Whew! Planning a conference is exhilarating and tedious, all at the same time. We simply can’t wait for July!
As you know, we are switching venues this year for LauraPalooza 2015, from Mankato, Minnesota to Brookings, South Dakota. We are working very closely with South Dakota State University to make sure we have all our i’s dotted and all our t’s crossed in order to make your registration process as smooth and seamless as possible. Right now, we’re realizing we need more time in order to ensure that.
Therefore, registration for LauraPalooza 2015: Through Laura’s Eyes will not be opening on February 7. At this time we do not have a target date, but we will give at least one week’s notice beforehand.
February 7 is still an important day!
First of all, of course, it’s Laura’s birthday. And even though registration is delayed, we do have a few things still happening on the 7th: Presenters will receive acceptances on their proposals, and we’ll make a special announcement regarding what you can expect at this year’s conference.
Is your membership current?
LIWLRA members are entitled to a conference discount and will be the first to receive the information that registration is live. Unsure as to whether your membership is current? If you’ve joined or renewed since January 1, 2015 or renewed or joined for multiple years over a period that covers 2015, you’re a current member.
Need to join or renew your membership? Click here.
If you have questions about your multi-year membership, please email our Membership Coordinator at members@beyondlittlehouse.com.
Answers to your logistical questions
In the meantime, we do have some logistical information to share based on the questions we know you have.
Timeline
The official start to the conference will be a reception Wednesday evening, July 15, 2015, where people can pick up their registration packets. The opening keynote will be on Thursday morning. The agenda will continue all day Thursday and all day Friday. Activities in De Smet will begin on Saturday and continue through the pageant that evening.
So if you are planning to participate in everything from beginning to end, time your travel to arrive by 5 PM Wednesday evening and plan to stay overnight either in De Smet or Brookings on Saturday.
Dorm lodging
As in past conferences, dorm lodging will be available close to the conference location for Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights.
Dining
Included in your conference fee will be several catered meals at the conference location. Beyond that, a dining hall package can be purchased for on-your-own meals.
Hotel lodging
For those who opt to stay in hotels, we will let you know which of these have offered conference rates. Keep in mind that if you stay in a hotel you must have access to a car, as all hotels are at least a mile away from campus.
Transportation to De Smet
If you will not have a car, one bus will provide round-trip transportation to De Smet, and 53 seats will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.