So, AJ, have you made hotel calls yet? Has anyone done this? Because if no one gets back to me in another two or three days, I'M going to make arrangements.
(Note: this is a terribly ineffective threat, I realize. *laugh*)
Posted by Kama (Member # 3022) on :
I'm coming, is that enough?
Posted by JonnyNotSoBravo (Member # 5715) on :
Thank you, Kama, for another great OOC comment.
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
Tom where do you think would be good? I was painting one of the bedrooms this weekend but it was running through my mind. I'm willing to make calls to get price quotes but I'm uncertain as to where we should target and how many rooms we should plan on reserving. I figure 30 people so maybe reserve what 10-12 rooms? I was also wondering if looking for hotels in Skokie would be a good idea since this would accomodate the orthodox jewish people much better.
AJ
Posted by katharina (Member # 827) on :
Skokie sounds great, especially if lots of things are all within walking distance. I'd say a hotel with a conference room (DEFINITE), free breakfast if possible, close to restaurants and such, for probably $75 a night, maximum. Is that possible?
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
Skokie sounds awesome. Accomodate as many as possible.
Also, I've been contacted again for Kama donations. Email me if anyone else is still interested -- we can do it privately, as a Welcome to the States gift pooled from all of us, or it can be a direct gift. No matter to me, I'm just your friendly conduit.
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
Kat I've got to check the train lines. Skokie is a nearer suburb than Rosemont by O'Hare but getting to the hotel might be problematic. And if it isn't on a El or Metra line its definitely out.
AJ
Posted by Kama (Member # 3022) on :
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
Hmmm it does have an El end in Skokie. You would have to take the Blue Line into the city from O'Hare and then the Yellow Line back out though.
So you can see what I'm talking about. These are the El Lines.
I'll find a Metra Map too. The two light rail systems overlap confusingly.
AJ
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
btw in case everyone was wondering Skokie has a large orthodox Jewish community so kosher resturauts and delis abound. And you will probably be within walking distance of a synagogue thouth it might be a bit of a trek. There's also a significant Polish presence
AJ
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
*grumble* what are the stupid dates again? I can't find my old thread to look it up.
AJ
Posted by katharina (Member # 827) on :
Oh, that is so cool!
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
Is it the 2nd weekend in August?
AJ
Posted by Ryuko (Member # 5125) on :
I'm still interested in coming, but I don't know... I have to talk to my family about it. The money thing's an issue at this point, too. Though I may have hotel money by the date, I don't now. And I don't want to put any jatraqueros out on my 'maybe'... (sigh)
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
Banna, yes, August 13-15.
Posted by JonnyNotSoBravo (Member # 5715) on :
The Mooses (Meese?) said they'd be there the 11th through the 15th of August...I'm assuming it's the weekend involving those dates.
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
on phone to doubletree now. They have a kosher kitchen AJ
[ April 12, 2004, 03:32 PM: Message edited by: BannaOj ]
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
The Doubletree co-ordinator will call me back. The price break appears to start at 10 rooms or more. You guys better not fail me on this!
I'm trying the Hampton hotel next.
AJ
Posted by BYuCnslr (Member # 1857) on :
I'm assuming these are the hotels around O'hare? Satyagraha
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
Skokie is a bit away from O'Hare but not horribly so. It is a little north and about halfway between O'Hare and the City of Chicago proper. I don't think there would be giant problems in getting people there. At worst you would have to take the Blue El line into the city and then take the yellow spur back out to Skokie for a cost of about $6-8 I think. I also figure that an informal service will be run with my mini-van. The hotels themselves may have o-hare shuttles.
If this option appears too pricey I'll go back and start calling the OHare hotels too.
Right now I have a quote from Hampton Inn in Skokie. The nearest Jewish temple/synagoge is 2 miles away so it would be walkable.
A standard room with 2 queens at the group rate with 10 or more rooms is $99/night. If you would like a suite that includes a small kitchen it will be $149/night but it sleeps six. They reccommend this for families. The meeting room if <10 rooms is $250/day if between 10-20 then $125/day and if over 20 rooms are booked then it is free.
I'm guessing doubletree will be more expensive. I've still got to call Howard Johnson.
AJ
Posted by Papa Moose (Member # 1992) on :
Just a side-note for anyone doing planning -- the last time we stayed somewhere that had a price break for the group (wedding), the break was (as I recall) $109 for a room that was normally $129. The AAA member rate was $79. So sometimes those group rates aren't quite as cool as they sound. Be sure to look at all the options.
Just sayin'.
Oh, is someone organizing the purchase of Cubs tickets, too? Do they have a home game that weekend?
--Pop
Posted by Daedalus (Member # 1698) on :
Holy crap.
So everyone's against a Motel 6? Half the price, double the cockroaches...
Posted by katharina (Member # 827) on :
Whoa. THat sounds great, but a little pricey, I think...
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
The problem is, it is hard to get a conference room, which everyone agrees we need, if you don't go through their formal "group" arrangements. And if we don't get enough of a block of reservations they charge out the wazoo for the conference room. So it is a rock and a hard place situation.
The O'hare hotels may be cheaper. But Skokie is closer to the City as well which reduces traveltime a bit.
AJ
Posted by katharina (Member # 827) on :
*thinks*
Are there hotels of slightly less posh quality there? Maybe not quite Motel 6, but, say, a La Quinta?
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
I'm calling I'm calling. Howard Johnson should be cheaper I'd think. They will call me back. On the line with Holiday Inn as we speak.
AJ
[ April 12, 2004, 04:06 PM: Message edited by: BannaOj ]
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
Holiday Inn is sounding better. $89/night up to 5 people per room. On hold for the conference room quote. (They will call me back with Conference room quote)
Clearly I need an Excel spreadsheet to organize the data.
AJ
[ April 12, 2004, 04:11 PM: Message edited by: BannaOj ]
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
Ok here's the info so far. Skokie Hotels
Hampton Inn and Suites Conference room $250/day 10 rooms $125/day 20 rooms free 2Q @ $99/night Suite (sleeps 6) @ $149/night
Howard Johnson/Comfort Inn Complimentary breakfast Conference room $75/day poolside room w/pool view stairs only access to conf room (what about Diane?). Courtesy van to El line 2Q -$95 +tax
[ April 12, 2004, 04:52 PM: Message edited by: BannaOj ]
Posted by TomDavidson (Member # 124) on :
You know, I don't know about Skokie. While I appreciate that it may be marginally more convenient to the two orthodox Jewish Hatrackers who're likely to show up, it's considerably less convenient for everyone else.
It's a fair distance from downtown, an hour from O'Hare by train, and so on. This concerns me only because the single major limiter on this get-together is going to be time, not space; the farther we are, then, from places people want to be, the less time people will have to do the things they want to do.
Placement in Skokie will pretty much guarantee that the con stays in the hotel, with perhaps a single excursion into the city. This is not a BAD thing, mind you, since I think we're perfectly capable of enjoying ourselves in a hotel, but I don't know if that's consistent with everyone's impression of the event.
If proximity to kosher establishments is a major priority, a hotel nearer to downtown might make more sense than a hotel in another suburb. The problem here is that ten or twelve rooms is NOT a heck of a lot of people for the purposes of "group rates," but is just enough that you can no longer take advantage of the typical Expedia rates.
One problem I think we're going to have, regardless of location, will be the cost of meeting facilities. If we want an open room -- which we do -- we're going to have to shell out at least $200-$300 downtown; the numbers get better the farther you get from the lake.
Here's the best quote I've found from a downtown hotel (the Essex, on Grant Park, which is walking distance from Museum Row and has free busing to the Art Institute every hour): $86/night per king suite (in a block of ten), with $250 per day for access to a 40-person meeting room from 9AM to 5PM. At ten rooms, that brings the total cost per day for facilities to $111/room, or $56 per person, per day.
I don't know how this compares to the hard numbers you're getting in the suburbs.
[ April 12, 2004, 04:35 PM: Message edited by: TomDavidson ]
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
Tom I don't think Skokie is that far away from the City. It shouldn't take much more time to get in than on the blue line from Ohare. And the blue line from O'Hare is like 25 minutes to downtown not an hour.
I'll start getting Ohare quotes tomorrow. I might be able to do some more this afternoon but horrors, I actually have to WORK too
AJ
Posted by katharina (Member # 827) on :
quote:$86/night per king suite (in a block of ten), with $250 per day for access to a 40-person meeting room from 9AM to 5PM. At ten rooms, that brings the total cost per day for facilities to $111/room, or $56 per person, per day.
I think...that...sounds a little too expensive. Posted by TomDavidson (Member # 124) on :
If we're going to balk at $56/person per day, I don't think we can afford a meeting room. They're simply not available for a group our size at less than $200/day, as far as I can tell.
That's not crippling, as we can always meet somewhere else (or arrange to purchase one large suite room somewhere that we USE as a meeting room, and then kick people out when it's time to sleep).
---------
If I'm reading Anna's spec sheet rightly, her quote from the Hampton sounds pretty good: the meeting room would be $125 with a block of ten rooms, and there are suites available that sleep six (which would help if we got significantly more than 20 people).
So far, it looks like Anna and I have both been calling on an estimate of 10 to 15 rooms. If there are more people interested, things get considerably cheaper.
[ April 12, 2004, 04:42 PM: Message edited by: TomDavidson ]
Posted by katharina (Member # 827) on :
quote:or arrange to purchase one large suite room somewhere that we USE as a meeting room, and then kick people out when it's time to sleep
Well, at WenchCon, people slept in the meeting room one night. I think this would be better if we can't find a place for less than $200 a day.
Posted by TomDavidson (Member # 124) on :
I'm pretty sure that sleeping in a rented meeting room is a federal crime. I like the other way around -- meeting in a bedroom -- considerably better. *grin*
Posted by Farmgirl (Member # 5567) on :
Well, but the whole idea is that if we double-up (sleep two or more to a room) then it isn't as expensive per person.
I realize for some (like Tom & Christy) will want their own room, or a room for their family, and can't spread out the cost as much.
But I think the ones AJ has found sound reasonable for what we are wanting. And when sharing, it doesn't have to be as much per person.
