Preparing for the National Conference
We're excited about the upcoming US National Conference! Over 800 people from over 150 UB churches in the United States and Canada registered, so we'll have quite a large crowd. Should make for some wonderful singing! Here is some information which will help you prepare for the conference.
Lodging
Since we ran out of rooms at Sawmill Creek, many registrants will stay at other nearby hotels. Thank you for your patience and understanding, especially if you're one of the people affected. This is the first time we've done a national conference of this magnitude. Contact Marsha Baker, the Bishop's Administrative Assistant, with any questions. The toll-free number is: 888-622-3019.
Check-In
As you approach the main lodge, the Front Desk will be at an entrance to the left. Persons staying at Sawmill Creek can check-in at least by 4 pm. Your room may well be ready before that.
The entrance to the right, leading into Wilderness Hall, is where you register for the conference. Information booths are located on each side of the lobby; both will be used to register people as they arrive, starting at noon on Thursday. A goody-bag awaits you.
What to Wear
Keep it casual, modest, and nice. Jeans and shorts are fine. Don't expect to see many ties.
Nametags
When you check-in, you will receive a nametag. You need to wear that to all of the sessions.
Look for the Yellow Vests
When you arrive, you'll see various people wearing yellow vests. These are conference staff, and they're ready to help you with any questions and needs you might have.
Saturday Morning Workshops
Turn in the enclosed workshop list when you register. Please list the number of people from your family or group who will attend each workshop. This will help us determine which workshops to put in which rooms. Seating will be limited. If you arrive at the workshop location and find all the seats taken, be prepared to head to your "second choice" workshop.
Golf Outing
Terry Smith is in charge of the golf outing. If you plan to play, please contact Terry before you arrive. He needs to pair people up evenly, and it will be too complicated if not done in advance. Email Terry. Office phone: (419) 666-3020. Terry is Minister of Spiritual Care at Mainstreet UB church in Walbridge, Ohio.
Internet Access
Internet access is available in the rooms at Sawmill Creek for an additional $8 per night (it's free in most of the other motels we're using). However, there is free wireless access in Sawmill Creek's lobby and ballrooms.
Meals
If you registered online, please update any changes regarding the meals for which you will be present. We need to know that, so we can give an accurate food count.
Meeting with Dennis Zimmerman
Dennis Zimmerman, whose company manages the denominational pension fund, will be available to talk to ministers about their own pension resources. You can set up a time to meet with him during the conference by calling his office at: (800) 426-2205. Ask for Martha or Denny. You can set up an appointment after you arrive, but Denny would prefer advance notice, so he can prepare some things for you. The Moose room is where you can find him at the conference.
Free Time
Both Friday and Saturday afternoons are free. Nothing is scheduled between noon and the 7 pm evening service. This is a great time to head to Cedar Point.
Prayer Room
The Elk room has been designated as a prayer room throughout the conference.
Cell Phones
We ask that you please turn off your cell phone, or put it on vibrate, during the meetings (services, workshops, business sessions).
Exhibitors
Various exhibitors will have tables set up in the conference hall. The United Brethren Bookstore will also have a table with a variety of UB materials, plus books specifically recommended by the Bishop.
What to Bring
- A pen and notebook.
- A teachable, positive, expectant spirit.
Check-Out on Sunday
Check-out time is 11 am. Since the morning service goes until 11:00, we suggest you check-out after breakfast and before the service starts.
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