clean" stand-up comedian whose observational humor reflects on everyday events with frequent references to childhood. His off-center humor has been praised by critics and contemporaries alike. This "dorm room favorite" enjoys a fanbase ranging from teens and college students to middle-aged adults and beyond; and is respected in the comedy community for being a "universal comic." Critics and peers agree, Brian Regan has distinguished himself as one of the premier comedians in the country. The perfect balance of sophisticated writing and physicality, Brian has sold out many theaters nationwide - including three nights in 2009 at Tuacahn.

Releasing two critically acclaimed hour Comedy Central specials and DVD's in as many years – 2008's "The Epitome of Hyperbole," and 2007's "Brian Regan Standing Up" – Brian has set a standard of excellence others continually try to follow.

With his first appearance on "The Late Show with David Letterman" in 1995, Brian solidified his place on the show and recently made his 20th appearance. He is also seen regularly on "Late Night with Conan O'Brien."

Tickets for any of Brian Regan’s three Tuacahn performances are now available through the Tuacahn box office at a cost of $34 - $44 per person. For more information on this or other shows at Tuacahn, call 652-3300 or tollfree to 1-800-746-9882. Tickets may also be purchased online at http://www.tuacahn.org./

Of course, you won't want to miss any of the Utah Rotary District Conference, May 13-15, 2010 . . . but you can sure plan to see Brian Regan on Saturday night AFTER the Utah Rotary District Conference!

Cats Come Alive at Tuacahn in 2010

2009-10-01T11:02:00.000-07:00

Back by popular demand, Tuacahn Summer Theater presents, "Andrew Lloyd Webber’s astoundingly successful musical comes to life once again on the outdoor amphitheatre stage in an event for the entire family.

A junkyard marks the setting for the annual reunion of the Jellicle cats at the Jellicle Ball as the eldest of their special breed of cats, Old Deuteronomy, seeks to select which of the many cats in the neighborhood will be reborn to begin another life. Each of the potential cats, such as Jennyanydots, Rum Tum Tugger, and Bustopher Jones pleads his or her case to Old Deuteronomy. Ultimately, it is Grizabella’s plea for a new life that wins the old cat over. This moment marks one of the show’s highlights when Grizabella sings 'Memory,' one of the most popular and most-recorded songs in the world, to express her determination."

Don’t miss the return engagement of this enchanting tale to Tuacahn as performed by a talented cast of professional dancers and singers. The costumes and settings promise to be nothing short of spectacular.

Tuacahn is Crazy for You in 2010

2009-09-07T11:06:00.000-07:00

According to Tuacahn Center for the Arts: "Winner of the 1992 Tony Award for Best Musical, Crazy For You tells the story of Bobby Child, a well-to-do 1930’s playboy, whose dream in life is to dance. Heir of a New York banking family, Bobby is sent by his mother to Deadrock, Nevada, on an errand to foreclose on the town’s Gaiety Theatre. Once he arrives, however, he manages to fall in love with Polly, the daughter of the theatre’s owner, and becomes involved in a plan to rescue the doomed venue by producing a spectacular show to pay off the building’s mortgage. Will he save the day by rescuing the doomed theatre? And will this city slicker win the heart of the girl he loves?

Experience the magic of this timeless story when Tuacahn’s desert setting is transformed into a decaying Nevada village with the dream of keeping its beloved theatre alive. Memorable Gershwin tunes include "I Can't Be Bothered Now," "Bidin' My Time," "I Got Rhythm," "Naughty Baby," "They Can't Take That Away from Me," "But Not for Me," "Nice Work if You Can Get It," "Embraceable You," and "Someone to Watch Over Me." Crazy for You is a high-energy comedy featuring plot twists, mistaken identity, fabulous dance numbers, and classic Gershwin music. This award-winning musical homage to one of the greatest songwriting teams of the twentieth century will delight the entire family.