Farmgirl
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
What I'd personally vote for so far is the Howard Johnson that is changing to a Comfort Suites in June. Their pool area is recently remodeled and the pictures look awesome. Though I realize it is stairs only access and we'd have to carry Diane in if it came to that.
(and after I just typed that Holiday Inn is looking better and better.) They just called me back for>10 rooms reserved it would only be $50/day for the Hospitality suite though we would be responsible for our own food.
AJ
Posted by BYuCnslr (Member # 1857) on :
Saying that I'll be working in Beloit for the summer, I'm most definantly gonna be there. With my kite! People must bring kites!
Also, has anybody thought of hotels away from the city? If you go like an hour out of the city (on one of the buses) it might be cheaper...Rockford for example has the Clocktower, which is a conference hotel... Satyagraha
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
If we stay in Rockford, we won't get to Chicago, it is approximately a 2hour drive WITHOUT traffic.
AJ
Posted by BYuCnslr (Member # 1857) on :
Touche, though it is possible as a last resort, if any other choices just cost too much. Satyagraha
Posted by katharina (Member # 827) on :
quote:They just called me back for>10 rooms reserved it would only be $50/day for the Hospitality suite though we would be responsible for our own food.
That's the conference room? THat's very reasonable. Posted by TomDavidson (Member # 124) on :
Anna, that hospitality suite price is pretty decent. What amenities are included in the suite, and how large is it? If it can accomodate at least four full-length banquet tables with seating, I think that's an excellent deal; you're still talking $89/room with double occupancy, right?
I'm still not sold on Skokie, mind you, but I won't be a stick-in-the-mud about it. I can't say that it's part of the quintessential Chicago experience, but I suppose that experience is still 20 minutes away by train.
[ April 12, 2004, 05:00 PM: Message edited by: TomDavidson ]
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
On hold with Ramada OHare.
Re: Holiday Inn: I think the Hospitality Room is smaller. They said four round tables. Normally each of those tables hold 8ish people. I didn't ask about a DVD player for the LotR fanatics.
But it is holiday inn I'm sure they have such things and also a complimentary breakfast in the morning.
AJ
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
Ramada Ohare is MUCH more reasonable. at least so far. $69/night+ tax 2-Queens. Calling about the banquet room.
Positive side. They have shuttle service to and from OHare This will easily allow us to get back to the El Line as well.
Down side. They are calling me back tomorrow for quotes on the conference room. No food is allowed in the conference room.
[ April 12, 2004, 05:14 PM: Message edited by: BannaOj ]
Posted by Farmgirl (Member # 5567) on :
No food in the conference rooms? What kind of place is that?
Farmgirl
Posted by Ryuko (Member # 5125) on :
QUESTION: Are we definitely going to a Cubs game? Because if we are, then I can probably convince my Dad to come along with me, and that may be the only way I CAN go. Even if I'm perfectly all right with spending the weekend in a hotel alone with scary internet strangers™, which, forgive me, I'm not quite... I most seriously doubt my parents will be...
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
OK I'm not sure how much of an itnerary we actually need to have. There was debate over this before. But I know that several people wanted to go to a cubs game.
I think someone who wants to go should be in charge of that event. Mack, Ryuko? You can find most of the info online and if you need someone to make calls let me know and I'll do that locally so you don't have long distance. But give me all the info you can find first.
Then we can put Annie in charge of the art museum etc.
AJ
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
I think the best plan is to not try to schedule too much for the whole group, but have smaller groups plan activities that people can choose from, with at least one meal and some social time all together.
Ryuko, would it help if you were staying with me, who both you and your mom have met, and possibly my sister, who you’ll be meeting next week? If ElJay does decide to come you could possibly hitch a ride with her, too.
BTW, KamaCon will be Bob and my . . . ::checks calendar:: . . . fourth date. Do you all think you can stand the goofy-in-love vibes we’ll be giving off all weekend?
Posted by Ryuko (Member # 5125) on :
In answer to your last question, no. I recommend you stay far away from all human beings until the toxic squishiness has faded all to dust.
And actually, it might help. I really should talk to my parents seriously about this soon. But I'm sure my mom would be more all right if she knew that you guys were going to be there..
By the by, have you checked your email??
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
And I refuse to be in charge of every activity I'd go crazy if I tried. I've already got a wedding I have to help with at the beginning of July and the Christy thing going on.
I'll do the best I can but I really think it would be too much work. You are mostly highly intelligent adults and should be able to figure out activites via the internet quite well. The small groups like dkw is talking about is probably the best bet.
AJ
Posted by katharina (Member # 827) on :
Anna, I completely agree. You take care of the accomodations, and other people will do the rest.
Annie gets art museum! Whatever adult who wants to go to the Cubs game whose username has the most letters in it get the game!
I'll arrange for a microphone, and if anyone sings twist and shout in the street, they will have my eternal adulation.
Posted by TomDavidson (Member # 124) on :
I think the whole "herding cats" analogy comes into play here.
What we PARTICULARLY need to know -- at this very moment -- is what kind of outside trips people intend to be taking. Are visitors to Chicago going to hit museums? The Mile? A Cubs game? Ethnic neighborhoods? The beach?
Things we do in the hotel aren't as necessary to schedule in advance, as they don't really affect our choice of location -- or timeframe -- as much.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
I'm thinking about going. I'd be a lot more likely to if I had someone to ride down with me, share gas money. If it was just me coming from Minneapolis I would be trying to fly, but with two of us it would probably be cheaper to drive. If we end up with one of those sleeps-6 suites, that would be nice, too.
I'd also be more likely to go if it wasn't my birthday. Of course, I suppose I could consider it a fun birthday trip! But it would break my tradition of going to the 510 for my birthday.
Anyway, you can mark me down as undecided. But Ryuko, I'm looking forward to meeting you next week! And we've got some time to figure it out, especially if we drive.
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
We could do your 510 B-day dinner early. (Like maybe on whichever day that Bob and I come up to MN earlier that week? )
Posted by Bob_Scopatz (Member # 1227) on :
Ryuko and ElJay are meeting???!!! Next Week???!!!
Nothing either of you say to each other about me is true! Just wanted to get that straight.
Ryuko, would it help your parents to know that I'll be there? Or would that hurt the case? I mean, your mom and I are practically related. We know all the same movies and bands and hated the same politicians. If that's not a demonstration of trustworthiness, I don't know what is?
CT, please e-mail me details on how to do the Kama-thon donation thing.
I don't care where our hotel is, I intend to get in at least one trip to Chicago proper for museums. I must see the giant allosaurus bones (Lucy, right?) and make puns. And there's the "Chee-burger, Chee-burger" place to go to too.
Deep dish pizza anyone?
Cubs game? Sure thing.
But most of all, I get to be with Dana for a few extra days, so whatever happens I'll be in heaven!
(okay, that was just to show people what it'll be like to be near us. You've been warned.)
Posted by BYuCnslr (Member # 1857) on :
The art institute is open for free on Tuesdays, Becky, Jeni, and I are planning on flying our nice big kites.... Satyagraha
Posted by Bob_Scopatz (Member # 1227) on :
Ooh! I have a pocket kite. Kite in a bag, actually. It's a lot of fun.
Posted by BYuCnslr (Member # 1857) on :
More Kites the better! Satyagraha
Posted by CalvinMaker (Member # 2032) on :
Do we have a list of people yet who are going for sure, most likely going, maybe going, etc.?
And I could find out when and where Swing Dancing is, and organize a trip to there one night, if anyone is interested.
Posted by mackillian (Member # 586) on :
I am SO on for a cubs game.
And the Giant Kites.
And we should all fence again!
Posted by JonnyNotSoBravo (Member # 5715) on :
I am most likely going, 'cuz I've never been to Chicago. I'd like an order of museums, a Sears tower visit, some authentic deep dish Chicago style pizza, an evening of live jazz/funk/rock music, a tour of the city and a Cubs game for dessert. No kite flying for me; I've been to Kansas and I know what wind is.
Posted by MyrddinFyre (Member # 2576) on :
Oooo, jazz!
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Ooooh! Swing dancing! I haven't gone swing dancing in forever! And ethnic neighborhoods... and museums... this is sounding awfully appealing!
Bob, I can't imagine what Ryuko and I could tell each other that you'd object too... *blinkblink*
Posted by pooka (Member # 5003) on :
I think I'm falling increasingly into the maybe going thing. I just don't see being unencumbered by children for very much of the time, though it seems there must be other people who will be in a similar situation. Maybe we can do tag team nursery duty. I also may just do one day, driving in and then moving along. It's pretty safe to say that I wouldn't be needing a hotel room, though I'd want to chip in on the conference room. I know it' frustrating, but trust me I wish I did know what I could expect to be doing in 4 months.
[ April 12, 2004, 11:23 PM: Message edited by: pooka ]
Posted by MyrddinFyre (Member # 2576) on :
If I do end up being able to go, I'd be happy to take up nursery duty for a few hours if anyone needs it!
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
OK if we are in the flight path to Ohare airport... kites are probably going to be a bad idea, considering that the planes practically scrape the power lines....
You are talking to someone who loves kite flying though. If we did it along the lakefront it be a different story!
AJ
Posted by TomDavidson (Member # 124) on :
Okay, here's the deal:
How many people who're going are like Jonny? Because what he's got planned for downtown -- a meal, a lakefront walk, visits to all the major museums, a Cubs game, and some blues music after nightfall -- is a weekend. Seriously.
I mean, even taking Museum Row at a dead run -- and stepping into the Art Institute with your eyes closed and stepping right back out -- you're looking at losing four hours. A Cubs game will eat at least three (and probably four) hours. A blues show will eat around two and a half. Just walking the Mile or the lakefront takes about an hour, even if you don't stop indoors anywhere.
It's possible to do all these things, but I don't think it'd be possible to do them all AND socialize with other Hatrackers (unless a number of them came along). And, quite frankly, I think it'd make very little sense to try to do them from Skokie.
So how many people here are leaning towards Jonny's approach? And how many are just planning to hang out in the hotel? We need to figure out what the tone is going to be.
[ April 13, 2004, 09:19 AM: Message edited by: TomDavidson ]
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
1. Tom is correct.
2. I'd be delighted to do nursery duty. Just give me a room and kids, along with a list of known allergies and current medications (if any).
