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Off Topic Forums => Forums Gatherings => Topic started by: phildinftlaudy on August 11, 2010, 09:40:19 pm

Title: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: phildinftlaudy on August 11, 2010, 09:40:19 pm
Hi All:

Only having been on the Forums for about 7 months, I am new to how the whole selection of AMG goes, in terms of voting, when suggestions and voting typically starts, etc. --- that was my disclaimer.....

So, I know that I have read a couple of suggestions for AMG 2011, such as Austin and New Orleans.  I plan on being at it wherever it occurs.

An idea I had, perhaps to have AMG 2011 be on a cruise ship.  4 day cruises out of Miami in August 2011 start at $270 per person; 5 day cruises start at $470. 

For those that have never been on one, they are beautiful.  All the food is included - lots of on-board activities, shows, etc.  The ports are great to see, with various activities offered at each.  I have been to the Bahamas, Cozumel, Mexico, Key West, San Juan.... Also, have parasailed, jet skied, and of course there are plenty of places to eat and drink -- or just lay out at the pool, some have movie theaters, etc.

There would be the ability to have the Remembrance/Members Lost service at sunset or at sunrise while out on the ocean.

For those who worry about seasickness - I thought I would have it on my first one, but I literally took one Dramamine and didn't need anymore the rest of the time.

This is just one suggestion.  I definitely want to be involved in the planning from ground up - especially after all of the support I have gotten from everyone on here.

Thoughts and can anyone school me on who typically initiates the planning (i.e. voting, etc.)  Thanks!

-Phil
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: ElZorro on August 11, 2010, 09:54:50 pm
OMG! I'm so glad you posted this! I've been having the same thoughts. I love cruises because they are relatively inexpensive, "almost" all inclusive, and someone else does the driving.

I just felt like I was too new to raise the subject and was hoping to be allowed to "tag along" next year when this group gets together again!  :P

Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: Miss Philicia on August 11, 2010, 10:01:33 pm
Cruises have been suggested at least the past couple of years, but I've always gotten the feeling that a lot of attendees are looking for the urban experience (maybe I'm wrong).  That said, a cruise to the Caribbean in August is pure folly (high humidity), though I suppose it's no worse than going to New Orleans that time of year.  If I travel in the summer I want to leave the heat, not go somewhere worse.

*cough* Seattle *cough*
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: phildinftlaudy on August 11, 2010, 10:07:37 pm
Cruises have been suggested at least the past couple of years, but I've always gotten the feeling that a lot of attendees are looking for the urban experience (maybe I'm wrong).  That said, a cruise to the Caribbean in August is pure folly (high humidity), though I suppose it's no worse than going to New Orleans that time of year.  If I travel in the summer I want to leave the heat, not go somewhere worse.

*cough* Seattle *cough*
Being out on the ocean - the heat actually isn't as bad - but I definitely hear you Ms. P.
Maybe we could do something before August or slightly after August???
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: Hellraiser on August 11, 2010, 10:35:18 pm
The problem with a cruise (as I see it) is that unlike a city EVERYone must be on the same time table.  I plan to save my vacation for the upcoming year in order to be able to make the next AMG, but I think any sort of "event" style outing is not necessarily the best of ideas because then everyone has to be on board and be on the same time tables.  Sometimes people want to have the option of being together and then splitting apart.

I would also like to note that new orleans hasn't been as hot as the northeastern and northwestern corridors quite a lot this summer.
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: phildinftlaudy on August 11, 2010, 10:43:50 pm
The problem with a cruise (as I see it) is that unlike a city EVERYone must be on the same time table.  I plan to save my vacation for the upcoming year in order to be able to make the next AMG, but I think any sort of "event" style outing is not necessarily the best of ideas because then everyone has to be on board and be on the same time tables.  Sometimes people want to have the option of being together and then splitting apart.

I would also like to note that new orleans hasn't been as hot as the northeastern and northwestern corridors quite a lot this summer.
Good point Trey --
There are one day cruises to the Bahamas from Miami  --- LOL
Seattle has good weather in August.
San Fran also
of course there are locations outside the US that would be fun also -
I'm interested to read other suggestions..
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: ElZorro on August 11, 2010, 10:52:08 pm
Just curious, but is the AMG always in August and, if so, is there a significance to that month? 

