By GLENN HANNIGAN In 1961, John Kennedy was in his first year as president, John Glenn was training for his first space flight, and no one had ever heard of John Lennon. The Braves were still in Milwaukee. Jimmy Carter was still in Plains. And the first Methodist men’s retreat was held at Rock Eagle. With the exception of 2005, when Rock Eagle was cancelled to allow the camp to be used to house refugees from Hurricane Katrina, the men have gathered there every fall. The 2011 event, Sept. 23-25, will feature several special events to highlight the anniversary. Walt Boyd, Chairman for the Retreats Committee, has been gathering information to be presented in a historical pamphlet including a listing of past Rock Eagle Speakers, past Conference Presidents for UMM, past Executive Directors, and UMM who have received the Society of John Wesley Awards. Dr. Timothy Tennent, President of Asbury Theological Seminary, will be keynote speaker. Tennent, who grew up in Atlanta as a member of Grace UMC, will be teaching under the theme: "Back To The Future." Rock Eagle will feature about 18 workshops, Bible study on the lake with Carey Gibson, cabin sharing, praise services, a golf tournament and the Red Cross Bloodmobile. Music will be provided by Crystal River, CrossWalk, Ralph Freeman -- for the 42nd year in a row -- and a volunteer choir. The registration form can be found at www.ngcumm.org. Costs for the full lodging and meals is $165. You can register for the Cross & Flame run and T-Shirt, EMS, and Golf. If you have any questions call Cary Loesing or Judy Koch at 678-533-1455.