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Off Topic Forums => Forums Gatherings => Topic started by: AMG Coordinator on November 16, 2006, 09:07:54 am

Title: AMG '07 Ballot - RESULTS
Post by: AMG Coordinator on November 16, 2006, 09:07:54 am
We have collected and reviewed all suggestions posted and believe this ballot best reflects the compiled comments from members.  Because one of the options necessitated moving between two locations midway through the Gathering, we don’t believe this is a viable option due to logistics.  Voting will remain open until November 30, 2006.

Item #1 – Location

Please indicate your #1, #2 and #3 preferences from the following choices.

Las Vegas, NV
Russian River Area, CA
San Francisco, CA
Vancouver, BC
Cruise departing from Long Beach or Los Angeles, CA


Your #1 preference will be given a value of 3.  Your #2 preference will be given a value of 2.  Your #3 preference will be given a value of 1.

Item #2 – Time Frame

Please indicate your #1 and #2 preferences as to month to hold the event.

August 2007
September 2007

Your #1 preference will be given a value of 2.  Your #2 preference will be given a value of 1.

Ric and Anne
AMG '07 Co-Coordinators
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot
Post by: Jerry71 on November 16, 2006, 09:27:07 am
#1 Russian River Area, CA
#2 San Francisco, CA
#3 Vancouver, BC



#1 September 2007
#2 August 2007
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot
Post by: Dan J. on November 16, 2006, 11:20:00 am
#1. Russian River Area, CA
#2. San Francsico, CA
#3. Vancover, BC.

#1. September 2007
#2. August 2007
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot
Post by: heartforyou on November 16, 2006, 12:00:46 pm
Thanks for the Ballot.

Location
#1 : Russian River
#2 : San Fransisco
#3 : Vancouver

Time Frame
#1 : September 07
#2 : August 07

Hermie
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot
Post by: Razorbill on November 16, 2006, 03:29:42 pm
1 russian River
 2 SF
3 Vancouver

1Aug
2 Sept
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot
Post by: OzPaul on November 16, 2006, 08:03:58 pm
#1 Russian River
#2 San Francisco
# 3 Vancouver

#1 August
#2 Sept.

Thanks for the ballot !!!

Paul
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot
Post by: Iggy on November 16, 2006, 08:41:27 pm
.
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot
Post by: DingoBoi on November 16, 2006, 09:08:26 pm
can we add links to what these areas offer?   I don't recollect some of them like russian river and frankly i'm too lazy to go back and find any original links.
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot
Post by: Basquo on November 16, 2006, 10:00:32 pm
#1. Russian River Area, CA
#2. San Francsico, CA
#3. Vancover, BC.

#1. September 2007
#2. August 2007


I've decided to be flexible about the month. I want to see as many attend as possible.

iVIVA LA AMG!
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot
Post by: Robert on November 16, 2006, 10:09:29 pm
Bailey.

Here is a quick synopsis of the three choices:

For information on the   RUSSIAN RIVER  (http://www.russianrivertravel.com/) here is what Joseph (Strayboi) had to say:

Quote
Guerneville is a cozy little hamlet nestled deep within the heart of healing redwood trees in Western Sonoma County. Established in the late 1800's as a logging town, it was known as “Stumptown” for the countless number of redwood tree stumps left by the loggers who pillaged the forests for the raw materials they provided. It was later named Guerneville after a local mill Owner by the last name of Guerne who carved a living milling on the river.

From the early 1920's through the 50's, The Russian River was a booming, thriving area; a retreat for many bay area residents and many early decade Hollywood Stars.  Big Bands of the era (Tommy Dorsey, Benny Goodman, and others) were drawn to the area, favoring several local venues.

With the Technology boom in California, and further developments of local wineries in Sonoma County in the latter half of the 1900’s, Guerneville was rediscovered as a resort town, primarily by the homosexual community.  Many residents of the area, during the AIDS pandemic of the early 80's, moved there seeking solitude and serenity in the beauty of the area, in hope of living out what they believed to be their last years in comfort.

Today, Guerneville has become a welcoming community of hospitable survivors - Straight, Gay, Negative, Positive, and the like.  And is still a favored vacation spot for Bay Area residents.  Surrounded by mountains and lush redwood forests, the People of the Russian River, unlike the those of San Francisco, observe a sunny and warm climate Spring through Fall (June through late September), interrupted by only a long rainy season.