I've taken the cruises from Tampa, Miami, and Canaveral several times throughout the year. The toughest thing about summer cruises is worrying if there's gonna be a tropical disturbance to screw things up  ???

You can do as little or as much as you want, though, with whomever you want.
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: Miss Philicia on August 11, 2010, 11:03:02 pm
IIRC a couple of the annual attendees are teachers so August was always a good fit.  Plus once you do it that month it's hard to suddenly do it again the next year but in February six months later.  But whatever, it's put to a vote annually but it's never changed as far as I can remember.
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: Hellraiser on August 11, 2010, 11:07:17 pm
IIRC a couple of the annual attendees are teachers so August was always a good fit.  Plus once you do it that month it's hard to suddenly do it again the next year but in February six months later.  But whatever, it's put to a vote annually but it's never changed as far as I can remember.

The people in school (David and Phil?) also have free time during the summer.
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: ElZorro on August 11, 2010, 11:12:32 pm
That makes sense. I wasn't sure if it was commemorative of an important HIV/AIDS event that I wasn't aware of or something. It sure sounds like a lot of fun and that a lot of life-long friendships have been formed. How did the jumping go?  8)
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: phildinftlaudy on August 11, 2010, 11:25:08 pm
The people in school (David and Phil?) also have free time during the summer.
I plan on attending wherever and whenever it is.  I agree that August would be a hot month and somewhat unpredictable in regards to storms for a cruise.  I also agree that it would be a problem for those who want to have more flexibiility on their length of stay.

I was just putting an idea out there.  I really wanted to know the process of selection and when that typically occurs.  I think that early planning is key to getting good rates (if locations are booked early, rates are sometimes lower).  It also gives those who want to attend the opportunity to plan accordingly - vacation, time off work, finances, etc.

Hopefully, we can formally get the process started of site selection -- I am just seeking guidance and don't want to step on anyone's toes  :)
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: max123 on August 12, 2010, 12:06:48 am
The people in school (David and Phil?) also have free time during the summer.
i'll be doing summer clinics...but if it's closeby, i might show
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: Ravhyn on August 12, 2010, 12:31:12 am
IF AMG was on a cruise next year I wouldn't be able to make it the sun makes my skin break out in a rash, not to mention I'm hydrophobic.  But if it were in a city that would be cool.

My votes on Nashville lol. New Orleans would be cool too though. 
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: gemini20 on August 12, 2010, 04:30:25 am
Just curious, but is the AMG always in August and, if so, is there a significance to that month? 

The official AMG was actually in May in London this year - it hasn't always been in August or always in the US either.

The past routine is for people to suggest places for the AMG to be held then after a few weeks the top two or three suggestions are then put to the vote, place with the highest vote wins.

Emma
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: phildinftlaudy on August 12, 2010, 08:08:03 am
The official AMG was actually in May in London this year - it hasn't always been in August or always in the US either.

The past routine is for people to suggest places for the AMG to be held then after a few weeks the top two or three suggestions are then put to the vote, place with the highest vote wins.

Emma
Thanks Emma!
I remember when I "officially" joined the forums there was a lot of discussion going on related to finalizing site selection for the AMG - with London being chosen.  I know that the process also had a lot of "lively" discussion around location  :)
I appreciate you sharing some additional information regarding site selection process and the month it is held.
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: Dennis on August 12, 2010, 10:04:58 am
I wouldn't mind New Orleans or even Orlando.
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: phildinftlaudy on August 12, 2010, 10:14:27 am
I wouldn't mind New Orleans or even Orlando.
Hi Dennis -
Yeah, Orlando would have a lot to do and is pretty convenient and economical.  I have a good friend of 25+ years who is an Exec. at Disney and could probably work out a good group discount rate for either park admit or/and lodging.

I know you have been one of the primary organizer's of AMGs and get togethers -- and I definitely don't want to step on anyone's feet -- will you be setting up a thread for site selection/voting?
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: carousel on August 12, 2010, 10:47:38 am
I wonder if it would be realisitc to have a cruise with people coming from all over.  Those prices seem pretty cheap, just wondering if they're a bit basic.

