The District 30 Spring Conference was held in Amana, Iowa from April 9 though 11, 2010. This event was combined with the Four Rivers Sail and Power Squadron's Change of Watch which was held in the evening. We had perfect weather for this event. The whole weekend rewarded us with sunny skies and mild temperatures. We had about 26 people for the Spring Conference and 55 people for the Four Rivers Change of Watch in the evening.

Many of us got to stay in the Guest House Motel while others stayed in an adjacent motel. Friday we checked in and headed to the Hospitality Room hosted by Four Rivers. They put out an amazing spread of innumerous items to munch on. They came with two refrigerators of their own to keep things fresh on the table. The pickled asparagus was delicious. We were on our own for dinner. There were three restaurants in town and they all served superb meals. On Saturday morning we had an early breakfast at the Ronneburg Restaurant. The food kept coming and coming. The Council meeting started at 0830. Business was conducted and we took a recess at 0930 for two presentations. Bill Morris presented a GPS Seminar which most attended. It was an excellent seminar and very well presented. John Harris of Boulder Valley Sail and Power Squadron gave a presentation on "On-The-Water" Training that he and other members of BVSPS are preparing. They are going to teach boating to some new members on a nearby lake. They acquired a small cabin boat and will be using it for the base for their training. This course is designed to teach the skipper, the navigator and the sail trimmer. Safety is key in the material that was prepared. They are off to a good start with the material that they prepared. The meeting then broke for lunch and the attendees broke into smaller groups and went to eat.....more amazing food.

We reconvened at 0100 with the Conference called to order. Business was conducted and then D/C Ken Danley presented awards to various members. The meeting was turned over to V/C Dave Hinders, SN. Dave gave a Power Point presentation which highlighted the key points in the Chiefs message. Dave then proceeded with the District Change of Watch. He swore in Richard Des Camps as the new District Commander and then swore in the remainder of the Bridge. The Conference was closed as was the Council Meeting.

We returned to the Ronneburg for dinner and for the Four Rivers Sail and Power Squadron Change of Watch. Some unfinished business from the Conference was conducted as well. P/D/C Ken Danley presented P/C Don Campbell with a plaque honoring him and his many years of service as Vessel Examiner Chairperson for many years. V/C Dave Hinders swore in Kirk Woltman as Squadron Commander and then proceeded to give the oath to the remainder of the bridge.

This was truly one of the most enjoyable Spring Conferences I've been to. The company was great, the weather was unbelievable, the Amana Colonies were so friendly to us and the food was simply unbelievable.

P/D/C Gus Elia, JN