Through its history Guerneville's rustic charm has been preserved.  Through state laws prohibiting the further destruction of redwood trees, land developing has been kept to a minimum, and local laws prohibit big businesses from forming along the river.  Its economy is tourist based, there are several resorts within town limits, and the locals are exceptionally friendly.

Guerneville is a small town; its Main Street is approximately three blocks long and is comprised of mom-and-pop shops, watering holes, and diners and any of the buildings still look as they did in 1920.  Rich in community and spirit, it is a town that time has truly forgotten.



Here is an example of what a  CRUISE ITINERAY  (http://www.carnival.com/Itinerary.aspx?subRegionCode=MB&embkCode=LAX&itinCode=LA8&shipCode=PA&durDays=4) might look it.


Here is the  OFFICIAL VANCOUVER, BC  (http://www.tourismvancouver.com/visitors/) web page.  (I've always thought Vancover must be what SF was like 40 years ago.)


We all know  Las Vegas  (http://lasvegas.com/) is 24 hour Barry Manilow.

As for San Francisco, well it's always a welcome site for sore eyes.

robert
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot
Post by: Robert on November 16, 2006, 10:11:49 pm
1:  Russian River

2:  San Fransicso

3:  Cruise


Dates: 

1:  Sept (mid to end)

2:  August
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot
Post by: bocker3 on November 16, 2006, 10:30:14 pm
#1 Russian River
#2 Vancouver, BC
#3 Cruise

#1 Aug 2007
#2 Sept 2007

Thanks for your efforts here -- I look forward to finally putting faces to names -- at some point, in some place!

Hugs,
Mike
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot
Post by: livingpositively on November 16, 2006, 10:31:57 pm
1. San Francisco

2. Vancouver

3. Russian River


1.  September

2.  August
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot
Post by: DingoBoi on November 17, 2006, 12:21:42 am
1. San Francisco

2. Vancouver

3. Russian River


1.  September

2.  No vote because I don't wish to give any points to a month I won't like
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot
Post by: MSPspud on November 17, 2006, 01:20:53 pm
1.  Las Vegas
2.  Vancouver
3.  Russian River

1.  September
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot
Post by: Javicho on November 17, 2006, 01:56:54 pm
#1 Vegas
#2 San Francisco


#1 September
#2 August
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot
Post by: pozguy75 on November 17, 2006, 02:21:27 pm
#1 Russian River
#2 San Francisco
# 3 Cruise

#1 August
#2 Sept.
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot
Post by: anniebc on November 17, 2006, 06:27:46 pm
#1..Russian river
#2..San Fransisco
#3..Vancouver BC

#1..September
#2..August.

Apart from the AMG (where ever it will be) I will be doing a side trip to Vegas..just thought I would put that in as a gentle reminder for Rocky and Mark so they don't forget... ;).

Hugs
Jan :-*
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot
Post by: AlanBama on November 18, 2006, 12:39:23 am
#1..Russian River
#2..San Fransisco
#3..Vancouver BC

#1..September
#2..August

I hope I will be able to go.  :-\      At this time, I can't see it, but I'm holding out for a miracle....hey, it happened this year!
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot
Post by: JohnOso on November 18, 2006, 02:57:49 am
1) Russian River
2) San Francisco
3) Vancouver

1) September
2) August
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot
Post by: pozatlguy on November 18, 2006, 06:39:01 pm
#1..Vancouver BC
#2..Russian River
#3..San Fransisco


#1..September
#2..August
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot
Post by: carousel on November 18, 2006, 09:34:29 pm
.
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot
Post by: OzPaul on November 18, 2006, 10:13:15 pm
This is a comment about what Carousel has just posted.

What certainty do we (the Forums) have that people from out side the USA could get into the country given the travel restrictions in place ? It seems that there has been some discussion here on this topic over time but perhaps this needs to be, or could be talked about a bit further before a decision is made. It seems that it's a given in the choice of AM Gathering location, that folks won't have trouble entering the USA. Given the severe bag checks etc. at this time (and the foreseeable future) It seems this should be discussed.