Never been to Orlando, but what about those who can't or don't want to do theme parks.  Oh and I forgot, I hate (most) lkids.

I thought AMG have tended to be in cities, where it's possible to get around easily (for those who don't drive).

Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: Dennis on August 12, 2010, 11:26:39 am
Hi Dennis -
Yeah, Orlando would have a lot to do and is pretty convenient and economical.  I have a good friend of 25+ years who is an Exec. at Disney and could probably work out a good group discount rate for either park admit or/and lodging.

I know you have been one of the primary organizer's of AMGs and get togethers -- and I definitely don't want to step on anyone's feet -- will you be setting up a thread for site selection/voting?

You're not stepping on anyone's toes, Phil.  I'm stepping back from having anything to do with the voting or selection of the AMG location other than voicing my suggestion.  After the destination is chosen I'll help wherever needed.  In the meantime, I think this thread is working out great for starting the discussion of next years location.
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: phildinftlaudy on August 12, 2010, 11:52:38 am
You're not stepping on anyone's toes, Phil.  I'm stepping back from having anything to do with the voting or selection of the AMG location other than voicing my suggestion.  After the destination is chosen I'll help wherever needed.  In the meantime, I think this thread is working out great for starting the discussion of next years location.
Hi Everyone:

If members don't mind, if you start providing suggestions for next year's AMG, I will start compiling a list and we can move towards selection of a location.  Also, at the same time, suggested month for the gathering to occur would also be helpful. Thanks!
-Phil
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: Basquo on August 12, 2010, 12:28:07 pm
If I travel in the summer I want to leave the heat, not go somewhere worse.

*cough* Seattle *cough*

Totally agree. I think Seattle is a great suggestion. I wouldn't mind going back to San Francisco, either. Changing climes is a little bonus for me about past AMGs, Montreal, Mexico City, Boston, SF in September--all beautiful and comfortable.

Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: WillyWump on August 12, 2010, 12:32:17 pm
Totally agree. I think Seattle is a great suggestion.


I too am lovin the Seattle Idea. Austin and NEw Orleans are so damn hot and sticky during the summer (Sorry HeckRaiser).

-Will
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: Cerrid on August 12, 2010, 01:22:14 pm
Europe at the end of May, just like this year's AMG. Paris, Amsterdam, Dublin, Glasgow all sound good. Wherever we go, I'll follow. Above all, it's the people. Location to me is second.  :D
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: leatherman on August 12, 2010, 01:34:56 pm
I'm interested to read other suggestions..
because being on disability makes me quite poor, I always have to suggest the place nearest me. ;)

so one of my suggestions is Charlotte NC, right outside of where I'm now living. Anytime of year would be fine for me; but Spring is really pretty in the Carolinas.

However, because I recently moved from OH, and could combine an AMG with seeing all the friends I left behind ;), my other suggestion is Cleveland OH. Any time would be fine, just not the Winter months. (I finally got away from the blizzards and sure as heck don't want to be visiting back up there when there's 2 feet of snow on the ground.  :D)
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: phildinftlaudy on August 12, 2010, 06:56:20 pm
Hi Forum Family:
I was reviewing some of the posts/threads related to the planning of the 2010 AMG and Vegas gathering, so, in hopes of minimizing conflict  ;) - if that is possible - I wanted to put some of those previous discussions/issues right out there, so we can address them and hopefully come to some answers to allow for successful movement forward.   So, here goes:

1) It seems that members only were allowed to vote on site - do we want to continue this "policy" and if someone really wants to vote, they can become a member and do so?
2) Do we want to continue to have two gatherings -- one in European region and one in North American region? (Rationale:  Cost is many times a factor for some members and this provides a greater opportunity for the most members to be able to attend a gathering in the area they are most fiscally able to do so)
3) If there are two locations - see #2 above - do we want to refer to both as "official" AMGs?
4) If we make available grants, do we want to give people the opportunity to designate which location the money they donate goes to support  - or split the money - or forego grants (I'm not sure if grants were done this year)
5) In regards to time of year, do we want to set location(s) first then time of year or get suggestions, as we are kind of doing now, on both at the same time?
6) I believe Dennis was the organizer for Las Vegas gathering and Cliff was the AMG Coordinator for London - if two separate locations are the route decided upon - do we want to designate both individuals as AMG Coordinators (and designate the location each is coordinating)?  Also, if two locations are selected, are Dennis and Cliff still interested or are there other suggestions?

