<p><img alt= src=/sites/default/files/conv2013/DignityUSA_Logo_FINAL_0.jpg style=float:right; margin:5px />As the 2013 Convention quickly approaches there are several important things to consider:</p> <h2><a id=volunteer name=volunteer></a>Volunteer</h2> <p>This summer&rsquo;s Convention is more dependent on individual volunteers than in the past. We need many more participants to donate their time to support the Convention. The volunteer opportunities are numerous but most are not time consuming. Some volunteer tasks will require 30 minutes while staffing the registration desk or assisting with the dinner dance may involve 2 hours. As a volunteer you will still be able to attend all plenary and workshop sessions and can participate fully in the special activities of the Convention:</p> <p>When you register for the Convention please go the <a href=http://conv2013.dignityusa.org/webform/volunteer>Volunteer page</a> at the Convention website to review the volunteer opportunities. At the volunteer site you will see a list of the opportunities for liturgical involvement and for supporting program activities.</p> <p>If you have already registered you can reenter the website and click the <a href=http://conv2013.dignityusa.org/webform/volunteer>Volunteer page</a> to enter your information.</p> <p>Please contact <a href=mailto:madcity@ameritech.net?subject=Volunteerism>Donna Miller</a>&nbsp;for questions about the volunteer opportunities or to indicate a preference for a specific time slot. You will be contacted one month before the Convention with your volunteer assignment.</p> <h2><a id=parade name=parade></a>The Parade of Banners</h2> <p>An important tradition at DignityUSA conventions is the Parade of Banners. Chapters from across the country are applauded as their members process in front of the assembly with their banners unfurled.</p> <p>When we gather in Minneapolis the Parade will be front and center. The Opening Ceremony will begin with a procession of our chapters our affiliates and our allies carrying their banners as we recognize the many hands necessary to do our justice work. &nbsp;In addition to the banners images of each group will be projected in the ballroom to add another connection between Convention attendees and the communities that are the DignityUSA family.</p> <p>To have a photo of your chapter or affiliate group included in the Parade of Banner montage please send it to: <a href=mailto:tyates02@verizon.net?subject=Parade%20of%20Banners>Tom Yates</a>&nbsp;no later than May 30 2013.</p> <h2><a id=hotel name=hotel></a>Hotel Stay</h2> <p>Don&#39;t delay in making your reservations at the Minneapolis Hilton. The hotel&#39;s special rate of $99/night is guaranteed only through June 4. Reserve now at: <a href=http://www.hilton.com/en/hi/groups/personalized/M/MSPMHHH-DIG-20130702/index.jhtml?WT.mc_id=POG>DUSA Convention 2013 Reservations</a>.&nbsp;</p>