Tarzan Comes to Tuacahn in 2010

2009-09-07T10:58:00.000-07:00

According to Tuacahn Center for the Performing Arts, the jungle will come to life in the desert when Tuacahn Amphitheatre presents the regional premiere of Tarzan—the Broadway musical based on the popular 1999 Disney film and beloved story by Edgar Rice Burroughs.

This classic tale begins when an early 1900 shipwreck leaves an infant orphaned on the West African shore. The helpless baby is taken under the protection of a gorilla tribe and becomes part of their family. When he eventually encounters his first human--Jane Porter, a curious young explorer--both of their worlds transform forever.

Tarzan features the songs from Disney’s film as well as nine new songs written specifically for the Broadway production. The show’s Grammy® Award-winning musical score, written by singer/songwriter Phil Collins, propels the energy and imagination of this literary favorite, making this a "must see" at the Tuacahn Amphitheatre in 2010.

You'll want to come back to southern Utah after the Utah Rotary District Conference, May 13-15, 2010 to see "Tarzan" at Tuacahn Center for the Arts.

Tuacahn Announces 2010 Summer Shows

2009-09-07T09:24:00.000-07:00

"I was awestruck," wrote Orval Hafen, upon first seeing the area now home to the Tuacahn Center for the Arts. He and his wife, Ruth, bought an eighty-acre parcel in the box canyon and built a cabin below the pristine red rocks. Describing the scene at the turn of the 20th century, he stated: "There before me lay a scene of indescribable beauty: wild, primitive, unspoiled, largely unknown, waiting to be enjoyed, waiting to inspire folks." Within these "towering red sandstone cliffs," he desired that "others [might one day] share this beauty and drink of the inspiration that is here."

Orval Hafen’s vision came one step closer to reality in 1993 when Doug Stewart, noted playwright and St. George resident, stumbled upon the spot as he was searching for a location for an outdoor amphitheatre in the St. George area. "The stunning beauty and perfect surroundings stopped me in my tracks," Stewart recalled. "I was brought to tears when I first stood there, and after taking it in for some time – envisioning an amphitheatre and a stage with an awesome backdrop of 1,500 foot red rock cliffs, and hearing the sounds of music echoing from the canyon walls – I literally flew back to town and straight to the county recorder’s office to see who the land belonged to."

From that magical moment in the canyon, Tuacahn Center for the Arts became a reality as a 42,000 square foot facility featuring a 330-seat indoor theater, dance studio, black-box theater, a recital hall, costume and scene shops, studios and classrooms, a gift shop, and a 1920-seat outdoor amphitheatre - the home of "Broadway in the Desert." In its 2010 summer theater season, Tuacahn will perform "Tarzan," "Cats" and "Crazy for You" from June 4 - October 15.

The summer shows will not be playing when Rotarians are here for the 2010 Utah Rotary District Conference, but stay tuned for information about one Tuacahn show you'll want to see while you're here May 13-15, 2010. It's one you won't want to miss!!!

Rotary in Southern Utah: St. George

2009-08-26T20:34:00.000-07:00

There is no doubt, St. George Rotary Club has added to the quality of life in the state's most southwestern community, the world and Utah’s District 5420 in many positive ways during its 78-year history. Chartered by Rotary International in 1931 (when the Cedar City Rotary Club voted to share its territory), Club #1079 is one of the oldest and most respected clubs in Utah. From its membership, five District Governors have been selected including PDG Eldon McArthur (1987-88), PDG Douglas Quayle (1989-90), Sterling Spafford (1996-97), Jim Coleman (2000-01) and currently Utah District Governor Gilbert Trujillo (2009-10).

With a strong spirit of "service above self," the members of St. George Rotary Club have initiated numerous projects in the nearly eight decades of their existence to "build goodwill and better friendships."

Over the years, SGR has been involved in several International Service projects, including collecting 500 pair of eyeglasses for the visually impaired in the Philippines; purchasing almost 200 wheelchairs for men, women and children with disabilities living in third world countries; collecting and shipping boxes of shoes to Mexico; purchasing a school bus for young men in Thailand with an RI matching grant; and, sending Allen Hilton and Jim Coleman into the world as GSE team leaders. The most recent international project involves collecting money for the purchase and installation of hundreds of stoves to save lives in Guatemala, where women and children die at an alarming rate due to smoke inhalation and burns.