I think if we iron out the above areas now, it will allow for plenty of time to plan either one or both gatherings and have maximum involvement and attendance.

As always, as we proceed to discuss the above, let's try to keep a positive (pardon any pun) attitude; avoid any personal attacks; and allow everyone to be involved (I'm hoping that some who may have gotten frustrated in the past will shake off the past and be an active part of the discussion and planning).

Thanks everyone.
-Phil
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: Hellraiser on August 12, 2010, 10:45:49 pm
Hi Forum Family:
I was reviewing some of the posts/threads related to the planning of the 2010 AMG and Vegas gathering, so, in hopes of minimizing conflict  ;) - if that is possible - I wanted to put some of those previous discussions/issues right out there, so we can address them and hopefully come to some answers to allow for successful movement forward.   So, here goes:

1) It seems that members only were allowed to vote on site - do we want to continue this "policy" and if someone really wants to vote, they can become a member and do so?
2) Do we want to continue to have two gatherings -- one in European region and one in North American region? (Rationale:  Cost is many times a factor for some members and this provides a greater opportunity for the most members to be able to attend a gathering in the area they are most fiscally able to do so)
3) If there are two locations - see #2 above - do we want to refer to both as "official" AMGs?
4) If we make available grants, do we want to give people the opportunity to designate which location the money they donate goes to support  - or split the money - or forego grants (I'm not sure if grants were done this year)
5) In regards to time of year, do we want to set location(s) first then time of year or get suggestions, as we are kind of doing now, on both at the same time?
6) I believe Dennis was the organizer for Las Vegas gathering and Cliff was the AMG Coordinator for London - if two separate locations are the route decided upon - do we want to designate both individuals as AMG Coordinators (and designate the location each is coordinating)?  Also, if two locations are selected, are Dennis and Cliff still interested or are there other suggestions?

I think if we iron out the above areas now, it will allow for plenty of time to plan either one or both gatherings and have maximum involvement and attendance.

As always, as we proceed to discuss the above, let's try to keep a positive (pardon any pun) attitude; avoid any personal attacks; and allow everyone to be involved (I'm hoping that some who may have gotten frustrated in the past will shake off the past and be an active part of the discussion and planning).

Thanks everyone.
-Phil

Dealing with this many gay men is like herding cats.  Your best bet is to ask one question at a time and get everyone on the same page.  After a specific cut off date you should no longer take input on decisions that have already been arrived at.  (I have a lot of experience with this, fyi)

As for location my vote is for New Orleans whatever time of year.  I wouldn't mind going elsewhere, but I for sure can make a gathering in my backyard.
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: phildinftlaudy on August 13, 2010, 08:18:57 am
Dealing with this many gay men is like herding cats.  Your best bet is to ask one question at a time and get everyone on the same page.  After a specific cut off date you should no longer take input on decisions that have already been arrived at.  (I have a lot of experience with this, fyi)

As for location my vote is for New Orleans whatever time of year.  I wouldn't mind going elsewhere, but I for sure can make a gathering in my backyard.
Okay, because there has been such an immense response to my previous post  ;D, I will go with Trey's suggestion:
(I always wondered what it would sound like to have it so quiet I could hear I pin drop  ;)):

Do we want to continue to have two gatherings -- one in European region and one in North American region? (Rationale:  Cost is many times a factor for some members and this provides a greater opportunity for the most members to be able to attend a gathering in the area they are most fiscally able to do so)?  If there are two gatherings, do we want both to be "official" AMGs (AIDSMES Gatherings)?

Thanks in advance everyone for your response/feedback and participation!

-Phil
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: RAB on August 13, 2010, 12:33:50 pm

Do we want to continue to have two gatherings -- one in European region and one in North American region? (Rationale:  Cost is many times a factor for some members and this provides a greater opportunity for the most members to be able to attend a gathering in the area they are most fiscally able to do so)?  If there are two gatherings, do we want both to be "official" AMGs (AIDSMES Gatherings)?