3. Bob, I will email you.
Posted by Kama (Member # 3022) on :
<-- not really interested in game
I'm a bit torn on the rest. I'd like to do some visiting, cause it may likely be my only time in Chcago, but then again it might be the only time I meet the Jatraqueros, so I also want to hang out a bit. So maybe a day of visiting and a day of hanging out in the hotel?
[ April 13, 2004, 09:28 AM: Message edited by: Kama ]
Posted by Farmgirl (Member # 5567) on :
..like Kama says.
I don't care WHAT we do -- I just want to be with all of you and hang out. Whether that be game, museums, art, walking, dancing or whatever. Let's not be so PICKY about it! Just be spontaneous and go with the flow and spend time together!
LJ -- it's my daughter's birthday too -- and that is how we are looking at it -- as a special birthday trip/present!
Farmgirl
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
I have no opinion. I understand people wanting to see something of Chicago because they've traveled so far. But at the same time I think we need to limit it to a maximum of about two or three major activities.
I'm thinking O'Hare is going to be the better deal financially even though there is the whole no food in the conference room snag. You can order food to your hotel room though and so I'd probably just have the caterer deliver to one of those and have like a buffet line in whatever room gets chosen.
AJ
Posted by celia60 (Member # 2039) on :
Sears tower is pricey. If you're just interested in the view, might I suggest the Hancock Building instead?
In fact, how much is everyone willing to spend on activites? When push comes to shove, that's really going to determine what we actually do, right?
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
yup, and the hancock building actually has a resturaunt on the floor below the observation tower that is free to get into, and buying a soda in the bar area (you don't have to buy booze) is considerably cheaper than the observation fee, though it will run you about $5. But there is generally a line to get there as well.
AJ
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
Also, Farmgirl, while I'm all about hanging out and going with the flow the problem is that it sounds like people will be disapointed if they don't "see Chicago" and whatever that means to them. They are investing a bit of $$ into this trip and they feel they have a right to see the city along with the Jatraqueros.
Also, if we get any larger of a group than we had at Dana's, there definitely needs to be more structure and organization involved, simply because logistics become a nightmare. The larger the group the less spontenaity as an entire group is possible.
AJ
[ April 13, 2004, 10:50 AM: Message edited by: BannaOj ]
Posted by Hobbes (Member # 433) on :
I have no idea if I can come or not, but just in case...
1) As I understand it, everyone who could technically drive me there is either full or is going another route
2) If I took the train, could someone pick me up in Chicago?
Hobbes Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
Hobbes, if you took the train you could change at Union Station and take a local light rail line the way to either Skokie or O'Hare which would land you at either possible hotel's doorstep.
AJ
[ April 13, 2004, 10:57 AM: Message edited by: BannaOj ]
Posted by Hobbes (Member # 433) on :
3) Am I an idiot and there's a whole other possibility in which I just transfer at Union station and go right to the hotel's doorstep?
Hobbes Posted by katharina (Member # 827) on :
1. I'm there to see Hatrackers. I will not go to the Cubs game. I don't really care about Chicago - Chicago will be there any time, and if I want to tour, I can do that before or after KamaCon.
2. I do want to see the art museum with Hatrackers, and I'm serious about the Twist and Shout thing.
3. All other time I would be perfectly happy playing pictionary, wandering through Wal-Mart, and practicing fencing in the hotel.
The official KamaCon sounds like it is going to last at most a few days. For those that want to take all morning to climb to the top of a building to see the view they can get from their airplane, maybe before or after The Gathering? I'm not going, and I want to see you!
[ April 13, 2004, 11:01 AM: Message edited by: katharina ]
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
3)Yup
AJ
Posted by Hobbes (Member # 433) on :
4) That's what I figured.
It all depends on my job this summer (if I can make it or not). I should be finding that out pretty soon and then I can hopefully work out a little more detailed plan.
Hobbes Posted by Papa Moose (Member # 1992) on :
We'll go with the flow. The only specific activity we were hoping/planning for was the Cubs game, and that would be much more fun with other people. However, we'll be there for a couple days before most of you, so anything that ends up not being part of the overall plan is something we can do beforehand if we desire. I've been atop Sears Tower (and have far too many memories of Sears as it is), and while I attempt to appreciate museums (musea?), they fall into the same category as poetry much of the time. I know what's in there is valuable and worth the time, but I usually fail to appreciate it fully without spending more time on it than I'm often willing or able to spend.
The only thing we really can't do in the first two days is spend time with Hatrackers, so we certainly hope for that to be a big part of the weekend.
--Pop
Posted by TomDavidson (Member # 124) on :
Anna, I think we need to decide if this is going to be an "outing in Chicago" kind of thing or a "sit in the hotel" kind of thing. If it's the former, basing in O'Hare seems like a terrible mistake -- especially if we're only saving $20 a night or so -- because of the time it would add to excursions downtown.
I'm also a bit skeptical of the need for a caterer, to be honest -- UNLESS we're based in the O'Hare area, which isn't known for its restaurants.
Posted by Hobbes (Member # 433) on :
I'd be up for whatever, but the less money spent the better. I'm pretty sure Annie will be there so... yah, I don't care what we do really.
Sitting around in a hotel sounds like a blast to me, but if everyone wants to go to a Cub's game... well I love baseball too.
Hobbes Posted by Bob the Lawyer (Member # 3278) on :
I still haven't decided on whether or not I'm going.
Hey, Kat, who else is coming?
Anyway, Chicago will always be there. Besides, my brother is starting his PhD there in the fall so I'll probably be there more often over the next few years.
I'm up for hanging out with with people in the hotel. If people want to come away from this trip with stupid tricks under their belt I can probably bring some stupid amount of juggling equipment and can teach people how to juggle (by which I mean people can throw stuff at each other). I wouldn't mind heading into town once or twice, but lazy is as lazy does and I'd be quite content in a hotel room.
There's no reason why people who want to do some specific excursion can't organize it themselves. If 5 people want to see a Cubs game and everyone else would rather chill out in the pool, I'm sure that can be arranged.
Posted by Hobbes (Member # 433) on :
*Note to self: get a swiming suit*
Hobbes Posted by sndrake (Member # 4941) on :
quote:What I'd personally vote for so far is the Howard Johnson that is changing to a Comfort Suites in June. Their pool area is recently remodeled and the pictures look awesome. Though I realize it is stairs only access and we'd have to carry Diane in if it came to that.
I'm sorry I haven't tracked this until today - I'm sick with a cold and buried with work.
Please tell me this hotel is not being considered any more. Being carried is not something Diane would agree to - I support her in this.
It's one thing when people have private homes that are hard to get into. We can either meet somewhere else or use a portable ramp (we keep one in the van). But I can't see myself partying in an allegedly public place that isn't designed for Diane to enter.
Sorry if this comes off as cranky. I'm really tired and not feeling well. Lousy busy couple of weeks.
Posted by katharina (Member # 827) on :
Bob: woohoo! I have some limited juggling skils, but I would be delighted with the chance to throw fruit with impunity.
And what do you mean you haven't decided yet? It's in CHICAGO! There will never be a closer place! You HAVE to come. Posted by celia60 (Member # 2039) on :
Oooooo, BtL might be in Chicago a few times starting in the fall? Do you think he'll have time for other Ph.D. students?
Yeah, as much as I love the Art Institute, I've been a few times already. I've been trying not to add too much on the suggested activities front as anything I really want to do there, I'm close enough to do on my own time.
What celia is interested in happening (in no particular order):
1. Getting her copy of Monster Rules signed. 2. Sitting down for an intimate conversation with Kama. 3. Putting faces and voices to a lot of people. 4. Eating deep dish pizza at least once. 5. Corrupting Nathan.
Other activities are icing.
Posted by Papa Moose (Member # 1992) on :
Just checked, for the fun of it, and there are games every day we're there, so we'll be cool. In fact, I'd kinda prefer to see them play San Diego (Wed night or Thurs afternoon) rather than Los Angeles (Fri or Sat afternoon), because I'll be happy no matter who wins. If I see them play L.A. and they lose, I'm double-whammied, because I kinda like the Cubs and kinda dislike L.A.
Anyway, as I said, we'll go with the flow. And for the record, BtL, while I enjoy the humor found all over this forum, I usually just smile appreciatively -- but I laughed aloud when you asked Kat who else would be there. Thanks for that.
--Pop
Posted by mackillian (Member # 586) on :
I really, really, REALLY want to see a Cubs game.
That's the only "Chicago" activity I'm interested in doing. Posted by katharina (Member # 827) on :
*hides face in hands* I didn't get it until I read what Pop wrote.
Posted by Papa Moose (Member # 1992) on :
It was four months ago, Kat. But yeah, I "smiled appreciatively" when I read your first response, because I could tell you didn't get it then.
Oh, and Bob -- don't worry, you should still attend KamaCon. Kat's much nicer in person, after all.
Posted by Farmgirl (Member # 5567) on :
I just don't want us to "over-plan" (Tom!). Some of us are perfectly happy sitting in the hotel conference room, eating pizza, conversing and playing board games. (and thus saving money). If every second is planned for outings, well, I don't know.
I remember seeing Washington DC in 3 days once -- it was just crammed, and everyone was cranky and tired and it took all the fun out of it.
Farmgirl
Posted by katharina (Member # 827) on :
quote:It was four months ago, Kat.
Wait. What are you saying? Posted by Papa Moose (Member # 1992) on :
I'm saying that this thread was from four months ago -- that's what his joke made me think of.
Posted by TomDavidson (Member # 124) on :
"I just don't want us to 'over-plan' (Tom!)."
Hey, don't look at me. I'm not the guy calling caterers. j/k
That said, I think it's important to consider how we're going to be using the space, as a group, before making a hotel decision. If the majority of us are okay with just staying in a hotel for most of the time, the amenities of the hotel become considerably more important than its location; if the majority plans to be out seeing the city, or dining in outlying areas, the location becomes more important than what the hotel has to offer.
[ April 13, 2004, 11:50 AM: Message edited by: TomDavidson ]
Posted by katharina (Member # 827) on :
I know. I was teasing.
I was wondering if it is a tweak about my appalling memory for my own actions and comments. I ever tell the story of the incredible, wonderful mix tape of classical music and movie sound tracks that I stumbled across and asked around for where it came from before a friend kindly informed that I had made it?