Perhaps some of our members who've had recent experience entering the USA could chime in with their experiences ?

two more cents

Paul
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot
Post by: heartforyou on November 19, 2006, 06:11:24 am
I flew into Washington DC from Europe last month.
The focus really was on fluids and potential weapons.
You must have the fluids, only small amounts, in a zip-pocked plastic bag, and ready to present it to the security officer.

I found the interrogation prior to checking in at the airport really focused on not having received foreign packages and never having left your baggage out of sight etc.

I really don't think medication should be a problem.
the US has other problems right now.

I will fly to Atlanta next week and will post again about the issue when I am back.

hermie
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot
Post by: RAB on November 19, 2006, 07:40:03 pm
Location

1.  Russian River CA
2.  Vancouver BC
3.  San Francisco CA

Date

1.  September 2007
2.  August 2007


Comment regarding immigration policy:

This isn't an easy decision for anyone I suspect.  There is no easy solution as far as I can tell.

For me, the possibility of holding the gathering in the US and the impact that might have on some member's decision to consider attending weighs very heavy on my heart.

Just as the fact that the travel costs of going to Vancouver might also impact others from possibly attending.

Since we gave weighted consideration by electing to go to Canada for the 1st two gatherings, I'm holding my nose and voting for a location in the US this time.

On a personal note.  In the event the gathering is held in the US, and if there is any non US member who I can give assistance in attending, like mailings or whatever, I will do that.  (details need not be discussed publicly if you know what I mean)

RAB
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot
Post by: mjmel on November 20, 2006, 05:55:47 am
1. Vancouver
2. Russian River
3. San Francisco

Either month
*Edited to be flexible. ;)
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot
Post by: David_CA on November 20, 2006, 04:20:45 pm
Before I vote, I'd want to know what type of accommodations there are in the Russian River area.  I haven't seen a lot when I've looked online.  That might make a pretty big difference in the cost of the trip.  I've been able to find lots of places in S.F. and Vancouver, but not much for R.R.  Also, do folks simply PREFER September?  I know several here, due to school, probably won't be able to attend in September.  Perhaps a 3rd choice of 'it doesn't matter' as to the date would be appropriate.

David
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot
Post by: Razorbill on November 20, 2006, 04:29:39 pm
the time thing may be driven by personal prefernces rather than accommodating individuals - fall breezes may outweigh inclusiveness - such is the way of the world - thanks David for the suggestions
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot
Post by: Jody on November 20, 2006, 09:10:50 pm
1 - Vancouver (never been there)
2 - Russian River (never been there)
3- San Francisco (its been 25 years)

1- September
2 - August

Jody  ;)

Either month works fine for me as well.

Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot
Post by: Dennis on November 20, 2006, 09:56:44 pm
Here's a link that includes links and information to accomodations in the area of Russian River.

http://www.russianriver.com/accommodations.htm





Before I vote, I'd want to know what type of accommodations there are in the Russian River area.  I haven't seen a lot when I've looked online.  That might make a pretty big difference in the cost of the trip.  I've been able to find lots of places in S.F. and Vancouver, but not much for R.R.  Also, do folks simply PREFER September?  I know several here, due to school, probably won't be able to attend in September.  Perhaps a 3rd choice of 'it doesn't matter' as to the date would be appropriate.

David
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot
Post by: chadnla on November 20, 2006, 11:42:22 pm
#1 russian river (this was easy..men+water=sexy swim trunks)
#2 vancouver (heard the bar dancers can dance naked)
#3 SF, CA (nothing more to say but Great City)

timeframe
#1 Aug 07
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot
Post by: woodshere on November 21, 2006, 09:12:34 am
Although a newer member definately interested in attending!!!

