INDEX

2010 Singles Weekend Kansas City Missouri The Class of 2010!

THE PHOTO & VIDEO GALLERIES: COMING SOON!

HARLEY TOUR / FRIDAY RUBY TUESDAY LUNCH / FRIDAY NIGHT PIZZA DINNER & SOCIAL / BUILD A BETTER SINGLE WORKSHOP / KEEPING ONESELF UNSPOTTED FROM THE WORLD SEMINAR / SABBATH LUNCH /

SABBATH SERVICES / DAYTIME LIMO RIDE / GROUP PHOTOS AT TREZO MARE / DINNER AT TREZO MARE / BOOMS & BLOOMS AT POWELL GARDENS / CHEESECAKE FACTORY / NASCAR BUS RIDE / UNION STATION / 3D DINO MOVIE / DINO EXHIBIT / PICNIC / SUNDAY NIGHT GAMES / FUDGE TOUR / MONDAY LUNCH AT CRAYOLA CAFE

Our 2010 event was

a booming success!!

Fireworks at Powell Gardens

"Booms & Blooms"

July 3rd 2010

Photo by Ruben Gusman

Pictured left to right: Ruben G, John V, Dr. Levy, Tracy W., Paul A, Toby N, David C. Piper M. Rob S, Melea M, Brian G, Patty G, Brittany B, Kathy S, Bryan E, Regina O, Matt H, Domenica G, Joy L, Debra V, Ronna S, Joe B, Andrea L, Beth W, Janet P, Daniel P, Joanna P, Charlotte S, and Scott S. Kneeling in front row: Jon D.

EVENT STATS

Total Singles = 30

Women = 17

Men = 13

States Represented = 16

Arrived by plane = 12

Drove in = 18

Singles in 20's = 8 (Women = 5, Men = 3)

Singles in 30's = 4 (Women = 2, Men = 2)

Singles in 40's = 4 (Women = 2, Men = 2)

Singles in 50's = 11 (Women = 6, Men = 5)

Singles in 60's = 3 (Women = 2, Men =1)

Average Age = 43

Singles who are on the SACOG singles site = 17

Singles who cancelled = 18

(Women = 12 Men = 6)

Singles who attended the 2009 event = 7

HOME / 09' PHOTOS EVENT REVIEWS / BUILD A BETTER SINGLE WORKSHOP NOTES / KEEPING ONESELF UNSPOTTED FROM THE WORLD SEMINAR SCENARIOS NOTES

Event Coordinator: Ruben Gusman

rubenkc@aol.com

816-838-1034

THIS PAGE IS STILL UNDER CONSTRUCTION

The singles group at Union Station for the 3D dino exhibit & movie

20 Photo Galleries

We will have 20 photo galleries representing each activity we did over the weekend. Below is just one representative photo for each one. When I receive all the photos from everyone I will complete each gallery in chronological order. Please be patient while all the photos are being edited, color corrected and cropped for the best presentation. Click on the thumbnails to enlarge the image.

Event Seminars

“Build-A-Better-Single Workshop I

Creating the Perfect Godly Single Man and Woman” -Major Assembly required!

Mr. Joe Dobson

Seminar: “To Keep Oneself Unspotted From the World”

Moderator: Dr. Ralph Levy

We will be posting notes from these seminars soon. Stay tuned.

Event Reviews

We will post more reviews from the singles who attended here as soon as they come in.

Brittany B. - LA.

This weekend was not only a way to meet new singles, but a fun and eventful way to meet new people in the church. The seminars were a great opportunity to ask questions about the proper way people in the church should go about dating and get to know exactly what the opposite sex is thinking in the line of dating and relationships. All the events were a TON of fun! Even the pizza was fun! My new favorite pizza is blackbean, sourcream, and roasted tomatoes! YUM!

Going to the museum was a good relaxing time to get to know people. The Picnic was great! I must have played 6 games of volleyball! It was a perfect vacation. I can't wait to go back next year!

The Kansas City single's weekend was a lot of fun! The organization was superb. I liked the location---rooms and breakfast at the Courtyard Marriott were unbeatable, and so convenient. I enjoyed the mix of singles--young and "old". It was like a big family reunion with plenty of

food and laughter.