Posted by Hobbes (Member # 433) on :
When did Tom relapse into the " j/k"?
Hobbes Posted by CalvinMaker (Member # 2032) on :
quote:1. I'm there to see Hatrackers. I will not go to the Cubs game. I don't really care about Chicago - Chicago will be there any time, and if I want to tour, I can do that before or after KamaCon.
2. I do want to see the art museum with Hatrackers, and I'm serious about the Twist and Shout thing.
3. All other time I would be perfectly happy playing pictionary, wandering through Wal-Mart, and practicing fencing in the hotel.
The official KamaCon sounds like it is going to last at most a few days. For those that want to take all morning to climb to the top of a building to see the view they can get from their airplane, maybe before or after The Gathering? I'm not going, and I want to see you!
I completely agree Kat. I'm totally going just to hang out with fellow 'rackers. That was the best part about Wenchcon. Except, I do wanna go out Swing Dancing...
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
sndrake I think the Howard Johnson has safely been ruled out in favor of the Holiday Inn so take a deep breath. If Diane wasn't ok with that it wasn't going to be there anyway that is why I mentioned her in the first place.
Skokie has much more local stuff, parks, shopping etc, if not quite Chicago proper, within walking distance than O'Hare. I also think the hotel accomodations will be nicer in Skokie. So if we want a more sit in the hotel type thing with gentle moseying around the neighborhood then Skokie is probably the place, even if it costs slightly more.
If we are going to jaunt into the City every day, then my vote would be O'Hare.
It is up to the will of the majority and I haven't figured out what our group consensus is. I don't care either way just let me know so I can make the reservations!
AJ
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
Calvin, you know I love you and not to be grumpy (my job is crazy today unlike yesterday when it was dead) but EVERYONE is going to have their own personal "except" So EVERYONE is going to have to come to some sort of compromise at some point. If you want to go swing dancing google up swing dance clubs and figure out if it is possible. I've already given the Elevated train links for both Skokie and O'Hare, and I don't know the City that well. You can figure out how to get there as well as I can.
AJ
Posted by Telperion the Silver (Member # 6074) on :
Meow? Can I come? Posted by katharina (Member # 827) on :
Of course!!
---
Banna, should we take a poll for which type of event it will be?
From experience, I really think...that we should plan for, in general, two days in just the hotel. Maybe after that people might get restless, but for those two days, accomodations, with hot tubs and pools and such, is much more important.
Posted by Telperion the Silver (Member # 6074) on :
Rockin! I love the city. To BoysTown! Long live the corner of Belmont and Halsted!
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
by all means kat, poll away.
my job is either feast or famine and today is crazy. Stupid people tell me that they are sending me 8 parts for testing and instead up the number to 24 and I have to scramble to rush order more glassware to test the darn things in at least his department is paying for it.. Posted by Hobbes (Member # 433) on :
(((((AJ)))))
Hobbes Posted by T_Smith (Member # 3734) on :
quote: 2. Sitting down for an intimate conversation with Kama.
5. Corrupting Nathan.
To save time, you could do both at the same time.
Just for the record, I am coming to this.
Posted by CalvinMaker (Member # 2032) on :
quote:Calvin, you know I love you and not to be grumpy (my job is crazy today unlike yesterday when it was dead) but EVERYONE is going to have their own personal "except" So EVERYONE is going to have to come to some sort of compromise at some point. If you want to go swing dancing google up swing dance clubs and figure out if it is possible. I've already given the Elevated train links for both Skokie and O'Hare, and I don't know the City that well. You can figure out how to get there as well as I can.
AJ
*Was already planning on finding the location/date/time of any possible Swing Dances, so worry not.*
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
*hugs* thank you Calvin. Figuring out the location is so fraught with complications already that trying to intinerize, though absolutely necessary, just seems like this giant overwhelming nightmare.
Maybe Tom can do more on the itnerary front...
AJ
Posted by Kama (Member # 3022) on :
quote:1. Getting her copy of Monster Rules signed. 2. Sitting down for an intimate conversation with Kama.
How come I'm in second place?
-- edit: I also want my copy signed. If Theca brings it
[ April 13, 2004, 03:16 PM: Message edited by: Kama ]
Posted by Frisco (Member # 3765) on :
If we really want to corrupt Nathan, just room him with Lalo, Calvin, BtL and me.
I'd say we could corrupt Kama, but I think she's already there.
Posted by T_Smith (Member # 3734) on :
She said corrupt not scar for life.
Posted by CalvinMaker (Member # 2032) on :
quote:If we really want to corrupt Nathan, just room him with Lalo, Calvin, BtL and me.
So utterly true.
Posted by kwsni (Member # 1831) on :
Art insitute with hatrackers would be fun, but the only thing I REALLY want to do is fly kites.
I don't know how much fencing gear ken's going to be able to bring, because it's summer, and he's not going to that school anymore.
Ni!
Posted by TomDavidson (Member # 124) on :
Why do we think there will be wind in Chicago in August?
Posted by blacwolve (Member # 2972) on :
I don't care what I do. I'd like to see the city, but since I'm going to be spending the next four years of my life in West Lafayette , I'm sure I can manage that some other time. Seeing hatrackers is more important.
Posted by Farmgirl (Member # 5567) on :
Have we ever figured out exactly how many people to plan for?
Did someone go through all the previous posts and keep count?
Farmgirl
Posted by Christy (Member # 4397) on :
I bet there will be enough wind on a beach on the lake. Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
I'm doing a rough estimate starting around 30. When I'm calling the hotels I'm saying 10-12 rooms.
I think more than that may come but at 4/room we could fit 40 people in 10 rooms. I'm hoping we get at least 10 rooms wherever we go because that is where the pricebreak starts.
AJ
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
I will arrange an Art Institute of Chicago trip on Day 2, if that part hasn't already been arranged. Anticipate 10am to 1pm, with at least 15 min at the Chagall stained glass windows, brief snack at the Russian Tearoom across the street to follow, my treat.
Other than that, I plan to be ensconced in a hotel with a passel of kids.* Possible exception is if I can get someone to come with me to Mama Destin's Red Sea for yummmmmmy Ethiopian and good conversation.
*CT's Garten of Kinder (complete with organic playdoh)
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
Telperion, have you ever stayed at the old Surf Hotel? I love BoysTown.
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
CT do you really want to treat 30 people.
AJ
Posted by Kama (Member # 3022) on :
shhhh banna
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
I was expecting, like, 5.
Would 30 people really come with me first thing in the morning to the Art Institute?
Anyway, I'll cover for at least five young'uns without significant resources of their own yet. Art Institute admission and Tea Room dark bread, tea (or juice for the LDS), appetizerish stuff. Considering that I'm bagging the Cubs game and other pasttimes, I'm delighted to splurge here.
[ April 14, 2004, 10:25 AM: Message edited by: ClaudiaTherese ]
Posted by katharina (Member # 827) on :
CT, I'm totally in. And I'll pay for myself, too. I think it sounds wonderful!
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
Russian Tea Time holds a very special place in my heart. There is where I had my first meal with my now-husband. We'd met at the Art Institute, and I figured him for the perfect, safe affair d'heart. I'd never had one before, and as he lived thousands of miles away, the emotional and physical demands seemed minimal at the most.
And, of course, we fell in love over the blini and the samovar. Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
Lovely, katharina! I was hoping for the time with you.
Posted by kwsni (Member # 1831) on :
I'm in, CT. And i don't care if Ken wants to come or not. I also might be able to pay for myself, since I have no interest in a cubs game.
Ni!
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
Becky! Girls Morning out. It'll be a blast. We can work out the details later.
Posted by Hobbes (Member # 433) on :
Girls morning out? Ohh I see. Never mind...
*Walks away, dejected*
One of the few things I've done in Chicago is the art museum, so I'd probably put that under "sociolize with Hatrackers" on my list.
Hobbes Posted by fugu13 (Member # 2859) on :
I'm pretty sure I'm in. Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
The Ramada people said they are going to be faxing me some sort of contract. They still haven't given me a quote for the conference room I don't think. So I hope it will be in there.
AJ
Posted by celia60 (Member # 2039) on :
CT, I'll join in on that. Haven't done the Tea Room yet
blacwolve's coming to West Lafayette? When did that happen? Is Mike coming too?
Posted by Ryuko (Member # 5125) on :
Good news! I talked to my mom and she wants to meet ElJay to see if she's -creepy enough for me to go with her!!! Posted by TomDavidson (Member # 124) on :
I'm pretty sure that -creepy still means that ElJay has the creepy flag, meaning that she IS creepy. What you're looking for is !creepy.
Posted by blacwolve (Member # 2972) on :
The Art Institute was the one thing I was really hoping someone would do.
Yes, we both are, I'm really excited.
Posted by Ryuko (Member # 5125) on :
I'm not thinking in programming terms, I'm thinking for some reason in literary terms.
+creepy means she's creepy +/-creepy means that she has tendencies of being creepy. -creepy means she has no trace of creepy.
Posted by Leonide (Member # 4157) on :
Kama, when are the approx. dates of when you'll be in the Philly area?
*sorry to derail KamaCon thread*
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
The conference room at the Ramada is $75/day Which really isn't that bad.
I'm reading the credit card authorization thing they have included with the contract and I'm not comfortable with it yet.
Another negative on the Ramada, for those who do drive is that parking is $9/day for hotel guests, and this is about as cheap as you will find in that area.
AJ
Posted by Telperion the Silver (Member # 6074) on :
My uncle works at a large hotel in Chicago (won't say which one at the moment) but maybe I can get him to give discounts to us... I'll let you know what I find out... Posted by Kama (Member # 3022) on :
Leo, that'll be the last week - 21/23 (?) to 28th (but I'd like to spend the last couple of days with my highschool friend, who's also in the area, so possibly I'd go over to her place on 26th). How's that?
<-- is joining CT and co in the art museum thingy
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
I'd like to register a vote on the mostly-stay-at-hotel-with-Jatraqueros list. No particular interest in baseball games or swing dancing. However, I would like to go to the Art Institute, if that's happening and possible. Any chance it could be Sunday, not Saturday? (or is that the plan? I'm not sure what "Day 2" signifies) I've always wanted to see the Chagall Windows.