SGR has also built informational kiosks at trail heads throughout the St. George community; funded Safety Town for pre-schoolers and the Sterling Scholar program for accomplished high school students; supported YouthLINC; nourished capable, patriotic leadership in dozens of teens through participation in Boys and Girls State; developed a successful annual 4-Way Test Essay Contest; and in six years, has distributed 10,700 dictionaries to 3rd grade students in Washington County schools. SGR was an active participant in the creation of the Encampment Mall where club members rolled out more than seven acres of sod to create a popular gathering place for students at Dixie State College; and, with the City of St. George in the creation of the Rotary SK8 Park.

Unquestionably, the most ambitious project undertaken by SGR is the Dixie Rotary Bowl, now in its 24th year as the "premiere post-season junior college bowl game in America." Since its inception, more than $1 million dollars have been raised to benefit participating schools from all over the United States meeting head-to-head on the gridiron.

Through it all, SGR has a strong history of support for EREY; Paul Harris Fellows number 134 and in the past five years the club has received three simplified grants and four matching grants from RI.

In 2009-10, Ken Sizemore is serving as the 79th president of the 81-member St. George Rotary Club. Meetings are held each Monday at noon at the St. George Holiday Inn where members enjoy fellowship and finding new ways to make the community and the world a better place.

The Best of Shakespeare Offered in Southern Utah

2009-08-05T18:04:00.001-07:00

Shakespeare rocks . . . and so do Charles Dickens, Jane Austen and Alfred Hitchcock, all featured in the 2010 season of the Utah Shakespearean Festival, on the campus of Southern Utah University in Cedar City.

The 2010 Summer Season will feature six shows rotating in two theaters from June 28 to August 28:

"Macbeth," haunted by witches prophecies and spurred by his wife’s ambitions and his own taste for power, dares to twist and tempt fate in one of the world’s first psychological thrillers.

"The Merchant of Venice" is a thought-provoking masterpiece of love and humor, racism and greed which explores issues of justice and mercy, the complexity of humanity and the nature of forgiveness and love.

"Much Ado About Nothing" is a vibrant and comic celebration of life and romance involving lovers for which you will cheer when these lively couples finally learn the realities of life, love and themselves - through lessons learned from an assortment of villains, clowns, and eccentric characters.

"Pride and Prejudice" involves a plot by desperate parents to find eligible suitors for their five beautiful daughters. Fully capturing the spirit of the classic book by Jane Austen, this adaptation is delightful, romantic, and fun for the entire family.

Alfred Hitchcock’s "The 39 Steps" blends the "master of mystery" with Monty Python. A hilarious mystery spoof involving murder, betrayal, and espionage, this is one of the funniest plays to ever hit Broadway. See if you can figure out whodunit as this cast of four transforms into over 150 farcical characters!

"Great Expectations" is a world premiere musical based on one of history’s most popular novels involving the adventures of young Pip and his struggles and triumphs to find his place in the world. Charles Dickens’ timeless prose is interwoven with soaring and rich music.

During the fall season (September 16 - October 16 ) the Emmy-award winning theater group will present three additional shows including "The Adventures of Pericles" a rich tale of a young man’s search for thrills, riches and love while the gods seem to be against him as his loves die and his friends deceive him. In the end . . . well, you’ll have to find out for yourself.

In "Greater Tuna" you’ll meet the on-air personalities of OKKK Radio as they bring you the daily happenings in Tuna, Texas, complete with UFOs, Smut Snatchers, and Puppy Pushers, and where laughter fills every thirty-second sound bite.

And, USF’s final offering in 2010 is "The Diary of Anne Frank," the Pulitzer Prize-winning play which testifies - not to the brutality of war and hatred - but to the unshakeable spirit of a young girl and to the hopes and loves of a family and a people trying to hold to their faith.

