ATHA Website - Lancaster

Date: October 19-22, 2011

Host Region
Region Two ATHA members are pleased to bring you the 2011 Biennial,
to be held in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.

Host City – Lancaster
Lancaster, Pennsylvania is the host city for ATHA’s Biennial Conference in 2011. Many have familiar images of Lancaster County – rolling hills, quiet country lanes and the clip clop of Amish buggies. There is another, less familiar, side to Lancaster – funky art galleries, theatre district of sorts, vibrant outdoor murals, museums, coffee houses and gourmet restaurants. Within a short distance from our conference, you will be able to experience the heritage and history that is unique to Lancaster County and the city of Lancaster. Those who enjoy exploring for antiques and folk art will find multiple venues to do so when not in a Biennial workshop. There are wonderful restaurants and the weekly indoor Farmers’ Market is not to be missed. Kayaking, biking, birding, fishing, hiking and enjoying the autumn colors are just some of the activities available for those who enjoy outdoor activities.

For more information on the diverse activities and resources to be found in Lancaster visit the Pennsylvania Dutch Convention & Visitors’ Bureau website at www.padutchcountry.com.

Courtesy of PA Dutch Convention & Visitors' Bureau

Site of the Conference – Eden Resort & Suites
The Best Western Eden Resort & Suites will be the location and headquarters for our Biennial. They offer 280 contemporary guest rooms centrally located near all Amish and other historical attractions, outlet shopping and entertainment venues. There are two restaurants and a lounge in the hotel. The Eden is famous for their Sunday Brunch. In addition, guests will have access to a heated indoor pool, fitness center and much more! Many of the bedroom suites have full kitchens, patio or balcony and fireplace. All rooms have a flat panel TV, safe, microwave, refrigerator and coffeemaker. Discounted room rates will be available to ATHA members.

Visit their website at www.edenresort.com for more information and a visual tour.

Courtesy of Eden Resort & Suites

Rug Hooking Instructors & Workshops
The tradition of bringing together the best rug hooking instructors available today will continue at the Lancaster Biennial. Workshops geared for the beginner and for those who have hooked for many years will be offered. Rug hookers whose interests range from fine cut to primitive to mixed media will find a workshop that appeals to them. You will be stimulated and inspired --- guaranteed! Details on the workshops and the instructors will be provided as soon as the arrangements have been confirmed.

Vendors
What is an ATHA Biennial without wonderful vendors? Those who gather in Lancaster will not be disappointed. Work is underway to recruit your favorite vendors. A wide selection of the finest rug hooking wools and wonderfully over dyed wools will be available for your enjoyment and purchase. A large selection of patterns will be available as well as the latest hooking frames, equipment and supplies. You will have the opportunity to help our economy recover by supporting our vendors! More information on the vendors will be provided as soon they have all been confirmed.

Hooked Rug Exhibits
Whenever rug hookers get together, there is an opportunity to exhibit and share our latest creations. The Biennial will be a BIG “show and tell”. Past Biennial attendees always comment on the inspiration they gain from the rugs exhibited. Plans are underway for an exhibit of those attending and for featured rug hooking artisans.

Raffles
Fund raising is always an important component of an ATHA Biennial. Several raffle opportunities will be available for you to support ATHA and have fun at the same time.

Tours

The County and City of Lancaster are rich in history, culture, antiques, arts and outdoor activities. Biennial attendees will have an opportunity to tour and visit many of these rich resources. Detailed information on tours that will be offered will be posted shortly.

Biennial Details
Specific details about teachers, workshops, vendors, lectures, free programs and costs will first be announced in the ATHA newsletter so if you are an ATHA member you will get the news first. If you are not a member, you may want to join so that you do not miss out on this wonderful opportunity!

2011 Biennial Chairs
The committee chairs for the Biennial are shown below. They are interested in hearing your ideas and suggestions that will help make the Biennial special and responsive to your needs. Also, let them know if you can help.

2/19/2010