By Brandi McGrath Kong, Director of Member Services
A few years ago, under the leadership of 2022-2023 International President Gretchen Nielsen, Sertoma rededicated itself to bringing elements of fun to the annual International Conference. As the premier reunion of Sertomans from across the U.S. and Canada, this event allows members to come together each year to exchange ideas, connect, celebrate and hopefully, enjoy the host city. On October 18-19, 2024, we will be headed to the beautiful Beeman Hotel in Dallas, Texas. Let’s see what the “Big D” has to offer.
The Conference
Welcome Party: Saddle up, partners! It's time to wrangle in some Halloween fun, Sertoma style, with our Cowboy Halloween Party! Picture this: a wild west extravaganza where the spookiest season meets the rugged charm of the Lone Star State. Grab your spurs and dust off your cowboy boots because we're fixin' to throw the spookiest shindig this side of the Rio Grande.We're rustlin' up some grub (light appetizers), slingin' drinks at the saloon (cash bar), and wranglin' up games and good times for all y'all cowpokes!
Banquet Dinner: Commemorate the very best of Sertoma when we come together for our final event of the 2024 Conference, our beloved Banquet Dinner. We will recognize achievements in club excellence with the Pinnacle Awards and unveil this year’s inductee into the Sertoma Hall of Fame. We’ll also celebrate our 2024-2025 International President Bea Gabany.
The Hotel
There are a few amenities that give our guests the perfect opportunity to hang out while staying at the Beeman. Relax in the indoor heated pool, meet up for drinks and appetizers in the onsite lounge & bar, and enjoy the gorgeous outdoor patio area. You can even sneak in a quick workout in the 24-hour fitness center or do a little bit of work using the onsite business center (okay, not fun, maybe necessary…).
The Area
Located within seven miles of our host hotel, you’ll find a plethora of popular tourist destinations that you can visit while in Dallas. Just across the highway is the George W. Bush Presidential Center. Visit the Old Red Museum, which houses the city’s artifacts and archives in a historic courthouse from the 1890s. The Dealey Plaza and Grassy Knoll are points of interest for those interested in the history of President John F. Kennedy.
Looking for a browsing experience? Make sure to check out the Deep Ellum neighborhood, Dallas Farmers Market, Dallas Art District or Northpark Center. Nature lovers will want to plan to visit the Dallas World Aquarium, bustling Klyde Warren Park, or Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens. Learn more about these and other nearby sites here.
Don’t forget that there is plenty of amazing food to experience in Dallas. There are dozens of offerings within walking distance (1 mile) of the hotel, or you can check out the Dallas Restaurant Guide for even more options.
Dallas has a few different programs that can help you save on dining, shopping and experiences while in the city:
Hotel reservations and early registration for the 2024 International Conference close on September 26. For more information on the event, to reserve your room, or to register, visit sertoma.org/2024Conference.