Sorry . . . you won’t be able to enjoy any Shakespeare during the Utah Rotary District Conference on May 13-15, 2010! Guess you’ll just have to come back!

And the Winners Are . . .

2009-07-30T19:36:00.000-07:00

Rotarians Ronald Jensen from the Murray Club and Dwayne Woolley from the West Jordan Club will be the guests of Utah District Governor Gil Trujillo and Rotary’s First Lady Pat Trujillo at their home in St. George on a weekend of their choosing.

As the first to pre-register for the Utah District Conference on May 13-15, 2010 in - where else? - St. George, Jensen and Woolley and their spouses will enjoy a leisurely few days with their feet up, soaking in the swimming pool - or touring the area with Gil behind the wheel seeing all the beautiful sites already listed on http://www.utahrotaryconference.blogspot.com./ It is likely, the Trujillo's guests will also enjoy some of Gil’s famous international cuisine. Congratulations to these two "plan ahead" Rotarians!

Meet the New Governor and His Lady

2009-07-23T07:21:00.000-07:00

After three years of moving up the ranks of leadership in Rotary’s Utah District 5420, Gilbert Trujillo of the Bloomington suburb of St. George, has been inducted into the state’s top spot as 94th District Governor overseeing the activities of Utah’s 44 clubs and more than 2000 members.

As the fifth district governor selected from among the nearly 90-members of St. George Rotary Club, Trujillo will direct Utah Rotary District 5420 to meet the goals of Rotary International as he encourages all Utah Rotarians to more fully engage in service in their club, community, state and in the world. He also hopes to coordinate an international project involving all 44 clubs working together for greater impact; develop a workable plan for the active recruitment of young men and women leaders into Rotary clubs around the state; continue in support of RI’s global partnership goal to eradicate polio in the world; and, encourage Rotarians throughout the Beehive State to dig deep into their pockets to fund water projects to bring clean drinking water to many of more than 2.6 billion people in 3rd world countries who currently live without this precious commodity.

Trujillo also wants to promote micro-credit programs in impoverished populations worldwide enabling people to make a living with an investment of as little as $30; and to continue supporting literacy programs in the state and worldwide.

“The problems associated with illiteracy affect those in developing counties as well as wealthy nations with universal education,” notes Trujillo. “Literacy is a stepping stone out of poverty and can help people provide an income to improve their lives and the lives of their children.”

The Utah District Governor’s Rotary career began in 1989 as a charter member of the Delta Rotary Club where he served as president (1990-91) and hosted Rotary youth exchange students from the Philippines, Brazil and France.

After retirement from General Telephone and Telegraph (now Verizon Wireless) in 1992, Trujillo and his wife Patricia relocated to St. George where he was recruited for membership in the St. George Rotary Club, also coming up the ranks of leadership, including service as president. He also served as team leader for a Group Study Exchange to Argentina, a unique cultural and vocational exchange opportunity for people in the early years of their professional careers.

In recent years as Rotary has grown statewide, the 72-year-old Bloomington resident was selected to serve as an Assistant District Governor which gave him experience and the courage to throw his hat in the ring for his new role as District Governor.

As District Governor, he has the option of having his home club host the annual Utah Rotary District Conference which is expected to bring approximately 500 Rotarians and spouses to the area for three days in May, 2010.

Trujillo is a native of Taos, New Mexico. In addition to his legendary Rotary mindset of “service above self,” Trujillo enjoys cooking international cuisine. Gil and his wife Pat are parents to seven, grandparents to 19 and also have 3 great-grandchildren. The bilingual former Marine’s 30-year career with GTE took him and his family to live in faraway places around the world, including Great Britain, Germany, Italy, Spain and Greece. Currently, he is the owner/manager of Rent-A-Video in downtown St. George.

Our Greatest Snow on Earth!

2009-07-16T05:32:00.000-07:00

Snow Canyon State Park, with its splendidly eroded red and white Navajo sandstone contrasted by large masses of black lava, has been a favorite backdrop for Hollywood movie hits such as Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, The Electric Horseman, and Jeremiah Johnson and for countless TV commercials.

