In July 2005, Dawn Hanson chaperoned Spenser Hanson and Chris Harris to the Sister Cities International Youth Conference in Spokane,
Washington. The conference had approximately 20 kids from across the world in attendance.

During the conference the youth had speakers discussing cultural awareness, journal writing, and communication skills. They also
watched dragon boat races on the Spokane River, visited a rodeo, participated in a Japanese Tea Ceremony, and played a game of
baseball. The youth also were fortunate enough to hear an Indian chief speak about his culture and his fear of the loss of his
culture’s identity. This was very eye opening for the youth, and seemed to be a highlight of the conference for many of those in attendance.

In addition to the workshops, the youth spent their free time playing games, listening to music, and eating! The long lasting
benefit from the conference is the friendships that were formed. The youth made friends from all over the world during this time. Many
of the youth are already planning on attending next year’s Global Summit in Washington DC.