Q2 conference promises to be a humdinger

THE SECOND QUARTER conference for the Optimist International Caribbean District 2014-2015 year is shaping up to be a game-changer in celebration, fun, learning and fellowship.
The regional confab for Optimists is scheduled for the Hibiscus Lodge Hotel in Ocho Rios running from February 27 to March 1 will see a new suite of workshops and other activities unveiling over the weekend.
Kicking off the conference weekend on Friday evening is "Sentimental Memories" at the Ocho Rios Pier. Hosted by the clubs of Zones 8 and 9, this old school style Governor's Reception will see delegates donning their favorite outfits from "back in the days of bell foot pants and afro".
On Saturday, it will be time for business, learning and celebration with headline presentations from Certified District Trainer, Past International Vice President Optimist Adrian Elcock and Builder of Excellence Optimist Kevin Grant.
Other stalwarts such as PIVP Optimist Sonia Anderson will share training duties with newbies including club president Optimist Stephen Fearon who will on Sunday tackle the topic "Leading and Implementing Change and Innovation".
But before that, on Saturday the award winning Jamaican poet and author A-dZiko Simba Gegele will bring her special brand of writing and performance to the conference. A discussion on what Caribbean teens are reading in 2015 will follow A-dziko's reading.
Yet another event that is a must-be-at is the 'Read My Lips Optimist Edition'. That is a mime and lip sync session which, according to organizer DST Jason, is one of the reasons you will kick yourself for missing conference this year. Don't be kicking yourself now.
Q2 conferences are never complete without the awards show and that will be held on Saturday evening. Hosted by Immediate Past Governor, Optimist Nutilia Simon, this year's Dinner and Awards Banquet and Ball will be an affair of extra-special celebrations. The winners circle from the Optimist International Awards and Incentives programme will be definitely be filled with joy, excitement, pride and fulfillment.
Feel the energy of Q2 and come celebrate, come teach, come learn, come have fun February 27 - March 1 in Ocho Rios.