Named for Erastus and Lorenzo Snow, two early settlers to the area - rather than for the fluffy white precipitation which rarely falls there - Snow Canyon State Park also attracts hikers, rock climbers and photographers to its extinct cinder cones, lava tubes, and lava flows where the terrain is easy to climb and provides numerous vantage points for photography. In addition, sand dunes are scattered around the edges of the valley, and several locations on the enclosing cliffs have examples of ancient Indian petroglyphs. Discovered in 1850 by local cattle ranchers and originally named Dixie State Park, the canyon was designated as a Utah state park in 1959.

Wildlife in Snow Canyon includes three endangered species: the Gila monster, peregrine falcon, and desert tortoise. Small fences to keep the ground-dwelling creatures from accidentally wandering onto roads can be seen across Snow Canyon and along many highways in the St. George area. Other notable wildlife include the giant desert hairy scorpion, coyote, Mojave sidewinder, red-spotted toad, Utah banded gecko, and the side-blotched lizard, among many others.

Located only a few minutes from downtown St. George, Snow Canyon State Park is one of Washington County’s most popular tourist attractions and a must-see for Rotarians visiting the area during the week of the Utah Rotary District Conference on May 13-15, 2010.

America's Favorite National Park

2009-07-08T20:24:00.000-07:00

In 1882, Clarence Dutton, an associate of explorer John Wesley Powell, wrote, "Nothing can exceed the beauty of Little Zion Valley. In its proportions it is about equal to Yosemite, but in the nobility and beauty of the sculptures, there is no comparison. No wonder the fierce Mormon zealot who named it, was reminded of the Great Zion, on which his mind was bent - 'of a house not built with hands, eternal in the heavens'."

In 1909, the designation of Mukuntuweap National Monument by President William Howard Taft, came as a big surprise to most Washington County residents. The name of Mukuntuweap was unpopular locally and hard for visitors to say, so in 1918, the acting director of the newly created National Park Service changed the park's name to Zion and in 1919, the U. S. Congress changed the monument to a national park. Thus began a process which would eventually give Dixie its international reputation for scenic beauty and its largest industry - tourism.

Located at the junction of the Colorado Plateau, Great Basin, and Mojave Desert regions, Zion National Park's unique geography and variety of life zones allow for unusual plant and animal diversity. Numerous plant species as well as 289 species of birds, 75 mammals (including 19 species of bat), and 32 types of reptiles inhabit Zion’s 229-square miles (145,598 acres) of desert, riparian, woodland, and coniferous forest.

Zion National Park also includes the 1.1 mile Zion Mount Carmel Tunnel which was constructed in the late 1920's. At the time the tunnel was dedicated, on July 4, 1930, it was the longest tunnel in the United States. The Zion Tunnel's purpose (along with the Zion Mount Carmel Highway) was to create direct access to Bryce Canyon and Grand Canyon from Zion National Park.

In June 2009, a survey by TripAdvisor named Zion National Park as the #1 favorite national park in the country. The travel group questioned 3,000 vacationers all across America about their favorite parks and they put Zion on top.

Even if your plans will not allow you to spend extended time in Zion National Park, consider driving through on your way to or from the Utah Rotary District Conference, May 13-15, 2010. It may be a little out of your way, but is well worth the effort!

The Desert Blossoms as the Rose

2009-07-03T06:36:00.000-07:00

The story is told that Wilhelmina Cannon, a homesick young pioneer woman and new bride, longed for the green hills and trees of her home in the eastern U. S. As she prepared to leave her home and husband behind in the harsh desert of SW Utah, David Cannon begged her to reconsider. "Show me one thing of beauty in the whole area and I’ll stay," responded Wilhelmina. David delivered on that challenge with a handful of sego lilies, plucked from the sparse, dry terrain around St. George. Wilhelmina’s heart was softened and they remained to become leaders in the community and parents of a prominent family.

