September 11, 2001 had a drastic change on America; not only did airport security change, but conference security also tightened.

This past weekend, conference-goers probably noticed a few new security features at the Conference Center.

Doug Balls, director of Guest Services at the Conference Center said that security tightened immensely since the terrorist attacks and even after last April's General Conference.

"We now check scriptures and all boxed items in bags," Jerry Billings said.

Outside the Conference Center, Guest Services had hundreds of line ushers.

These ushers were responsible for maintaining lines, giving directions and for checking conference attendee's bags and scriptures.

"Ushers are now checking scriptures, which is new to this session, because we have had in the past people cut out the inside of scriptures to conceal a hand gun and bring it into the Conference Center during a session," Billings said.

Guest Services also found various weapons within concealed boxes in individuals bags coming into the Conference Center, Billings said, thus requiring the new procedures.

"In addition to the entrance checking, Guest Services spent seven hours Friday night checking under every seat and in every room to make sure that everyone would be safe attending conference," Balls said.

The increased security helped people feel safe as they attended conference.

"I feel like they are doing a good job with security," said Mindi Marshall, a freshman from Roseville, Calif. "Although it may make lines a little longer to get into the building I have nothing to worry about and appreciate all they do to help us have an enjoyable, learning and sacred environment to attend conference in."

Billings, a retired Murray resident, is a group leader at the Conference Center.

A neighbor began ushering at the tabernacle for General Conference and got Billings interested. He and his wife have served with Guest Services for four years.

Couples are called on part-time service missions for three years to serve as a group leader and usher at the Conference Center, Assembly Hall, Tabernacle, University of Utah Garner building, Brigham Park and the Bountiful Regional Center.

Billings and his wife served such a mission, and have renewed that mission after the three years to go again.

Those serving a part-time mission must be at every event in those venues.

"This job is high demand," Billings said. "For example, I have been standing all day since 6:30 a.m. when we had prayer meeting, and I won't leave until every single person is out of the building after the priesthood session is over tonight, only to turn around and do it again tomorrow."

However, people continue to volunteer despite the long hours on their feet.

To staff Guest Services for General Conference, Balls needed 800 ushers and security.

Every ward within ten stakes in the Salt Lake Valley is asked to provide ten Aaronic Priesthood holders to help usher at conference.

They were required to attend all five sessions and work with those serving part-time service missions like Billings.

"It is a great thing for us to work with the young men and get to train them," Billings said. "This experience really helps to prepare them for their mission of serving others and by being on your feet all day long."

Seven group leaders took charge of the Aaronic Priesthood, putting them to work in their area.

"Inside the Conference Center, we have two group leaders for each floor of the Center and one special hosting group," Billings said.
Copyright Brigham Young University 7 Oct 2002