Annual Gathering 2011 moves location to Redwood Shores

     May 19-22, 2011 will see our NCNC Annual Gathering at the Hotel Sofitel San Francisco Bay at Redwood Shores.
     "The Conference Council and the Annual Gathering Planning Team are very excited about the greater flexibility and affordability of this location," says Roy Mosley, who led the process of considering other sites for 2011 Annual Gathering and worked closely with the Sofitel hotel.
     "Especially for families, there can be a substantial reduction in cost.   There will also be many more opportunities for commuters, optional meals and flexible attendance."
     With an overall theme of "Mandates of the Gospel" and a planned continuation of the sacred conversation on race, the Conference Council decided to try this new option for one year as a way to be open to the Spirit.  "We want to see if this move will entice folks who have never been able to come before," said Mosley.  "Also we want to encourage Annual Gathering regulars to celebrate the sacredness of our getting together as much as the sacredness of the place Asilomar."
     Call it "new wine skins!"
     Registration will include some meals, but others will be optional, including breakfasts. Folks are encouraged to stay and eat at the Sofitel, but a less expensive motel nearby will have some rooms available, as well as a place with kitchenettes.
     All meetings and worship will take place at the Sofitel, for which they are not charging us extra.  The hotel is located on the large, open, former site of Marine World Africa USA directly on a bay lagoon full of jellies.  With many walking trails along the lagoon, there will be nature opportunities as well.
     "We hope to increase attendance with shorter travel time, more flexible packages and vastly improved tech capabilities," says Mosley.
     The Council consulted widely before making this decision, with youth, sacred space planners, sound and tech folks; all were enthusiastic.
     Mosley is even going to visit all the local restaurants and negotiate for deals and coupons - now that’s some serious research!