I would have preferred a more serious, perhaps scholastic, approach to our seminars though.We all know why we were there--because we are single and feeling the inadequacies as such.

Janet P. - KS

There were hopes, of course, and many questions. With Mr. Sargent's position as a UCG minister who reviews D & R cases, I feel he would have an excellent vantage position to "teach" us things he has learned through years of counseling. Topics that come to mind are: how to really get to know your spouse (or potential spouse) through considerate communication and desire to serve the other, how to negotiate through conflicts ( which are inevitable), habits which are pleasing to the opposite sex, and how to make God the center of our relationships. In other words, instead of looking for the "perfect person", maybe we could learn more on how to become the perfect person.

So, it was a great party, but let's not overlook the "white elephant" in the room. Finding or creating times and ways to get to know each other in more depth would be welcome. Perhaps modeling some from the "quick dating" events, like rotating couples and having 5 minutes for "interviews", or something. Teaching us proper attitudes towards dating would be good too, and opportunities for more follow-ups. Otherwise, an event like this could just add to a single's frustrations. [Another topic could therefore be, "How to accept our position as a single in God's church."]

Also, I was exhausted after the three days! I think maybe a few of the younger ones were too. Perhaps instead of crowding in so many activities, we could have some more relaxed events, even just in the hospitality room. I really enjoyed our games time! There was a pool there. . . dancing would be fun too. Anyway, these are my thoughts and evaluation. I hope they are helpful to serving us again in the future.

Jon D. - GA

This year's event was even better than last year's. I really enjoyed the

limo ride, and it helped that the limo was larger, with two doors, and

seating for people on both sides. The trip to the dinosaur exhibit was

fine, though I'm not that into dinos, but it's always nice to see

beautiful Union Station.

The meals were good as well. The games and general socializing were probably the most fun to me, however. But you could put me in a bare room with a bag of chips, a few bottles of beer or juice, and a few other friendly people, and it's almost certain I'd have fun. Not that I'm suggesting that be the bulk of the activities next year. I'm just saying I'm low maintenance.

Photo Gallery # 1 "Harley Davidson Plant Tour" July 2nd 2010

16 Singles arrived early on Friday afternoon to take the tour of the Harley Davidson Plant.

Photos were not allowed in the tour portion but we could take pics in the showroom as you can see below. Click on the Thumbnails to enlarge the image or simply click on the first image and then clcik on "next" to view all the photos in the gallery.

Next Photo Gallery will be the 2nd Saturday Seminar

Stay tuned!

Tracy W. - MN

This was my first singles event, and I had a wonderful time! The planned activities struck a perfect balance between fun and educational. From the Harley Davidson Plant tour to the Chip's Chocolate Factory demonstration, I learned a lot and got to know many fine brethren in the process. I was really looking forward to touring Fort Osage, which was unfortunately closed that weekend, but the dinosaur exhibit was a fine alternative. The only request I have for next year's activities is to see Fort Osage. Well done on the planning!

I enjoyed having the seminar topics ahead of time in order to prepare for discussion. When the topic permits, I, personally, favor breaking off into smaller groups for discussion during the seminars before diving into the

subject as a large group. That was done in Seminar 2, and I thought it would have been beneficial in Seminar 1 as well. The topics were thought-provoking and a good opportunity to search the scriptures.

The people, of course, help make these events enjoyable and successful. I had a great experience meeting fellow brothers and sisters in Christ, and I felt comfortable interacting with them regardless of age differences. I look forward to attending again next year!

I thought this years event was a great success!

We had a wider range of age groups than we did last year but everyone seemed to be able to mingle together seamlessly. It was great to meet singles that I had never met before and I really liked that we had so many guests attending their very first singles weekend.

I was impressed by how active the singles participated in the interactive workshop and seminar and it was nice to hear from a lot of different perspectives.

Ruben G. - MO, For me, there was not one particular activity that was the highlight of the

weekend. It was the whole continuing mix of festivities that I enjoyed.

