Myrtle Beach site of 80th FOCA National Convention

MYRTLE BEACH, SC [OCA Communications] — The 145-acre Kingston Plantation Resort here will be the site of the 80th national convention of the Fellowship of Orthodox Christians in America [FOCA] August 31-September 4, 2006.

The annual gathering is being hosted by the FOCA’s New Jersey District.

“Every year, fellowship members from across the US gather in faith, fellowship, and service to discuss the current events and the status of the FOCA,” said Mr. Michael Steffaro of South River, NJ, convention co-chairman. “Ideas are shared, memories are made, and delegates from every chapter are given an opportunity to make a difference to the benefit all of the members of the FOCA.”

The convention committee is working diligently to make the first convention to be held in Myrtle Beach a memorable one! An ideal destination for families, couples, and singles interested in mingling with fellow Orthodox Christians in fellowship, fun, and worship, Myrtle Beach offers something for everyone—including fishing, golf, shopping, fun in the sun, nightly entertainment, restaurants, and much more! And many conventioneers plan to arrive several days in advance or to extend their stay after sessions have concluded to take advantage of all the region has to offer.

The tentative schedule of convention events is as follows.

Wednesday, August 30: The national FOCA sports tournament will be held at the Myrtlewood Golf Club’s Pine Hills Course.

Thursday, August 31: The tournament continues at the Arcadian Shores Golf Club, followed by a social at Finn Finn McCool’s restaurant. A “Beach Blanket Bingo Bash” welcoming reception will be held at Kingston Plantation in the evening.

Friday, September 1: Morning and afternoon convention sessions will be held at the Embassy Suites Convention Center. In the evening, a bus will transport conventioneers for dinner at the historic Pine Lakes Country Club for a scrumptious seafood buffet, after which they will enjoy a performance at the Alabama Theatre at “Barefoot Landing.” Tickets for this event include dinner, show, and transportation.

Saturday, September 2: Convention sessions continue. Afternoon beach activities will include a variety of exciting games and competitions between districts. After Great Vespers, conventioneers can explore “Broadway at the Beach” with its 350 acres of shops, restaurants, nightclubs, and other attractions; or, attend a local minor league baseball game, including a family-style picnic.

Sunday, September 3: The Divine Liturgy will be celebrated in the morning, followed by a free afternoon. In the evening, the traditional banquet and dance will be held.

Monday, September 4: The farewell luncheon will be held at Finn McCool’s restaurant.

According to Mr. Steffaro, “early registrations have exceeded our wildest expectations, and our room block is nearly full, so immediate registration is recommended.” Call Kingston Plantation directly at 843-449-0006. Use the code “OCA” or “Fellowship of Orthodox Christians in America” to receive special convention rates.

Additional information is available on the New Jersey FOCA District web site at http://www.njfoca.org or by contacting Mr. Steffaro at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).