As far as Skokie/city, whichever works out, I'll work around. I appreciate the consideration muchly! Posted by BYuCnslr (Member # 1857) on :
I'm also on the "socialize with Hatrackers" list because I'm not overly interested in sports, though if we can find a nice park, a picnic would be awesome, and then we can fly kites! Satyagraha
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Creepy, I am not. You can come up with all sorts of other unflattering adjectives at times, but nobody has ever called me creepy. We'll do fine, Ryuko.
Um, that still doesn't necessarily mean I'm going. But, I'd give ya strongly leaning towards it.
So now I just have to meet your mom... I suggest we do not invite her to go with us to Rocky Horror next week.
Posted by Leonide (Member # 4157) on :
Actually, that'll probably be perfect, Kama.
I hope Greg is still living in Lehigh by then!
Posted by CalvinMaker (Member # 2032) on :
I can also bring Apples to Apples and Settlers of Catan.
Posted by pooka (Member # 5003) on :
I'm only there for the hatrackers. I've been to Chicago a lot. But I never get tired of Art Institute or Giordano's pizza.
P.S. Pop, there is this section of the art Institute that is tiny rooms decorated in Period. It is amazing, I don't know if Mooselet is quite old enough for it yet, but if not they have a kickin' kids area.
P.P.S. Last time I was there, I couldn't find the Viacom store with the borg. Is that just because Star Trek is no longer cool?
[ April 14, 2004, 09:23 PM: Message edited by: pooka ]
Posted by Shigosei (Member # 3831) on :
I'm still not totally certain that I'll be coming, but for the record I'm more interested in hanging out with Jatraqueros. However, perhaps a trip to the art museum and some swing dancing would be fun. I have no interest in watching the Cubs play.
Posted by CalvinMaker (Member # 2032) on :
Lemme know what updates/changes need to be made.
Certain/As Certain as Possible ______________________________ Xnera Fugu Tom Davidson Christy Kama AJ Katharina CT dkw Mooses Bob Scopatz CalvinMaker Mackillian Celia sndrake Telperion T Smith Frisco Kwsni blackwolve ByuCnslr Farmgirl IvyGirl Lalo Psychotriad fiazko rivka
Maybe _____ Ryuko ElJay Pooka Myr Hobbes BtL Shigosei Jeni Zevlag Xavier Val JohnnyNotSoBravo Richard Berg KasieH
[ April 20, 2004, 12:01 PM: Message edited by: CalvinMaker ]
Posted by Jeni (Member # 1454) on :
Maybe.
Posted by kwsni (Member # 1831) on :
Put Psychotriad on the as sure as possible list, as he'll probly come with me.
Ni!
Posted by CalvinMaker (Member # 2032) on :
Changes made.
And Lalo, I knew that. I just wanted to put you down under the username you were using in this thread.
Posted by xnera (Member # 187) on :
I'm on the certain list. I mean, I *live* here; it'd be stupid of me not to attend.
Noah, the best place I know for swing dancing is the Willowbrook Ballroom. They do swing on Sundays. I'm not sure if it's every Sunday or every other; their schedule changes. Anyway, it has a HUGE dancefloor, gets a good age mix, and has free lessons. Only downside is that its location. Not really any way to get their via public transportation.
Also, I am in on the Art Institute trip. I love it, especially the Miniatures room. And I'd like to remind everyone that the Art Instiute's entrance fee is by donation. There's a suggested amount, but really, you can pay whatever you can afford. I once got in on $1.50 in change.
I pretty much want to hang out at the hotel. Most of my fun comes from talking to folks, so I really don't need to be doing anything. Though I wouldn't say no to a Cubs game or swing-dancing.
Hey Jamie, would you be interested in going on a night photography excursion with me? I'm itching to take photos of the city by night.
Posted by CalvinMaker (Member # 2032) on :
"The Chicago Swing Dance Society runs its own weekly swing dance venue, Java Jive at the University of Chicago. Founded in 1995, Java Jive is currently the longest running Lindy Hop event in Chicago. This Friday institution started in the Reynolds Club C-Shop on 57th and University, and late in 1999 was moved to its current location at Ida Noyes Hall on 59th and Woodlawn to accomodate growing attendance. Java Jive has been and will always be free for both students and the public. Some of the city’s best DJs hold court weekly at Java Jive, continuing the tradition of outstanding music.
Located at the Third Floor Theatre in Ida Noyes hall (1212 E. 59th St.) unless otherwise indicated. Check here for directions.
Chicago is a great city for swing dancers; there is a venue for dance every night of the week! See www.windyhop.org for more information."
Posted by BYuCnslr (Member # 1857) on :
Put me as a definantat least for the weekend.
I've also got Civilization 3 the Boardgame and LotR Risk. As well as LoTR the card game. For those that are insane enough to bring computers, I'll bring a 24 switch as well as an wireless router if anyone wants to LAN. Satyagraha
[ April 14, 2004, 10:57 PM: Message edited by: BYuCnslr ]
Posted by CalvinMaker (Member # 2032) on :
Uh, you were already on the definate list.
Posted by BYuCnslr (Member # 1857) on :
oops, i'm blind. sowwy
Posted by xnera (Member # 187) on :
quote:As well as LoTR the card game
The CCG, or something else? I would love to play the CCG again. It'd have to be the Fellowship edition, though. I don't have any of the others.
I also have some starters and a small collection of the "A Game of Thrones" CCG, if anyone is interested. And some Harry Potter starters, too.
quote:Java Jive has been and will always be free for both students and the public. Some of the city’s best DJs hold court weekly at Java Jive, continuing the tradition of outstanding music.
Ah, cool! I've heard of this one, but never been to it. Sounds promising, though. The price is right. Posted by mackillian (Member # 586) on :
Done and done, karen.
I'll have a computer, but will be using it to edit photos
And I don't think I'll be coming on the art institute trip. Too early. Posted by Hobbes (Member # 433) on :
Sweetness, if I come, I'll try and bring my beloved laptop.
Hobbes Posted by Daedalus (Member # 1698) on :
Aw, thanks, dude, I'd appreciate that.
Posted by BYuCnslr (Member # 1857) on :
quote: The CCG, or something else? I would love to play the CCG again. It'd have to be the Fellowship edition, though. I don't have any of the others.
I also have some starters and a small collection of the "A Game of Thrones" CCG, if anyone is interested. And some Harry Potter starters, too.
No, what I have is a set of Lord of the Rings Tarot Deck and Card Game here, but it's really easy to learn, and rather fun.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Call me a definite maybe! Kidding -- only reason I haven't booked a flight yet is I'm waiting till we have a hotel booked.
Call me a yes. Posted by Primal Curve (Member # 3587) on :
Tarot deck?
Geez, just stick a spoon up Tolkiens butt while you're at it.
Posted by Primal Curve (Member # 3587) on :
I know I'm a little late to the game, but are you sure those hotels have two Queen size beds? Most hotels have what are called "Double-Doubles" which are rooms with two double beds. A double is smaller than a Queen- and for good reason. Two queens are way to wide to fit into a standard hotel room. It's tough squeezing the two doubles in there as it is. There's very little room left over. I don't think I've ever worked for a hotel that had Queen sized beds. People ask me about this all the time at work and it's really frustrating. I don't get where the Queen thing comes from.
Posted by Xavier (Member # 405) on :
It would probably be safe to add me and Val as maybe's.
Neither of us have a clue whether we will be able to, but we both really want to...
Posted by fiazko (Member # 5812) on :
I am not making any decisions on specific activities, but I will definitely be there. I will hopefully know by next week whether I'll be in on the hotel arrangements or not. I'll explain when I know for sure.
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
they said Queens I think everywhere I put queens they said queens except maybe the Ramada.
I've stayed in quite a few with Queens instead of doubles. I mean not your average motel six, but most of these places are slightly higher scale to begin with.
AJ
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
Rivka I wouldn't wait on flights if you find a cheap one. There are basically only two airports you can fly into so you have to fly into one of the two regardless of where the hotel is.
AJ
Posted by TomDavidson (Member # 124) on :
Christy and I have a fairly large selection of board games, card games, and RPGs, as well as two very portable computers. I'm not sure about setting up a LAN, though, because most places don't let you keep the conference room overnight and don't provide security for those rooms.
We would need to ensure that both would be available before we start having people bring computers to plug in.
Frankly, I think we'll have enough to do without deathmatches -- and the hassle involved in setting them up. Posted by Farmgirl (Member # 5567) on :
CM -- make the list show Farmgirl AND IvyGirl (my daughter).
May even bring more than that if my sons want to come, but don't know about that yet.
Farmgirl
Posted by Christy (Member # 4397) on :
*giggle* Calvin Maker, I'm Tom's wife. I'll be coming as long as the little one allows.
[ April 15, 2004, 11:07 AM: Message edited by: Christy ]
Posted by katharina (Member # 827) on :
I had a dream about KamaCon last night.
The whole think took place on a quintupledecker bus which was driven around all day and pulled into the hotel parking lot at night. On the top deck, it swayed back and forth like the top of the Eiffel Tower. There was a Kids' area with crayons and a clown, and CT was watching them. There was an arcade where most of the boys were, and a movie theatre with pews instead of seats so people could spread out.
To get to the top deck of the bus, there was an escalator, but it wasn't stairs. Just a moving ramp at a steep angle, and Mack and I spent an amusing morning watching people balance up the ramp and slide down in on their backsides.
My friend Neil Barney from high school was there (NO idea why, except he'd undoubtedly fit in), and this guy that was in my ward a couple of years ago was there and came to and apologized for something and handed me a $1000 check for money he owed me (apparently my subconcious knew about Tax Day).
Somewhere, Olivet handed me a peanut butter and jelly sandwhich. Fugu and Zevlag were playing video games, and Taalcon was watching a movie in the theatre (on one of the pews) and drawing something.
There was a main party room, but I didn't go in there. I grabbed my backpack from the movie theatre and put on a bunch of gold jewelry. Then everyone had to crouch down and hold their breath as the quintupledecker bus squeezed under an overhang to roll back into the hotel parking lot.
----
Anyway, I think that means I'm definitely going.
