International Torch Run Conference The 2008 International Torch Run Conference will be held 30 October - 1 November in Dallas, Texas, USA. Every year, the International Conference provides an opportunity for Torch Run volunteers to network, share and learn how to improve their local Torch Run programs, which contribute greatly to increasing public awareness and enhancing the lives of Special Olympics athletes throughout the world. Texas is poised and awaiting the arrival of torch runners from around the world as plans for the 2008 Law Enforcement Torch Run International Conference take shape. Dallas is a diverse city offers a thriving culinary scene, leading arts district, trendy entertainment districts and endless shopping opportunities. Big D offers the finest in Southern hospitality and you can expect no less when you arrive for this year's International Conference. The Conference Information Brochure [PDF 1MB] provides general information on registration, concurrent sessions and events Registration REGISTRATION IS NOW LIVE!!  Click here to access the registration/hotel reservation system for the 2008 Conference. Conference Schedule (subject to change) (650K Excel file) Please refer to the 2008 Conference Registration Instructions for step-by-step details on how to register for the conference.  To help prepare for online registration, a Registration Worksheet [Word 669KB] has been provided to gather information on each member of your delegation prior to online registration. Please feel free to tailor this document as you see fit. Conference Hotel The 2008 conference meetings and accommodations will be at the Hilton Anatole Hotel located just north of downtown Dallas, Texas. The conference rate is $162 per night plus tax. All hotel reservations must be made through the online system. Hilton Anatole Direct Bill Application Direct Bill Applications are due to Anna Berke at (202) 347-3460 (fax) or aberke@specialolympics.orgby 1 September. Airport Transportation Courtesy transportation will be offered to and from the airport before and after the conference. Arrival transportation will be offered from DFW & Love Field to the Anatole Hotel on Wednesday, 29 October from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Thursday, 30 October from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Departure transportation from the Anatole Hotel to DFW & Love Field on Sunday, 2 November from 5:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Attendees should book arrival and departure flights accordingly. Pre-Conference Event Online registration for the pre-conference event golf tournament is now available here. All registration/payment must be received by 30 September. This year's pre-conference event will be golf at one of the top five courses in the DFW Metroplex. Castle Hills Golf Course in Lewisville features Bentgrass greens and 419 Bermuda grass fairways and roughs. This 18-hole championship course is a course that all levels of golfers can enjoy. This event is open to all conference attendees, law enforcement, and guests. Buses will load IFO the Tower Lobby at approximately 6:30 a.m. on Wednesday, 29 October. Cost: $100 includes transportation, food, cart and green fees. Advanced registration, independent of the conference registration, must be made through Special Olympics Texas. You may also mail in your registration forms which can be accessed here. [PDF 3MB] This information will also be available at http://www.sotx.org/ Newcomer Orientation and LETR Director Session The Newcomer Orientation and LETR Director Session will be held Wednesday, 29 October from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. All first time conference attendees are encouraged to attend the Newcomer Orientation, where they will receive general guidance and how to get the most from their conference experience. Following the Newcomer Orientation, all attendees will enjoy Texas hospitality night at the Anatole. At the Director Session, LETR Directors from around the world are extended the opportunity to meet and exchange ideas and best practices for working with their Torch Run programs. Opening Ceremonies Opening Ceremonies begins promptly at 9:00 a.m. Thursday, 30 October to celebrate the Law Enforcement Torch Run "Deep in the Heart of Texas" with your co-hosts Special Olympics Texas and the Texas Law Enforcement Torch Run. Texas Host Night Host night will be held at Eddie Dean's Ranch in downtown Dallas from 7:30 p.m. to midnight on 30 October. Live and Silent Auction Hundreds of items will be auctioned to benefit Special Olympics, so start thinking about what you may want to contribute. Shipping information will be available in the registration packet. 5K Run The 5K Run will take place along the Katy Trail on Saturday, 1 November from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Cost: $20 per runner – price includes event t-shirt. For additional information please contact: Doug Ray Special Olympics Texas 400 South Zang, Suite 926 Dallas, Texas 75208 Phone: +1 (214) 943-9981 Fax: +1 (214) 943-3774 dray@sotx.org or Anna Berke Special Olympics International 1133 19th St., NW Washington, DC 20036 Phone: +1 (202) 824-0268 Fax: +1 (202) 347-3460 aberke@specialolympics.org (2007 International Torch Run Conference Information)