#1 - RR
#2 - Van
#3 - SF

Time:
Absolutely no preference!
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot
Post by: Cliff on November 21, 2006, 04:54:50 pm
1. San Francisco
2. Vancouver
3. Las Vegas


1.  Aug.
2.  Sept.

*Will try to also do the side trip to Las Vegas.
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot
Post by: Lou-ah-vull on November 21, 2006, 06:17:04 pm
1.  Russian River
2.  Las Vegas
3.  San Francisco (although I would be just as happy with Vancouver)

1.  August
2.  September

Gary
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot
Post by: Dennis on November 21, 2006, 06:56:07 pm
1.  Las Vegas
2.  San Francisco
3.  Russian River

1.  August
2.  September
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot
Post by: Longislander on November 22, 2006, 12:17:42 am
1-San Francisco
2-Russian River
3-cruise



1-Sept
2-Aug
(month really would depend on warmer weather depending where it is, I just need to know before February for vacation scheduling at work!)


EDITED because I misread the instructions!!
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot
Post by: allanq on November 23, 2006, 03:21:39 pm
Those voting for Las Vegas might want to check the following website:  Las Vegas weather (http://off2vegas.com/weather.html)

Average high temperature in August is 103 F, and in September it's 96 F. If the beginning of September is selected, then the average high temperatures would probably be higher than the 96 shown for the whole month.

Even though it's dry, a temperature of 100 can make it pretty uncomfortable for all those nice outdoor activities that have been mentioned.
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot
Post by: Eldon on November 24, 2006, 09:14:44 pm
#1..San Fransisco
#2..Vancouver BC --- (is a site to behold, have been there several times)
#3..Cruise

#1..August
#2..September
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot
Post by: aztecan on November 27, 2006, 10:51:26 am
I could swear I had posted something to this.  ???

Anyway, my choices are:

1 Russian River.

2 Vancouver

3 San Francisco

Just cause.

Oops, forgot to choose a date. I am OK with either August or September. I just need some advance notice.

HUGS,

Mark
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot
Post by: Ric Wilke on November 27, 2006, 07:12:15 pm
#1  Russian River Area
#2  Vancouver BC
#3  San Franscisco, CA

#1  September
#2  August


Either month is fine with me.
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot
Post by: Oceanbeach on November 27, 2006, 09:21:32 pm
#1 Russian River- I live here
#2 San Francisco- It is an hour away and an easy drive
#3 Vancouver- Easier for international travelers



#1 August 2007- The river is nice in August
#2 September 2007- The coldest winter I ever experienced was a Summer in San Francisco

Have the best day
Michael
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot
Post by: Thom Martin on November 27, 2006, 11:56:55 pm
#1  Russian River
#2  Vancouver
#3  San Francisco

#1  September
#2  August


I'm okay with either month.
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot
Post by: David_CA on November 28, 2006, 12:28:59 pm
#1 San Francisco
#2 Vancouver
#3 Las Vegas

#1 August ('cause that's the time D can attend due to school)

I'd also like to add that if some folks can be flexible as to the dates of AMG, it might be nice to note that.  I personally would like to see as many as possible attend, and a little flexibility might make it possible for this to happen.

David
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot
Post by: emeraldize on November 29, 2006, 08:38:44 am
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
#1  Russian River Area
#2  Vancouver BC
#3  San Franscisco, CA

#1  September
#2  August

Either month would work for me.
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot
Post by: BikerGuy on November 29, 2006, 03:00:58 pm
#1 San Francisco
#2 Vancouver
#3 Las Vegas

#1 August
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot
Post by: willw on November 29, 2006, 11:58:20 pm
First time logging in....
vote for San Fran in Sept For the Gathering.
 I enjoyed this years activites in Mon, Can
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot
Post by: Razorbill on December 13, 2006, 06:37:15 am
So what's the deal?  When might we expect an announcement by the committee?
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot
Post by: mjmel on December 13, 2006, 08:07:27 am
I was thinking of posting the same inquiry as previous poster. When will votes be tallied/results officially announced?

P. S. Given the recent Bush announcement of easying-up on HIV+'s  entering our country, I'd reverse the order of my votes..........San Francisco would be easier for folks to get around in (transit system) and I think folks outside of U.S. can now consider attending--perhaps some would consider now--but I understand that the ballots are closed and that some folks need to know ASAP for allotment of vacation time.
I don't think Bush/administration will drag their collective feet on this matter. I can hope they don't, anyway.
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot
Post by: Dachshund on December 13, 2006, 08:58:21 am


                          San Francisco




                          September
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot
Post by: SFscruff on December 13, 2006, 11:23:20 am
San Francisco in September as most of the summer tourists are gone and the fog rolls in off the Pacific to keep things cool. 
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot - RESULTS
Post by: AMG Coordinator on December 13, 2006, 01:33:33 pm
Here are the results of the balloting.

