Presentation

Our presentation at the District Conference went very smoothly. We were supposed to use 20 minutes, and we actually went 25, but everyone was so happy with our presentation that it was OK. I was sporting a traditional Japanese Kimono complete with ceremonial Hakama. There's something so traditional and time honored about kimonos that I felt special wearing it.

First we introduced ourselves. I had been singing "Tourianse", a childrens folk song, at most of our club introductions, and was under orders from Tachikawa San to sing it at my introduction here. I sang it at the beginning of my introduction, then the team introduced themselves.

Next we played our Arizona slide show while David played his guitar and sang a Western song. He does a wonderful job of it, and everyone loved it.

Then we each took a turn and answered the question: What's been your biggest impression of Japan? We get asked that a lot as we travel around the country. We each had a picture or two of our time here in Niigata, so we put something in our PowerPoint presentation to go along with our thoughts.

I spoke about religeous differences, or, I should really say similarities. Kenja spoke about the way the Japanese provide almost all of their own food, and the genuine hospitality of the people here. Michael talked about the Niigata Albirex Soccer game and the obvious pride Niigata takes in their team. He then led the 1,500attendees is the Albirex cheer. The crowd loved it. Claudia spoke about everday things, and the similarities between the Japanese culture and her Latin culture, expecially as regards to the importance they place on family. David spoke on the Rotary foreign exchange programs, and the emphasis that seems to be here in Japan on educating their children.

Next, I presented Tachikawa San with a gift from us, and Governor Watanabe with the gift that District 5510 Governor Tom Burns sent for him--a beautiful hand made Kachina Doll.

Lastly I offered words of gratitude to the District, the clubs that hosted us, and the families that opened their homes to us. We ended with the song, "Itsu Made Mo". Several of the members of the audience sang along with us. Claudia cried through most of the 2nd and 3rd verses, but the rest of us got through it ok.

I cannot imagine a District that could do more for their GSE Team than Niigata District 2560 has done for us! They have treated us like royalty, and been sensitive to our every need. Thank you Niigata! We will try to live up to your hospitality when your team visits us next year.

Dan Hill