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
Teleperion, any word on your hotel connections. I think we have enough information and need to make a decision soon otherwise.
AJ
Posted by sndrake (Member # 4941) on :
Yikes - I'll try to catch up with this thread later.
AJ - sorry for the post from a couple days ago. I am now pretty sure I have pneumonia and the low energy combined with the current project I can't really take time off on is making me really grumpy.
Fortunately, that's a good mode to be in for the work at hand - it just doesn't make put me in the "play well with others" frame of mind.
Drinking lots of fluids - give it another day or two to be sure of what I've got and then go refill my antibiotics prescription.
And sleep. Lots of sleep would be good.
[ April 15, 2004, 05:13 PM: Message edited by: sndrake ]
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
Hey I was grumpy that day too so it isn't a big deal.
I hope you feel better!
AJ
Posted by JonnyNotSoBravo (Member # 5715) on :
CalvinMaker, you need to add me to the list of maybe/probably people.
quote:CT wrote: I will arrange an Art Institute of Chicago trip on Day 2, if that part hasn't already been arranged. Anticipate 10am to 1pm, with at least 15 min at the Chagall stained glass windows, brief snack at the Russian Tearoom across the street to follow, my treat.
Like rivka just asked, I too want to know when Day 2 is. I don't want to miss a guided tour of the Art Institute! Ooh, and Annie has to come along to add background to some of the artists as well!
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
I can be upgraded to Pretty Darn Definite -- I just bought tickets.
FYI, anyone who can fly Spirit Air (it doesn't serve all cities) should consider doing so. Beat all other airlines by about $100 or more.
Posted by Farmgirl (Member # 5567) on :
*bump*
FG
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
All right guys I'm getting grouchy. WHERE DO YOU WANT TO STAY. I need input!!!!
AJ
Posted by Kama (Member # 3022) on :
Anywhere without cockroaches.
Posted by Farmgirl (Member # 5567) on :
Anywhere you put us, AJ. I'm not picky, and I trust your judgment.
Farmgirl
Posted by katharina (Member # 827) on :
Pick the hotel for those two days that assumes we will spend a lot of time in the hotel. That's the Ramada, right? That's sounds great. Posted by TomDavidson (Member # 124) on :
Well, the consensus seems to be that proximity to the city isn't essential, and that neighborhoods don't matter all that much, either. We need wheelchair access, low cost, and ideally 24-hour access to the conference rooms (which may be a sticking point -- I'm not aware of any hotel that offers this -- but the longer, the better.) We want at LEAST queen beds, and some people have asked for rooms to sleep more than four.
Which hotels have we listed that meet those criteria?
Posted by Kasie H (Member # 2120) on :
I would love love love to come and I actually think it might be feasible/possible....but I'd need someone to stay with in the hotel (cause I can't really afford it all by my lonesome), and I won't have a car/can't rent one (not 25)...does anyone see this being a problem?
CM, how exactly are you working all this out?
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
Honestly if we are going to spend all our time in the hotel I think the Holiday Inn in Skokie is better.
I'm really worried about the fact that the Ramada doesn't allow food in the conference room.
AJ
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
The other thing is that around O'Hare the air is, for lack of a better word, gritty. Even if we are staying in the hotel and just want to get out and get some exercise there isn't anyplace actually *decent* around O'Hare to go. There is in Skokie.
And food in general around O'Hare is highway robbery, not to mention parking.
AJ
Posted by katharina (Member # 827) on :
Okay.
How much more is the Holiday Inn is Skokie? That's not the hotel with no wheelchair access to the conference room, is it?
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
quote: Holiday Inn-Skokie Hospitality room >10 rooms $175/night </=10 rooms $50/night. Deli Catering ok. 2Q-$89/night >
Ramada-O Hare Conference room $75/day 8am-8pm NO FOOD ALLOWED (the minimum # of rooms on the quote is 15 even though I know I said 10 over the phone) 2 Double beds $69/night +$9/day parking
Both are handicap accessible. The hotel that wasn't is no longer under consideration.
[ April 19, 2004, 12:23 PM: Message edited by: BannaOj ]
Posted by katharina (Member # 827) on :
*deep breath* Can we fill more than ten rooms?
I think so.
Everyone, you hear that? You HAVE to come.
If the Holiday Inn has wheelchair access, I say we go there.
Posted by fugu13 (Member # 2859) on :
Uh, we're missing an = 10 rooms value.
Posted by Hobbes (Member # 433) on :
Well if they allow for fractional rooms, techincally we're missing no numbers, since 10 is one infinte of the range of numbers, and it's then even a smaller fraction than that zero if the hotel allows for irrational numbers of rooms.
<--*Just trying to be helpful*
Hobbes Posted by Farmgirl (Member # 5567) on :
picky, picky, Russ.
Go for it, AJ. Holiday Inn sounds great. If you reserve the rooms, do we then need to pay you, or just make payment when we show up?
Farmgirl
Posted by saxon75 (Member # 4589) on :
So, uh, if I wanted to attend but get my own room, would that make me a bad person?
Posted by fugu13 (Member # 2859) on :
Ah, but hotels do not allow for fractional rooms. Its a member of a set (and in fact, a very limited set, as there are only so many rooms in the hotel), and of that set its a very important member, because we only seem to need 10 rooms at most. If the conference room requires 11 rooms to get the cheap price, then we'll get the extra room because it will save a little overall, but it would be much better if we could just get 10 rooms.
And no, Hobbes, if we're missing 10 we're missing 10 (even if we're discussing the complete number line). It is not in the range of values given. It matters not at all what percentage of the range of values it is, its still missing. I suggest a good course on theoretical foundations of math (I learned a lot in one, myself).
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
OK you math geeks I changed it to include 10 rooms. AJ
Posted by TomDavidson (Member # 124) on :
Two questions, AJ:
How big is the Holiday Inn's "hospitality room," and how long per day will we have use of it? That'd affect what we can bring and leave out.
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
I believe we'd have the room 24/7. I know she told me the size, and that it was a little smaller than their official "conference rooms" but I don't have it written down. I'll call back this afternoon. I was under the impression it was like an oversized livingroom with more couch type furniture.
AJ
Posted by katharina (Member # 827) on :
Hey! Couches! Yay!
*remembers putting chairs to gether to create a place to lie down at WenchCon*
[ April 19, 2004, 01:39 PM: Message edited by: katharina ]
Posted by Hobbes (Member # 433) on :
Fugu, it's true that we'd still be missing 10, I was just pointing out that on the real number line, it was a meaningless loss. Infintly less important than lossing a molecule of oxygen out of our lungs is to us, for instance.
And if I was a hotel manager, I would rent out fractions, and irrational numbers of rooms.
<--*Pictures himself paritioning out to a customer pi rooms*
Though in further analysis, it's clearly a discontinous, non-differentiable fucntino. Not all piece-wise fucntions are, but this one clearly is, and the lack of the point in the function domain only exasterbates the problem.
Just like me not having ready acess to Word exasturbates my crappy spelling.
Hobbes
[ April 19, 2004, 02:00 PM: Message edited by: Hobbes ]
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
I'm still planning to come, but am not certain. I was planning on driving the van, but it's breaking...so I may have to use the money I have set aside for the trip to fix the van...in which case I'll have to save up again for the trip...
Posted by Farmgirl (Member # 5567) on :
Boon -- I thought you were catching a ride with Bob...
Farmgirl
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
If it's just me and Thomas, that would work...provided Bob is agreeable. If, however, DH and the kiddos come too...well...that's 5 of us. I don't think Bob has that many seats OR trunk room. Posted by fugu13 (Member # 2859) on :
Mathematical comparison can't be done indiscriminately among physical objects. Ten is of importance in the situation given because it is a boundary condition. A single molecule of oxygen is neither important nor a boundary condition.
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
So, BannaOJ, are you reserving 10 rooms plus the conference room? I know we've got Calvin's list of who's coming, but we really don't know of those how many are going to want to room 2 to a room, 4 to a room, or individually. If everyone on the list wants 4/room we'd be at exactly 10 rooms if ALL the maybes come, but I doubt everyone is going to want to go that way.
saxon75 it would not make you a bad person if you wanted to attend but have your own room. As long as you can pay for it, you can do whatever you want.
Do other people out there have thoughts as far as knowing who's rooming together or if you want to be by yourself? That would really help BannaOJ know how many rooms to reserve.
(I'm anticipating meeting Ryuko's Mom this week and us making a decision about coming shortly thereafter. If we do come, I'd imagine we'll be rooming together.)
[ April 20, 2004, 09:38 PM: Message edited by: ElJay ]
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
Ok tomorrow I'm reserving a block of 10 rooms at the Holiday Inn Skokie.
I hope at least 10 rooms get used. I'm sure they will be happy to accomodate more guests than that, because if we go higher they drop the conference room price more.
There are several ways we can arrange transportation to and from the airport. One is the train however it will involve train changes. Another option is for multiple people to join together and split the fare cost which is around $20 $20/4= $5 which isn't bad. A third option which I'm planning on doing but can't guarantee is running a shuttle of my own mini-van which can hold myself and 6 passengers.
AJ
Posted by Farmgirl (Member # 5567) on :
If it is just me & IvyGirl in my family going, we would probably want to share a room with other ladies, to split costs.
However, if my boys want to go, then it is a whole new ball game for me, especially as far as cost (travel up and staying, because we would have to do it all as a family). So I don't see that as a real possibility due to cost.
Farmgirl
Posted by Bob_Scopatz (Member # 1227) on :
Actually, as far as giving people rides, I think I may have to throw a wrench into that. It turns out that I have a business trip to the area the week before so instead of driving up from TX, I'll already be there.
dkw and I are planning to use the partial week to take care of some pre-wedding tasks (like our mandatory counseling sessions) and run around paying deposits and such.
So, I probably can't give anyone a ride up to KamaCon. Unless it's a ride from Iowa to Chicago...
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
That's okay, Bob. Actually, if I drive up I'll also be giving another person a ride to Indiana...so...it's all good. Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
Lalo I have to admit I don't think your sorry rear is going to make it to Chicago by then if you are pedaling. If I'm wrong, I'll gladly treat you to a steak dinner.