All the food was great and this year we made sure we had a little physical action with the option to play volleyball to burn off some of the calories. I did really like that we got turkey sausage and could order custom omelets for breakfast.

One thing I was a little disappointed with was the fireworks display. I thought last years fireworks were a little better and definitely had a more dramatic finale.Considering how much we had on our schedule, I thought things went fairly smooth. There are always a few glitches in an event like this but everyone seemed to go with the flow.

Thanks to everyone who attended and for helping make the weekend so much fun!

Several singles indicated to me that they could be counted on to attend again next year so that's a positive sign! Guess we'll see some of you again next year!

Piper M - OK

I have attended the KC 4th of July singles weekend three years in a row now. I thought this one was very good. I always love the activities that Ruben plans for the group. This year a little leisure time was also factored in, which was very much needed. I love dinosaurs so the Dinosaur exhibit and movie at Union Station was a big plus for me. It brought out my inner child, although that usually doesn't take much.

I thought the group of singles co-mingled very well this year. I met several people younger than me and developed some friendships as well. I thought the size of the group was a good size, not too big and not too small. I always enjoy visiting with people that have attended in the past.

I felt like the seminar on Building a Better Single was very educational and informative. It helped us see the point of view of the opposite sex and what they would like from us. I also enjoyed Dr. Levy's seminar of staying unspotted from the world. I felt like we might have delved into that subject with a little more depth. If time had permitted, I would have liked to see more group interaction and personal experiences and how they were dealt with. The game night this year was more effective as there were more "group" type of games that were brought, thus allowing us to be in bigger groups. Overall, I enjoyed the event and feel like they get better every year. Count me in for the next one!

Andrea L. - GA

I loved it!

The only changes I would make are: Have dancing

Do not have people dress in dinner restaurant attire to later go to a park. Make it clear when we're supposed to wear out name tags.

More and better fireworks!!! More group pictures and individual pictures with each persons name. Otherwise it was great!

This was the only way to meet other brethren. It was loads of fun. Friendly people, the messages that were spoke are consistent across the board from Atlanta to Kansas. Thank you for doing the this event. It makes a difference and it truly helps with life's decisions.

Thanks Ruben!

Photo Gallery # 2 "Friday Lunch at Ruby Tuesday's" July 2nd 2010

After the Harley Tour, the singles had lunch at Ruby Tuesday's. More singles began to arrive later in the afternnon. Click on thumbnails to enlarge photos.

Matt H. - MO.

I had the best time at the Fourth of July Singles Weekend. Fun, Games and plenty of food. Everyone was friendly and happy to be there. I meet so many new friends and I am ready to go again next year if it happens again ... if I'm still single.

I know its hard to find the perfect mate but this weekend get together might be the way to find your significant other. Its tough to keep up a long distance relationships but if she isn't looking for a worldly person like yourself, it may work out. You just got to keep up with your contacts. Just check out the pictures from this event.

We did almost everything. I just wished some of the events where a little closer to them or maybe the hotel should have been closer to the events. I know why Ruben picked the hotel we stayed at. It was very close to the airport and everyone was shuttled in and out easily.

The limo was nice but I thought everyone felt crammed inside. The NASCAR Bus's air was broke and it was swerving all over the place but it did fit everyone in nicely.

Picnic at the Sargent's was over the top excellent! They fed us and everything. THANK YOU to the Sargent's for inviting us to their home and your hospitality.

Ruben, thanks for everything, with out you, none of this would be possible. THANKS! Maybe you are and one of God's angels helping us out.

I give the event 9.5 out of 10. Oh it was good to be there! Please don't pass it up the next time it happens!

Photo Gallery # 3 "Granite City Brewery" July 2nd 2010

After lunch at Ruby Tuesday's , a few of the singles took a trip to Zona Rosa to grab a few beers at Granite City Brewery. Click on thumbnails to enlarge photos.

Photo Gallery # 4 "Friday Night Pizza Dinner and Fellowship" July 2nd 2010

Singles gathered in the hotel hospitality room for a pizza dinner and fellowship.

Yeah, umm... ummm...

Wait, what was the question?