Location
Russian River Area - 78
San Francisco - 65
Vancouver - 53
Las Vegas - 14
Cruise - 5

Time Frame
September - 50
August - 47

The next step is the planning process will be to lock in the accommodation location and nightly rate.

Happy Holidays to all,
Ric and Anne
Co-Coordinators
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot - RESULTS
Post by: David_CA on December 13, 2006, 10:26:28 pm
Let's not forget the transportation needs to get from airports to this area.  This is something to be researched as well.  We might all end up needing vehicles to and from the airport, since we'll be arriving and departing at different times.  I know D and I (and others) won't be able to attend in Sept, anyway due to school.
 :( 

David
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot - RESULTS
Post by: allanq on December 13, 2006, 11:22:00 pm
Guerneville, the main town in the Russian River area, is 85 miles from the San Francisco airport and the same distance from the Oakland airport. It's a two-hour drive, if you don't hit rush hour traffic.

Whether you fly into San Francisco (SFO) or Oakland (OAK), I can't think of any simple way to get from the airport to Guerneville by public transportation. You really do need a car.

I live in Oakland and could arrange to meet up to three people at the Oakland airport for the drive up to the Russian River. Of course, you'd have to arrange to arrive at approximately the same time. Also, I would want to do the drive during daylight.

It would be wise to check the fares for both airports. Southwest and Jet Blue are two low-cost airlines that fly out of Oakland (but not San Francisco). If you decide to end your trip with a few days in San Francisco, it is easy to get from S.F. to the Oakland airport by public transportation.

Allan
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot - RESULTS
Post by: Oceanbeach on December 14, 2006, 02:13:37 am
I live on the river, August is the best time.  The river is warm and clean, the sun is terific and everything is open.

I don't know about the prices but  the Dawn Ranch, which was last known as Fife's is a great location, on the river and with cocktails and dining on premises.  There is another resort across the street called Sonoma Inn and Spa, it was formerly known as Creekside Inn.  It is also within walking distance of everything.  Remember this is a small town with a population of around 1200 people.

Using public transportation, the trip can be done, it would probably take 4-5 hours from the airport to Guerneville, maybe even more.  I have heard it takes 2 hours to use the bus to get to Santa Rosa and it about 20 miles direct.

Would it be a benefit if visitors from other countries had a place to ship their meds ahead of time?  I believe the Russian River Health Clinic may be able to help.  Anyway, let me know if you need some help.  Have the best day
Michael 
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot - RESULTS
Post by: JohnOso on December 14, 2006, 04:01:06 am
Count me in with help in transporting folks.  I live closer to Oakland Airport than San Francisco Intl (SFO), but would also be willing to pick up from Sacramento Airport or San Jose International if those are the only options for people (between the latter two, i believe Sacramento is closer -- just a thought).

As Allan said, historically Oakland Airport has lower fares than San Francisco, but sometimes SFO can have a sale that beats either Southwest or JetBlue.  Obviously the nonstop international flights will all land at SFO.

That's really a close vote on the time of the gathering.   :o
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot - RESULTS
Post by: Strayboy74 on December 28, 2006, 04:28:52 pm
#1 Russian River
#2 Las Vegas
#3 San Francisco

Oh yeah, and although August is the best time to be on the river, September is a lot cheaper.

-joseph
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot - RESULTS
Post by: mjmel on January 01, 2007, 03:23:08 pm
Edited: retracted question.
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot - RESULTS
Post by: northernguy on February 02, 2007, 11:39:39 pm
Wow, I can't believe we came in third :( 

If you haven't been here, click here to see what you're missing:
http://www.katkam.ca/pix/20050207/20050207140000.jpg
Title: Re: AMG '07 Ballot - RESULTS
Post by: RAB on February 03, 2007, 10:56:46 am
Hey NGuy

Don't take it personally, Vancouver is truly a beautiful city (is that the Granville Bridge?), I think it just came down to the travel costs.

Thanks for the pic, and maybe you can join us in SF.

RAB