Thanks in advance everyone for your response/feedback and participation!

-Phil

Hi Phil

I suspect there will be a gathering next year in the U.S.  Or at least that seemed to be the consensus of those in LV.  And August seemed to also be the month of choice.

Beyond that, it might be a bit early to be discussing it, which might explain why you aren't getting much feedback so far.

RAB
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: phildinftlaudy on August 13, 2010, 12:35:22 pm
Hi Phil

I suspect there will be a gathering next year in the U.S.  Or at least that seemed to be the consensus of those in LV.  And August seemed to also be the month of choice.

Beyond that, it might be a bit early to be discussing it, which might explain why you aren't getting much feedback so far.

RAB
Thanks RAB...
I was almost about to call my therapist as I kept hearing crickets...   :)
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: WillyWump on August 13, 2010, 12:37:48 pm
Hi Phil


Beyond that, it might be a bit early to be discussing it, which might explain why you aren't getting much feedback so far.

RAB

YEs, I havent even unpacked yet :) But Phil i applaud you for wanting to take this on, lord knows it is rife with obstacles, and theres a good possibility you will need several sessions with your therapist before it's all over :)

Hugs
Will
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: phildinftlaudy on August 16, 2010, 08:51:27 pm
So, let's start with step one:

Suggestions for 2011 gathering site.... (I will start tracking the suggestions that come in, as well as those previous ones that have been mentioned on this post).
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: bocker3 on August 16, 2010, 09:20:08 pm
Washington D.C.

Lots of free things to do.

Mike
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: lforsyth on August 16, 2010, 09:27:41 pm
You guys are all over the place.  I vote for New Orleans.

In 1968 I was at Keesler AFB and was a Road Guard.  I was comming out then and told to tell people I was Gay.  My roomates told me it didn't matter.  My best friend at Venice High School in Gymnastics didn't want anything to do with me anymore.  The Red Rope who designated me as a road guard told me that if he knew I was gay I could go with them to New Orleans. Hang out of the windows and pick up men.

I'm much to old for that now. But the spirit is willing..
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: phildinftlaudy on August 16, 2010, 09:41:32 pm
So, let's start with step one:

Suggestions for 2011 gathering site.... (I will start tracking the suggestions that come in, as well as those previous ones that have been mentioned on this post).
By the way, the thinking behind asking for suggestions ast this time is to perhaps follow the initial timeline/planning schedule below:

August/Sept 2010   Site Suggestions
October 2010         Site Vote
November 2010      Site Selection Completed - Begin site specific planning

If people know by November where the location is going to be, this gives anywhere from 6-9 months to plan to attend (i.e. get time off work, adjust other schedules, plan finances, etc).  For many people on a limited income or who may have jobs that require advance notification of time off request, this may help facilitate their ability to attend.  It will also help in regards to securing hotel site and other sites for activities during the gathering.

Time does fly, so while it may seem a bit early to be starting these discussions, I think that it will go a long way in helping to have the most people possible in attendance.
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: HippieLady on August 16, 2010, 10:19:48 pm
I would love to attend next year's gathering.  I will be combining family vaca with the gathering if at all possible.  Since we homeschool that makes it easy to just bring school with us.  I'm not picky on the location, some place cooler than Phoenix in August would be lovely or some place beachy.  If it was in New Orleans though I could pull triple duty and see some family as well.

Honestly though I'm not picky and I will enjoy myself where ever we are.  ;)
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: Robert on August 16, 2010, 10:34:21 pm
i really like the idea of a cruise.
 
second choice:  washington dc

third choice:   new orleans

robert
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: HippieLady on August 16, 2010, 10:35:29 pm
i really like the idea of a cruise.
 
second choice:  washington dc

third choice:   new orleans

robert

DC would be awesome, lots of stuff to do there.
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: phildinftlaudy on August 16, 2010, 10:58:16 pm
Summary of current suggested gathering sites (as of 10:55 p.m. EST, 8/16/10) - in no particular order:
Austin, Texas
Washington D.C.
Seattle, Washington
Paris, France
Amsterdam
New Orleans, La
Cleveland, Oh
Charlotte, NC
Dublin Ireland
Glasgow
Nashville, Tn
Orlando, Fl
San Francisco, Ca
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: lforsyth on August 17, 2010, 08:09:36 pm
I haven't been on for a couple of day's.  I'm really late on this thread.  I did a cruise to the Vancouver World's Fair.  Had great fun with a all gay group (wink, wink, nudge, nudge). We actually took over one of the bars on board.