Finding beauty in an area known for its "brackish water, blowing sand, pesky insects and unbearable heat" has been, over nearly 150 years, a challenge for many. But seemingly as a reward for perserverance, every spring and summer, the unforgiving desert produces a splendid show of wildflowers and for a short period, perennials are in brilliant color!

The normal colors of the desert - with little rain and extremely high temperatures - are browns, mauves, pastel greens and grays; but during the springtime, the dull desert palette becomes filled with brilliant shades of orange, magenta, yellow, white and red.

Although it is an annual event, the desert’s wildflower season is never the same from one year to the next based on weather conditions. If the winter has too much or little rain, or if the temperature is too warm or cold, the seeds of desert annuals will remain dormant or bloom in fewer numbers. Only when the conditions are near-perfect will the desert produce a spectacular show. A decade may pass with less than fruitful wildflower displays, but when the conditions are just right, the wildflowers fill the landscapes in a phenomenal riot of color.

You may have to look closely when visiting during the Utah Rotary District Conference May 13-15, 2010, but take a minute as you pass through our magnificent desert to find "just one thing of beauty." You may be pleasantly surprised at what you'll see all around you.

Meet One of Our Most Famous Residents

2009-06-26T13:22:00.000-07:00

If you have wondered why the countdown clock (above) on the Utah Rotary District Conference blog features a tortoise on the golf course, here is the explanation!

Washington County, as an environment, is both blessed and cursed as the unique circumstances of the terrain find three ecosystems converging in this, the state’s most southwestern county. Where the Mojave Desert, Great Basin and the Colorado Plateau come together, there is a large array of plants and animals, some found nowhere else in the world and many which are protected by the Endangered Species Act.

The most famous of these protected species is the desert tortoise, able to live in temperatures exceeding 140 degrees because of its ability to dig underground burrows to escape the intense heat. At least 95% of its life is spent in burrows which also create a subterranean environment beneficial to other reptiles, mammals, birds and invertebrates.

The gentle and unassuming Gopherus agassizii, native to the Mojave and Sonoran deserts, was at the center of a political fire storm in the mid-1990's when the federal government mandated Washington County to protect both the animal and thousands of acres of its habitat. After several years of controversy, land swaps and millions of dollars spent on both sides of the issue, a Habitat Conservation Plan was finalized and approved, which called for the creation of the Red Cliffs Desert Reserve.

The reserve is 62,000 acres of protected red rock desert where hiking, biking, horseback riding and other activities are allowed, but which protects the tortoise and other desert critters and prohibits forever the development of this spectacular land.

While it is unlikely you will actually see a desert tortoise during the Utah Rotary District Conference, May 13-15, 2010 . . . you may hear an occasional reference to one of our most famous residents so we wanted you to be familiar with his name and face!

Hike, Bike and Enjoy the Red Rocks

2009-06-17T16:14:00.000-07:00

When he first saw the terrain in and around what is now St. George, early Mormon scout Parley P. Pratt was stunned and reported to LDS Church President Brigham Young that the area "shows no signs of water or fertility . . . a wide expanse of chaotic matter presented itself, huge hills, sandy deserts; cheerless, grassless plains, perpendicular rocks, loose barren clay, dissolving beds of sandstone . . . lying in inconceivable confusion - in short, a country in ruins, dissolved by the pelting of the storm of ages, or turned inside out, upside down in terrible convulsions in some former age."

Famed Utah author and historian Juanita Brooks noted, "it looks like the good Lord took everything left over from the creation, dumped it here, then set it on fire!"

Most visitors to this area already know to bring a camera, but if you enjoy the experience of exploring on foot, our red rock country is also a hikers - and bikers - paradise! There are worldclass hikes in Zion National Park (the #1 favorite national park based on a recent nationwide poll), Snow Canyon State Park, on Pine Valley Mountain and in the Red Cliffs Desert Reserve. For those who want to get outside, exercise and enjoy our exquisite red rock terrain, but don’t want to work too hard for the pleasure, the area is also famous for miles and miles of paved or natural trails which intersect and connect at a variety of locations.

