National Conference FAQs

 

2024 FAQs

When does the conference begin and end?
The conference officially begins with Pre-Conference Sessions on Sunday, October 6, at 1:00pm and a Welcome Reception for all attendees at 5:00pm. The main program begins Monday morning at 8:00am. The conference concludes at 12:00pm on Wednesday, October 9.

How do I make hotel reservations?
Reservations at the Hotel Valley Ho are first come, first served. Please note that the Valley Ho booking policy requires a one night non-refundable deposit, so we encourage attendees to be certain of travel plans before booking

To reserve your room, you may use the online reservation link which will automatically apply the discounted room rate from three nights before the conference to three nights after. You may also reserve over the phone by calling the hotel directly at 844-993-9601 and letting them know that you are with SPARC to receive the discount.

Once the reserved block of hotel rooms has been fully booked, the rates are subject to the Valley Ho’s pricing when booking.

Are meals included in the registration fee?
Yes, breakfast, snacks, and lunch are provided to all attendees on October 7 and October 8, and then breakfast only on Wednesday, October 9. There will also be a poolside Welcome Reception on Sunday evening, October 6, at 5pm and an evening reception on Monday, October 7, on the Skyline Rooftop Terrace overlooking Camelback Mt. and downtown Scottsdale.

What is the closest airport to the conference?
The Hotel Valley Ho is 7.5 miles (approximately 15 minutes) from Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport. Taxi is recommended.

What will the weather be in Scottsdale?
The typical average temperatures in Scottsdale in early October range from a high of 85 degrees to a low of 60 degrees. And sunshine is abundant!

What are the registration cancellation policies?
Cancellations for a National Conference registration made prior to July 4, 2024 will receive a 75% refund. Cancellations made between July 4, 2024 and July 31, 2024 will receive a 50% refund. No refunds will be granted for cancellations made on or after August 1, 2024. All registered participants who do not cancel and do not attend are liable for the entire registration fee. We are unable to make exceptions for emergencies; however, you may send someone from your same organization in your place.

Pre-Conference Workshops are non-refundable; however, you may send someone from your same organization in your place.