Frequently Asked Questions:
QUESTION: What really happens?
Answer: After breakfast in the dining hall, there is a brief morning
Ingathering in which a
spiritual or other inspirational or thought provoking subject is discussed.
Our Chaplain and Theme Presenters may offer a few words at this time also.
On the four full days of our time together a variety of workshops will be
offered. The scheduling of activities allow for ample free time for relaxing,
meditation, socializing, swimming, golf (at nearby courses) or strolling
about the dune areas or beaches. In the evenings there will be
a program or entertainment, and on the last night, a party.
There is a chat/game room open most of the day and evening with
opportunities for anyone who desires to talk about their favorite
subjects and play games.
QUESTION: What if I just want to relax? Will I be a social outcast?
Answer: Absolutely not! You may attend a workshop (or none at all) or
just enjoy the camaraderie or the magnificent scenery. This is your
opportunity to enjoy yourself and do your own thing. Asilomar is a
full service conference ground with many amenities.
QUESTION: Who attends?
Answer: Unitarian-Universalists as well as other religious liberals
and their friends and families. Most are from California and other
western states, but we have people come from all over the country.
Approximately a third of the attendees each year come to Stebbins at
Asilomar for the first time. Our group is comprised of about 100
people – couples and singles, a diversity of working adults on their
vacations, and retirees.
QUESTION: What about children? Is there a program for them?
Answer: While some people have brought children and teens, Stebbins
is primarily a gathering for adults. Children are welcome at age
appropriate workshops. No special children’s programs are currently planned.
However, if the registration warrants it, a limited program for children will be provided
during workshop times. Lately some grandparents have brought their grandchildren to
the delight of both. The site offers a variety of opportunities – beach, swimming pool,
woods, etc. There is a reduced fee for children 2 – 17 and no charge for infants.
QUESTION: I am a vegetarian – Is this a problem?
Answer: No problem. The menu offers options for vegetarians, just
indicate this on the registration form. If you have a food allergy or
special dietary needs, some accommodation can be made directly with the
kitchen at mealtimes.
QUESTION: This sounds expensive. What do I pay?
Answer: Much less than many vacations.
The details are available in the brochure that
comes out early in the year. If you haven’t received it by March first,
call or email for one.
QUESTION: How will I know what is planned each day?
Answer: Our newsletter Seabreeze will be at the breakfast table each
morning. It is lovingly prepared with the daily schedule and special
events, as well as contributions from attendees. A pre-conference
edition will be mailed to registrants a few weeks before the conference.
In it you will find profiles of the workshops and staff, and suggestions
of what to bring.
QUESTION: Who can answer any other question I may have?
Answer: For program questions, call the 2008 dean, Dean Clark, at 805-543-5093,
or email dac@charter.net
For registration questions, call the 2008 registrar, Eileen Plunkett, 415-883-7544,
or email eileen36@pacbell.net