As you prepare for your visit in St. George on May 13-15, 2010 remember to bring walking or hiking shoes, sunblock, a hat and bottled water because hiking or biking in Washington County is certain to be another high point of your Utah District Conference weekend.

". . . But, It's A Dry Heat!"

2009-06-10T17:48:00.000-07:00

It is well documented that the three modern innovations responsible for the world’s discovery of St. George as a great place to live and raise a family . . . or to retire are: (1) the I-15 freeway, (2) golf, and (3) air conditioning.

OK, we admit it! It gets plenty HOT here in July and August! J. Golden Kimball, an early Mormon church leader expressed it best after a visit to the area when he told local residents, "if I had property in St. George and property in Hell, I’d sell my property in St. George and live in Hell." In fact, we hold the state’s record high temperature set July 4, 2007 when the thermostat hit an official 118 degrees - but it also gets cold (although we don’t get much sympathy from our friends to the north). The lowest temperature on record for St. George was -11 degrees in 1937, but usually the area boasts mild winters and infrequent traces of snowfall which rarely stays on the ground for more than a day (and NEVER needs to be shoveled off the driveway).

In the summertime - beyond that frequent and irritating question . . ."is it hot enough for you?" - local residents don’t complain much about the weather because in this semi-arid climate, we enjoy 300 days of bright sunshine, low annual precipitation (our low humidity makes our high summer temperatures almost bearable), clean air and a wide daily temperature range.

In the month of May, Utah Rotary District Conference attendees should find the weather comfortably in the mid-80 degree range during the day, dropping to a mild 65-70 degrees in the evening. If its warmer than that during your visit on May 13-15, 2010 . . . just remember, it’s a dry heat!

Are You From Dixie?

2009-05-20T08:54:00.000-07:00

Washington County has many nicknames such as "red rock country" or "the other Palm Springs," but is most frequently referred to as "Dixie." References to "Dixie" are everywhere in Washington County. For instance, health care is provided at Dixie Regional Medical Center; students attend Dixie Middle School, Dixie High School or Dixie State College; and the St. George Chamber of Commerce has long promoted the area as "Utah’s Dixie."

Visitors to the area often ask "why ‘Dixie’?" According to the 1996 A History of Washington County: From Isolation to Destination by Douglas D. Alder and Karl F. Brooks, "the word ‘Dixie’ in southern Utah is used almost synonymously in relation to Washington County, usually linked to the pioneer industry of growing cotton, but also emphasizes the climate which is distinctly different from the rest of the state of Utah and the lower altitude - some 2500 feet below the nearby rim of the Great Basin where much of the rest of the population of the state resides."

In the long run, the most simple definition of ‘Dixie’ comes from a song written by Roene di Fiore and performed routinely at meetings of St. George Rotary Club where St. George City Mayor Dan McArthur is a member:

Are you from Dixie?
I said from Dixie.
Where the fields of cotton beckon to me.

We’re glad to see ya
To say, "how be ya?"
And the friends we’re longin’ to see.

If you’re from Santa Clara, Washington or St. George, fine,
Anywhere below the Iron County line,
Then you’re from Dixie.
Hurray for Dixie
‘Cause I’m from Dixie, too!"

Welcome to the 2010 Utah District Conference Blogspot

2009-02-22T14:46:00.000-08:00

We are counting down to an exciting weekend when Rotarians from all over the state will gather in St. George for the Utah Rotary District 5420 Conference (2009-2010). Mark your calendar for Thursday, May 13 through Saturday, May 15, 2010 and plan to join us in Utah's Dixie for an outstanding conference to include great speakers, great workshops and plenary sessions; great entertainment, great food, displays and updates on Rotary programs. Roll up your sleeves for a great service project, bring your clubs for the Thursday morning golf tournament at a spectacular course, and join in a fun-for-all "Rotary's Got Talent" show. Watch this blogpage for a new post every Thursday counting down to Thursday, May 13. You won't want to miss a minute of this outstanding weekend!