AJ
Posted by CalvinMaker (Member # 2032) on :
Kasie, I'll probably be taking a plane, considering my car would most likely break down on the way, plus the plane would be about the same price with gas and everything.
We can take the same flight though, and if you do that, you of course can get a ride with me to the airport.
Also, I'd prefer to split the room with as many people as possible. For me, cheaper=better.
Posted by Kama (Member # 3022) on :
<-- wants to room with people
Posted by Richard Berg (Member # 133) on :
Sifting through 5 pages as economically as possible, it seems there's a gathering in Chicago at the end of the summer to celebrate Kama's arrival (for how long?) in the U.S.
If I get a job, I may be able to come. Then again, if I don't have a job, I can definitely come
(edit) I'll room wherever, whoever...
[ April 20, 2004, 06:04 AM: Message edited by: Richard Berg ]
Posted by Kama (Member # 3022) on :
3 weeks, but not all in Chicago Posted by Frisco (Member # 3765) on :
I'll make the sacrifice and room with you, Kama.
I don't snore, but I steal the covers.
Posted by Kama (Member # 3022) on :
Wait. There are separate beds. Right? Right???
Posted by Richard Berg (Member # 133) on :
I figured we'd be piling 8 to room regardless, save for any preexisting couples. We band geeks lose privacy hangups at an early age.
Posted by xnera (Member # 187) on :
I may or may not get a room. It all depends on how my money situation is at the time. If I have the money, I will share a room with someone. If the money is bad, then I'm just gonna go home every night.
Posted by Papa Moose (Member # 5538) on :
I'd rather ask than sift through the thread again -- does the place we've decided on have suites as well as 2Q rooms? Either way our family will need its own, I think. If there are suites, we can probably rent out some floor space in the living room at very reasonable rates.
--Pop
Posted by dkw (Member # 3264) on :
quote: dkw and I are planning to use the partial week to take care of some pre-wedding tasks (like our mandatory counseling sessions) and run around paying deposits and such.
Eeep. Note to self – remember to make appointments for counseling sessions.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote: Our hotel has four floors and offers 244 spacious guest rooms with a variety of configurations which can accommodate a maximum of five people. 84 single rooms, 160 double rooms, 181 non-smoking rooms and excellent facilities for the disabled are available.
So doesn't look like they have suites, per se. But quite likely you can get two adjoining rooms with a connecting door.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Ooooh. Outlets!
quote: Old Orchard Shopping Malls: three miles
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
omg. I just realized the exact location of this place. This is going to be extremely convienent for me, even though I didn't realize it before now. I work less than 3 miles away. Also I think we will be quite close to a metra line.
I just called. They will be sending me the contract by the end of this week. If we go over 20 rooms we get the hospitality suite free. But a bloc of 10 will be reserved under KamaCon. All you will have to do is call Wendy and she will take care of you! I will give the phone number once I sign the contract. This contract also doesn't have a penalty fee if you don't fill the rooms so I feel much better about it than the Ramada. And small pets are allowed apparently <grin> though I'm planning on leaving mine at home.
AJ
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
The hospitality room does have couches and stuff.
I was uncertain as to whether people are going to be staying the night of Sunday the 15th. You will need to let her know and you will get that day at the same discount rate. I will have the hospitality room reserved for that day so that even if you are checking out you have a place to crash until you go to the airport.
AJ
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
also rivka it says there is a hebrew theological seminary less than a mile away so you may be able to walk to worship.
AJ
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Great, AJ! Thanks again for taking care of all these details.
Couple questions: what would be the cost of a room for three? For four?
And is it possible to get a fridge in the room, and how much extra would that run?
[Edit: I saw that, but it won't work for me. OTOH, there is a day school .7 miles away -- I'm emailing them to see if they have services there, or know of any nearby. ]
[ April 20, 2004, 12:22 PM: Message edited by: rivka ]
Posted by Farmgirl (Member # 5567) on :
Oooooo! They have a hot tub! (checking out the photo tour of the hotel).
I'm going to be in heaven!
Farmgirl
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
I believe it is $89 regardless of how many people are in the room. So $89/3 is $29.67 $89/4 is 22.25. I have no idea on the refridgerator. I would discuss that with Wendy. And we will be allowed to have kosher food delivered.
AJ
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
I started a separate thread for crucial info. Hopefully the "clutter" conversations will stay here. But I'm going to start posting metra links and stuff as I find them on that site for easy reference.
AJ
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
btw I didn't realize I was stressing about this, but deciding the actual hotel has just decreased my stress levels considerably!
AJ
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
In California, the room price goes up with each additional occupant -- and that's everywhere from bare-bones motels to hot-and-cold-running-bellboys places. Is that not true elsewhere?
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
It would be true but we have a flat rate due to the group reservation <grin>
AJ
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Cool! What about if we want an extra cot? I'm a sheet-and-pillow thief. Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
It's a Holiday Inn not a skanky motel on the side of the freeway in the middle of nowhere for crying out loud! I'm sure they would provide extra blankets and pillows upon request. I'm assuming you will politely tip the bellboy when he brings them.
Are you trying to make my life difficult rivka?
AJ
Posted by fugu13 (Member # 2859) on :
CT, about how much do you expect your morning expedition would cost?
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
In my experience, mid-range hotels are MORE likely to charge extra for such things as an extra cot.
And not really, but I'm just so good at it! *hides*
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
Yeah but the low end ones look at you and laugh when you want something extra
AJ
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Very true.
I'm not worried that it won't be available; I'm just trying to calculate costs.
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
we could always find a walmart. and if worse comes to worse we have lots of extra pilows at my house
AJ
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Ok, I think I wasn't clear. If Katie and Kama want to share a bed, or someone wants to take a chunk of floor; great. Otherwise, we're going to need another bed. So I was just trying to find out how much extra that would be.
When I've gone on weekend-things with groups at similar hotels, it's usually been about $10-20 extra per night.
Posted by Telperion the Silver (Member # 6074) on :
Meow...
Posted by Kama (Member # 3022) on :
I can share a bed.
Posted by katharina (Member # 827) on :
So can I. So we're good. Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Cool. I do pretty well at Playing Well With Others while awake -- not so much when asleep (or mostly so). Posted by Kama (Member # 3022) on :
You hear that, boys?
I'ma sleep with Katie!!!
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Uhoh. Does that make me the chaperone?
Posted by Bob_Scopatz (Member # 1227) on :
quote:Ooooh. Outlets!
Now, when I see this, I think: "Oh cool, a place to plug in my laptop."
Ah well...
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
You better hope those are a lot closer than 3 miles away . . .
Posted by Ryuko (Member # 5125) on :
Now, when I see this, I think: "Oh cool, a place to plug in my laptop."
Ah well...
I had that exact same thought, Bob...
Posted by katharina (Member # 827) on :
*grin* From what I remember, there's usually not a lot of sleep.
[ April 20, 2004, 04:18 PM: Message edited by: katharina ]
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
bumpage because I know that people were making hotel arrangements on this thread and I want it on the first page for reference
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
*bump*
Back to the front page with you!
Posted by kwsni (Member # 1831) on :
I'm going to try to run on even less sleep this time, cause all the fun stuff happened when I was asleep!
Ni!
Posted by mackillian (Member # 586) on :
I'll get yelled at if I don't sleep. Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
True.
But if I don't sleep, I'll need to yell at myself. So you won't be the only one sleeping.
Does that help at all, mack?
Posted by Farmgirl (Member # 5567) on :
*bump* again so that we can keep the attendance list on page 3 updated...
Farmgirl
Posted by Farmgirl (Member # 5567) on :
*bump* (sorry)
I just was seeing if there were any additions to who is coming to KamaCon....
What's the status on the t-shirts, as well?
Farmgirl
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
*bumped* for Space Opera
Also, maybe someone who knows who is coming can give us an updated list?
Posted by Farmgirl (Member # 5567) on :
Hey all,
I think I'm going to have to back out of KamaCon.
Finances, ya know.
Two of my three kids are going on a work mission with our church this summer, and that took a lot of $$$, and it is just two weeks before KamaCon.
Then KamaCon hits right at the time we have back-to-school supplies and fees (high school and college).
I had hoped to save up enough early in the year to be able to do it all this summer, but it hasn't happened - savings keeps getting eaten by car repairs and home repairs and other stuff.
I had really hoped to go, not only to see all of you (primary), but also because it is going to be my daughter's awesome 15th birthday present (Aug 13th) and because I have a younger sister in Chicago I wanted to see.
But right now, I just don't see anyway I could afford to do this realistically unless the heavens themselves opened up and poured money.
You all have a good time and post pictures!
Farmgirl
Posted by Theca (Member # 1629) on :
You can take me off the list too. I don't feel I belong on Hatrack anymore. I'm beginning to realize I never belonged here in the first place.
Posted by TomDavidson (Member # 124) on :
Hm. What's prompting that emotion, Theca? Drop me a line...?
Posted by Kama (Member # 3022) on :
People!!! Don't do this!
[ June 01, 2004, 09:36 AM: Message edited by: Kama ]
Posted by TomDavidson (Member # 124) on :
A lesson I learned from EnderCon was that 80% of all "I'm definitely going" people will, in fact, find some excuse not to go when the chips are down. Posted by Farmgirl (Member # 5567) on :
Thanks, Tom, for taking my present financial situation and making it "just an excuse" to not go to something I really really wanted to go to.
Farmgirl
Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
*hugs* it's ok Farmgirl.
Theca, if you don't come (and I'm still holding out hope you will because I think you are a wonderful jatraquera) can you mail me that book for Kama?
AJ
Posted by ElJay (Member # 6358) on :
Theca, I don't know how you define belonging on Hatrack. But I met you before I ever came here, and thought you were a lovely, thoughtful, interesting person, and was looking forward to seeing you again in August. I noticed I wasn't noticing many posts from you once I did start hanging out here, but I don't read all the threads and don't post all that often myself, so figured it was likely that either you were posting in different threads or primarily lurking... anyway, I guess my point is that even if you're not feeling too active/connected in the forum right now, you still could have a good time in Chicago in August. Not everyone is planning on running around from activity to activity, I'm sure there will be plenty of us primarily staying at the hotel, playing games, working on craft projects, and talking. Please consider it.