Oh, yeah, I 'll have a slice of one of those cheesy-meaty pizzas.

John V. - KS.

Overall, the event was another success- that's a hat trick for Ruben! I enjoyed having a variety of ages, as well as many people from around the states,( next year let's have some international guests?)

My least favorite was the awkwardness of the transportation, it seemed difficult to sit by someone to talk to when we were cramped in like cattle. And the Trezo Mare restaurant is getting old, same situation not getting to sit by who you wanted to, guess the size of the group was too big for more intimate communication.

Now the good stuff. Liked the variation of the cheese cake restaurant ( nice venue)! And I also would like to have some means of dancing integrated into the weekend. Union station was a classic choice, always interesting. I too enjoyed the small groups playing games, oh the laughs! Met some interesting people, always good to share Christian fellowship! Good to see some familiar faces return to the event as well as making new acquaintances.

The seminars may have been too general for me to take away in specific points, (Though it's always help full). I observed that some wore there heart on their sleeves, while others were reluctant to really share what was on their minds.

Again, overall the weekend went well, and I enjoyed the opportunity for fun and fellowship!

Patty G. - PA

I loved playing that funny game Sunday night, as we kept adding people to our table and laughing and guessing. Nobody wanted to stop. It was great watching fudge-making, as he threw it in the air! Thanks for the roses, dinosaurs, driving together, fireworks, good food, varied places to see. And thanks for your cheerful self!

The only thing I'd change was the first seminar, we had come prepared to talk and had three points/scriptures each to share. The opening remarks took half of our time, I kept checking the time because I really wanted to hear what everyone else had to say. Then it felt rushed for our group to share our points. I've heard many sermons about life since I was 10 but have rarely participated in seminars with my peers, so I treasured that time together and didn't want to take so much time with a lecture.

I don't know what you could add to next year's event, if you have one. You did a wonderful job of keeping everyone busy, occupied, informed, together. I hated to say good-bye at the end.

Scott S. - MN.

This was my first singles event. I'm grateful for all the planning and

activities and interesting people. It took me a day to feel at ease,

and I was grateful for the people who made us laugh. That helped. We kept busy, did things together and became friends by doing things together and laughing and talking and eating. The Kansas City area offers a lot, and Ruben did a great job of sharing it with us.

There are probably others like me, starting life in another direction.

I'm not used to being single. Being with all these other single people

was so great, we were happy to be alive and interested in each others'

stories.

I have been to many singles events but I have to say this years KC singles event was one of the best I have been to. Thanks to Ruben everything was very organized, you could tell he put a lot of thought and work into making the weekend successful. We had the right amount of people to be able to meet everyone in the group. Everyone was so friendly!

I enjoyed the tours of the Harley Davidson factory. I didn't know every motorcycle they built is already sold and no, they aren’t that loud when they come from the factory! The Dinosaur museum was amazing and I also enjoyed seeing how fudge was made at Chip's Chocolate Factory since chocolate is one of my favorite food groups!

Thanks to the Sargents for opening up their beautiful home to us. They made us feel very welcome and the meal they provided was delicious! The bus ride to their house was a little rough but it was worth it once we got there.

We packed a lot into one weekend, their was always something to participate in. I enjoyed it all and I would encourage others to go next year. I would say the event was a great success!

Photo Gallery # 5 "Build a Better Single Workshop"

July 3rd 2010

“Build-A-Better-Single Workshop I

Creating the Perfect Godly Single Man and Woman” -Major Assembly required!

Mr. Joe Dobson moderated the first seminar on Sabbath morning and used the "Build a Bear" concept to introduce the interactive workshop. The seminar concluded with a drawing for the bear and was won by Dr. Ralph Levy.

Charlotte S. - AK.

It was my first time trying out a singles event for the church and it was a really great experience. I made a lot of great friends and enjoyed the fellowship with the church members.

The seminars were a great tutorial and a good way to get your mind working. I really enjoyed Kansas City it's a big city with lots to do. The weekend definitely keeps everyone on their toes and there is never a dull moment. I appreciate the opprotunity to go to the event and I will definitely look forward to coming back next year!