Frequently Asked Questions
Have a question about the schedule or registration? Make sure to use our navigation links to visit these pages.
- Who is the host club for this event? Who is planning it?
Beginning in 2023, all regional conventions will be coordinated through the national headquarters. The Sertoma Board of Directors voted for this change in order to ease the financial and legal burdens on local clubs. All regional meetings are planned through the coordination of Sertoma staff, with input from the regional directors. Education is being planned nationwide by the National Leadership Specialist Committee, which is chaired by 2022-2023 National President Gretchen Nielsen.
- What meals will be provided?
We will have light appetizers during the Welcome Party on Thursday evening, lunch on Friday, and lunch and the banquet dinner on Saturday. All are included with event registration. If you are bringing a guest who will not be attending the rest of the event, you may purchase separate meal tickets for the Welcome Party and the Banquet. Lunch is for attendees only. Free extended continental breakfast is provided by the hotel (two guests per paid room).
- What can I expect at the Welcome Party?
This year’s themed welcome party will feature light appetizers, photo opportunities and a cash bar. Make sure to dress for the event and get your picture taken against the Sertoma backdrop to commemorate your time in Springfield.
- What will the weather be like?
Temperatures typically run in the mid 50s to mid 70s in early May in Springfield, IL. We encourage you to head to weather.com (https://weather.com) to see the most current expected weather conditions so that you can plan accordingly.
Business casual and appropriate casualwear (e.g., jeans and a nice tee) are perfectly fine for our main sessions on Friday and Saturday. Dinner is typically a little more upscale, with cocktail attire recommended but not required. Remember that this event will be held in a hotel so you may want to dress in layers to ensure your comfort with the temperature.
- What will be the event COVID-19 protocol?
Sertoma Inc. will observe all local, state and federal mandates and guidelines when hosting the event. We will do our best to follow social distancing and sanitizing best practices to help contribute to the safety of our members. Information will be sent out prior to your arrival in Springfield to ensure our attendees have the latest information.
- How can I get to the hotel? What about parking?
Make sure to check out our Parking & Transportation page for more information.
- What restaurants are nearby? Where can I find a…?
Yelp (yelp.com) is a great place where you can search for restaurants by type, distance, pricing, rating and more! You can also use the site to find other things like pharmacies, medical services, supermarkets, etc. The hotel front desk may also help you find local favorites.
- Are there any external events or tours scheduled?
Sertoma is not hosting any extracurricular activities at the 2023 Regional Conventions.
- What is there to do in the area?
Please make sure to check out our Things to Do in Springfield page for several curated lists of ideas.