Farmgirl, I understand how expenses creep up on you. It'll be a total bummer not to have you and IvyGirl there, but if you can't do it you can't do it. And if money does start falling from the sky, you can certainly change your mind last minute and even if the hotel is full, we'll find places to put y'all. Posted by Ela (Member # 1365) on :
Theca, you should definitely go to Kamacon!!!
(Even though I can't go myself. )
You'll have a lot of fun meeting people. Posted by Space Opera (Member # 6504) on :
Sorry about the finances, Farmgirl. Those are tough, especially when you're a single mom.
Looks like my kids start school the Tues. after KamaCon, so I'm undecided about coming. Gonna talk to Mr. Opera about it tonight and see what he thinks.
space opera
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Farmgirl, I can totally understand where you're coming from. But I am so bummed that I won't get to meet you!
Theca, I was really looking forward to meeting you as well. I hope you change your mind and come.
Opera, hope y'all decide to come, but that is tight scheduling.
Posted by Marek (Member # 5404) on :
hmmmm, it would be sort of funny to go to KamaCon and meet someone from the town I live in.
*actually might be able to go*
Posted by katharina (Member # 827) on :
Yay!! Find roommates and reserve a room. Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Really, Marek? YAY! Posted by Marek (Member # 5404) on :
Yep rivka, really, even asked the folks today at lunch and they apparently aprove depending on finances. Dad just retired and he had been provideing a little over half the income of the house, so currently finances are a major concern, but yeah, I might be able to go, if you all will let me attend. *looks hopeful*
Posted by Jeni (Member # 1454) on :
I'm off the maybe list in this thread... though I imagine that list is rather outdated anyway.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
No Jeni?
*crosses fingers that Marek will be able to come*
Y'know, it's hard to type like this.
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
Wendy is only available between 9 and 5. I'll find a way to get ahold of her today, and I'll reserve the room for xnera under my name, which should be sufficient for AnnaJo's peace of mind, bringing the quota to (at least) 10.
I'm tendering my own regrets, as David and I will be attending to other matters at that time.
Posted by Farmgirl (Member # 5567) on :
I gotta quit reading these threads -- it makes me want to find a way to go so badly! <sigh> But, you know when we started planning this we were going to share rides up, and all that, and since that fell through it really changed the picture for me. I'm still holding out hope -- if I can get enough to drive up, I could stay with my sister (and not have any cost to that) although I would rather stay at the hotel with all of you...
no...I need to quit reading these KamaCon threads and just resign myself to staying home...
Space Opera -- did you ever decide if you are going?
Farmgirl
Posted by Papa Moose (Member # 1992) on :
<Is saddened that CT will not be attending.>
Posted by katharina (Member # 827) on :
Me too.
Posted by Papa Moose (Member # 1992) on :
Allow me to elucidate. Deeply, deeply saddened.
Posted by mackillian (Member # 586) on :
Dammit, I really really really really wanted to meet CT. Posted by Papa Moose (Member # 1992) on :
I was talking with my brother on the phone this past weekend (his birthday was Saturday), and while I mentioned it would be cool to see a number of different people from Hatrack, the only person I mentioned by (screen)name was CT. Not to belittle you other folks, but I did sorta figure that meeting her would be one of the highlights. I wanted to thank her in person for the help she has been (emotionally and informationally) when we went through our Mooselet traumas, for the kind things she has said so many times over, etc. And since no pictures are available, it was a chance to see what she looks like.
CT, while I certainly respect your (a) right and ability to make your own choices, and (b) need to "attend to other matters," please let us know if there's anything we (I) can do to entice you to re-alter your plans in such a way as to take part in KamaCon.
Just sayin'.
--Pop
Posted by mackillian (Member # 586) on :
I think it's me.
This is the third time I was supposed to have met CT and it fell through. Posted by katharina (Member # 827) on :
It's my second. Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
If I drove north on 75 to Kansas (from Tulsa, where I live)...and then had someone to help with the cost of fuel... Posted by Farmgirl (Member # 5567) on :
but Boon -- I thought you said you were going to take the whole family if you go.....
FG
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
Daddy can't go, so I could leave him here at the house with Dan and Jen...
DH can fend for himself.
Edit: so IF I could go, it would be me and Boo. Anybody wanna share a room with us?
[ June 29, 2004, 01:50 PM: Message edited by: Boon ]
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
Oh, yeah...and don't offer to share a room with us if breastfeeding in public squicks you out. Nighttime is the ONLY time I don't bother trying to hide the breastages. And I have to have a nightlight. And a bed. And 15 pillows. But I'll bring those myself. Posted by katharina (Member # 827) on :
I think RRR may still be looking for a roommate.
Posted by Rappin' Ronnie Reagan (Member # 5626) on :
I am and would gladly share a room with Boon. However, I might be sharing a room with Marek if he ever decides to come. So, basically, I have no idea.
Posted by Boon (Member # 4646) on :
I'll still have to discuss things with the Hubby, but it actually looks like I can AFFORD to go, even without a roomie! Yippee! That's 3/4 of the battle right there!
So, Farmgirl, if you wanna go, and I CAN go, you can ride with me. All you'll have to arrange is sleeping accommodations.
So, there it is. I'll talk to him tonight, and anyone wanting to share my room is welcome if I came. I'll let you know. Posted by Farmgirl (Member # 5567) on :
Thanks for the offer, Boon. Let me check again on my end as to how things stand and I'll let you know one way or the other...
Farmgirl
Posted by Lime (Member # 1707) on :
If you can make it as far as the Rockford area, you can carpool with us, Farmgirl.
Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
Sweet, sweet Papa Moose.
If I'm still in the States come KamaCon, I'll drive over for a day to visit the littluns at the hotel and do a trip to the Art Institute. However, I'm seriously considering watching the polar bears at Churchill if my David can swing conference funding to cover a trip up to the frozen North.
You are close in my heart, too. *warm hug
Edit 1: and mack and rivka and katharina and y'all who are so kind ... much love all around. We'll get together eventually. Too many strong ties not too. I'm just feeling "like butter scraped over too much toast," to quote an old friend, and I haven't it in me to get over that fast. But it'll come.
Edit 2: I missed Theca's sadness. I hope that time has passed for you, Theca -- I do consider you very much a part of this place.
Edit 3: Chalk me up for one of Tom's 80%. *rueful look But at least I'll still send money for the cause. Myself, though, I need to hold onto for awhile. Preferably sprawled on the tundra with cold wind in my face. Quiet time in Canada is where I feel at peace, and I'm just jealous enough to take that for my own. I need not to be needed by many people for a little while, if that makes sense. Not to be asked questions, not to be the butt of anger and frustration, not to be anything more than I have to be for my own sanity. That means paring down to my sweetheart, my good friends here in town, my books, and my work. Let a few scabs form over the raw places.
My new policy is to never say "yes" to any plans in advance -- the one sure way out of avoiding being one of that 80%. Plus, you get to tell yourself you are being "mysterious."
Still, though, I'll commit to the Care and Feeding of the next generation of the Davidsons. For whatever reason, that commitment feels light as a feather and very very precious to me.
[ June 29, 2004, 07:36 PM: Message edited by: ClaudiaTherese ]
Posted by katharina (Member # 827) on :
*hug* You take whatever you need, girly. Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
(((katharina)))
*whispers
Thanks.
Posted by katharina (Member # 827) on :
*hug* I never, ever want your tribe and those that love you here to be a drain. That's the nice thing about a community - everyone is needed, but there is some spreading of the responsibility. I know you, like anne kate, are so empathetic that you hurt when other people hurt and can't see a need without trying to respond. That tender heart is part of magical CT, but it also means that you need to not see it sometimes, and that's totally, completely good. I'm so glad you have a place and people to retreat to. Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
I know. And any hubris about being indispensible is just that -- hubris. We all have a role to play, and it's a big community.
I'll be quiet now, and I do feel lots better. But I'll always remember this kindness from you, Katie.
(Time, finally, to go home.)
Posted by Primal Curve (Member # 3587) on :
So... now that I'm back on board the gravy train o' the internet... I can get back to the important things in life: figuring out if I can still come to KamaCon and who'll stay with me or who still needs roommates.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
We're being spurned for polar bears. Oh, the shame!
Seriously, CT, I selfishly hope that you are able to drop in at KamaCon -- coming and leaving in that unexpected and mysterious way that is your wont; but I 1000% agree that taking care of YOU for a change is in order. You do so much taking care of others, both here and in that oh-so-draining job of yours. (((((CT)))))
It's like oxygen masks.
*idly wonders if we could just fly in a couple polar bears for CT*
*imagines what polar bears could do to hotel rooms*
*imagines saying bye-bye to any and all security deposits*
Oh well. Posted by ClaudiaTherese (Member # 923) on :
Love you, rivka. Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
*feels squishy* Posted by BannaOj (Member # 3206) on :
JNSB is looking for male roommates.
Pasting this from the other Kama Con thread.
quote: Well I can say I averted a nuclear disaster today at work.
(It was only keeping the head of our nuclear department from throwing a tantrum which she is infamous for, but hey, we are cool enough to Have a nuclear department.)
While I was out saving the world before bedtime, I recieved an e-mail from an anonymous donor, saying that they would be interested in sponsoring a room for those who could not otherwise attend due to financial constraints. Teleperion and Farmgirl were mentioned specifically.
Due to its nature it might end up being a co-ed room. If there is enough interest this person will pay for a room, but they want to know it will be used before they do so.
AJ
Posted by mackillian (Member # 586) on :
CT: heal thyself, my friend. Posted by Farmgirl (Member # 5567) on :
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Email me if anyone else is still interested -- we can do it privately, as a Welcome to the States gift pooled from all of us, or it can be a direct gift. No matter to me, I'm just your friendly conduit.
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I think this would be better if we can't find a place for less than $200 a day.
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Of course, I suppose I could consider it a fun birthday trip! But it would break my tradition of going to the 510 for my birthday. ![[Kiss]](graemlins/kiss.gif)
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my job is either feast or famine and today is crazy. Stupid people tell me that they are sending me 8 parts for testing and instead up the number to 24 and I have to scramble to rush order more glassware to test the darn things in at least his department is paying for it.. ![[ROFL]](graemlins/rofl.gif)
So utterly true.
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