Current schedule and list of speakers subject to changes.  Times and Time Zone conversions are accurate as far as we know.  In case of error or confusion, we are using EDT time as our basis.  For Time Zone conversions to your specific local time, we can recommend using www.timezoneconverter.com.  Sessions will be recorded and available on-line for those that may miss them live.

All Times noted before are based on 12 hour AM/PM Standard
EDT	= Eastern (Time Zone) Daylight Time
PDT	= Pacific (Time Zone) Daylight Time
GMT	= Grenich Mean Time
IST	= Irish Standard Time
AEDT	= Austarlia Eastern Daylight Time

Regional Site Location Requirements

 

You will need:

• A large LCD flat screen or a video projector - depending on how many people you expect to be viewing.
• A computer, Mac or Windows, connected to your LCD flat screen or projector.  The video is broadcasted over uStream.tv.
• Some set top boxes and smart TVs have a uStream app for viewing without a computer.  Apps are available for Roku, Boxee, AppleTV, Panasonic Viera and Samsung Smart TV.  Test these apps by checking out the Unity153 show or any other uStream show to ensure that this feature works properly.  More info on viewing options can be found here.
• In most home applications, a larger LCD Flat screen will likely be sufficient.  In a large home, hotel conference room or similar space, a video projector is likely more appropriate.
• For audiences over 8-10 people, you are likely going to need audio amplification as most flat screen speakers simply are not normally loud enough or of sufficient sound quality.  People often add a Sound Bar amplifier to their flat screen; that will likely be sufficient.  The speakers on all video projectors are completely insufficient.  If you are using a video projector, you will need an external sound ampler, especially in an hotel conference room or similar venue.
• A reliable high speed internet connection.  While the faster the better, a 1 Mbit connection should be sufficient for viewing.  If you are able to watch the Unity153 show with out any video interruptions, you are good.  While locations offer wireless WIFI service, a wired connection is always faster and more reliable.  If you believe there may be a need or desire to contribute to the conference via broadcasting, you will need to contact Ken Reilly at life888@valornet.com
• Be aware that if you are considering booking a hotel conference room or other commercial space, that location will likely have equipment available ... at a price.  They may require you to use only there equipment if using their room.  You may also want a microphone with the sound system depending on the size of the group.  Confirm this all as well as their internet connectivity and the prices for such when negotiating for the space.
• In terms of connecting this all up, there are simply too many combinations and variations to detail here.  Please work out these details with a local resource.  If you simply can not get any help to pull these details together, contact Thom Mills at thom@randomize.com.
• As uStream features an interactive text feedback mode via Facebook, any one in the audience may wish to use their iPad, iPhone, laptop or other similar device to interact.  They will want a WIFI connection to be able to do this. 

• determine the location at which to host
• determine costs related to the venue.  These costs will need to be covered by yourself and / or other that will be gathering with you.
• be prepared to serve communion at the beginning of the each day.  Ken Reilly recommends you go to Walmart and get 4 oz small paper cups / bathroom cups - get 2 boxes.  Get frozen grape juice rather than bottled as the bottled has preservatives.  You are welcome to have wine as well should you choose.  Make sure you have an appropriate amount for the number of people you anticipate on attending.
• organise food requirements - that can be as simple as giving everybody a list of the restaurants in the area, organizing potluck or what ever else works for you and your group - regardless of meals, water and light snacks should be available at a minimum.  Keep in mind that much of the point of the regional gatherings is for fellowship and connecting and meal times are one of the best times to accomplish this.  We would encourage you to make meals a group experience in some manner.
• make sure you have some extra bibles on hand for those that may not have brought
• contact those that have expressed an interest in joining you at your location from the unity153.net site.  Contact information will be forwarded to you.  Be prepared to provide those that are interested in coming your contact info, location address, hotels or other accommodation info.

  Facebook and Twitter General Info

See below for general FaceBook and Twitter info.

 - https://www.facebook.com/unity153passover2014

On this FaceBook page, you can share thoughts, inspirations, etc. before, during and after the conference.  Like and join the page.  Your Likes and joining will be publicly available and can be seen by those that also join the page.  We know that many of you have met each other at conferences past.  This FaceBook page provides a mean of reconnecting.

 - #unity153passover2014

Make postings on Twitter using the hashtag #unity153passover2013

 

Viewers and speakers will be able to stay connected via these venues and that is much of the power these.  We are aware that many are wary of Facebook and Twitter and other social media networks; and for good reason.  Both of these services will expose your privacy as much as you make your life public on them.  Both include many privacy setting to give you control of who can access to your information or postings.  Of course, we are aware that those powers that wish to view it all can do so.  This fact alone, though, should not negate the connecting power of these tools.  We also know that your home phone and cell phones are open to "data gathering" and few of us are likely to drop these tools.  All tools need to be respected, these are no different.  With a little understanding and a recognition that what you make public is public, these tools can be used safely and to great effect.  I would recommend you do some research and if you choose to sign up and / or practise with these "tools" do so well before the conference.