We have GREAT NEWS to share with everyone…We're back on! Three weeks ago hurricane force winds came through Louisville, which caused much damage in the area. Power outages were at an all-time record high, and downed trees on power lines also created many fires. The Clarion Hotel was one of the properties that suffered fire damage as a result of downed trees on power lines.

Long story short: God answered our prayers and has provided us with a new hotel and conference center in which to host this year's Winter Family Weekend. The Galt House Hotel and Conference Center finished a $60 million renovation within the last two years, making it one of the premier hotels in all of Louisville. It is also the largest hotel (with 1,300 rooms) and sits right on the Ohio River. What this means is that unlike in past years, we can all stay in the same location where most all of the activities will take place. We have not signed a contract with any other hotels and request that you make your reservation at the Galt House, as this helps us secure excellent housing rates for you as well as helps the Church afford all the activities that are put on at this event.

The Galt House is offering us an unprecedented rate in their history since the renovations of $59 per night per room. We have also contracted their executive suites for the same rate. What this means is that you may request an executive suite (which is a bedroom with 2 queen beds and television, bathroom, and another room with foldout couch, television and mini-fridge) on a first-come, first-served basis. Once they have filled their suites, all remaining reservations will be standard rooms of either 2 queens or 1 king bed. No rooms offer microwaves.

We encourage you to make your reservations by going online to www.ucg.org/familyweekend or calling (800) 843-4258. Please be sure to let them know you are with the United Church of God if you call them. By way of reminder, the event opens with a family dance on Tuesday evening (Dec. 23) and ends late Saturday night (Dec. 27). Reservations may be made immediately.

Many more details about the event as well as how to register will be shared via announcements in your local congregations or by logging on to www.ucg.org/familyweekend when we all return from the Feast.

Mark Winner - Event Coordinator