I've never been to Washington (I assume D.C.) and want to see it. I didn't get to go to "Out and Equal" when it was there.

Washington, Florida or New Orleans are OK with me. I missed a chance in 1968 to go to New Orleans and hang out of the windows to pick up men, but today there would be no takers as I'm 61.
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: john33 on August 17, 2010, 08:32:23 pm
having just nearly had a heart attack at the price to fly to the states, can i suggest a site in Europe,

Not having traveled much I'll go with Paris as is beautiful with lots to do

John (who will have to restrain himself from retail therapy)

(edited to addd or Dublin as have always wanted to see the place)
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: peteb on August 18, 2010, 04:03:47 pm
always wanted to go to New Orleans Seattle sounds great also but I hear this was a very humid year and no air my make-up may melt away
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: ElZorro on August 18, 2010, 08:19:38 pm
Has a cruise been ruled out?

Also, how about Chicago...the midwest is great in the late summer
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: lforsyth on August 18, 2010, 09:47:30 pm
Well, my vote is for New Orleans.  I wrote an essay for Out in Phoenix. I never got there in 1968 but should have. It won't be the same as those who hung out of the windows and picked up men back then but I can only guess.  Besides, I'm 61 and having problems.  Just glad to be here.

So what ever you all want to do is OK by me. I love to see you all party.

I was in an elevator with Boeing employees from Seattle.  My badge was faded. They don't have that problem because they don't have sun like we do here in Phoenix.
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: lforsyth on August 18, 2010, 09:59:18 pm
I'm sorry to inform everyone that nothing is paid for. At all.  We pay are own way, the way I like it. It's our dollar plus NZ and OZ$. Jan and Jenn were worth the trip,

I think we should make it simple and use the KISS method. Nothing fancy.
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: Jeff G on August 18, 2010, 10:02:19 pm
I am hell bent on attending the next forum gathering if its close enough or airfare is affordable .

I love the idea of New Orleans or Chicago
I dislike the idea of New Orleans or Chicago in the summer time but what the heck .    
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: lforsyth on August 18, 2010, 10:03:13 pm
John33. I'd like to go to Europe also.  My family is Sctott, Forsyth.
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: Hellraiser on August 19, 2010, 01:24:12 am
I am hell bent on attending the next forum gathering if its close enough or airfare is affordable .

I love the idea of New Orleans or Chicago
I dislike the idea of New Orleans or Chicago in the summer time but what the heck .    

Hell you could drive to New Orleans from Birmingham it's only about 6 hours.
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: WillyWump on August 19, 2010, 11:10:19 am
I'm sorry to inform everyone that nothing is paid for. At all.  We pay are own way,

I'm not sure anyone here assumed the trip was paid for.

However since you brought it up there is an AMG Grants Commitee that is tasked with helping those who cannot afford it too attend an AMG. However, any help is contigent upon members here donating to the committee. Since Las Vegas was not the official AMG this year, London was, the Grants Committe did not come into play for Vegas. Not sure if it was utilized for London, however it was in play for Boston and other previous official AMG's.

Maybe we will hear something in the coming months on the creation of a Grants Committe for next years official AMG. But with the economy in the crapper it may not be possible to garner enough donations.

-W
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: Joe K on August 27, 2010, 12:40:13 am
As a point of clarification, there is only one Official AMG each year. The AMG this year, was the first to be held outside of North America, in London. My understanding is they had a Grants Committee and all the features of the official gathering. However, since AMG 2010 was in London, members in North America, decided to have an "unofficial" gathering in Las Vegas. As was mentioned, there was no Grants Committee for the Las Vegas gathering.

In the event that a location, outside NA, is chosen again for next year, I would expect another unofficial NA gathering to be born. My point being, there is only one official AMG each year, the location of which is solely determined by the members of this forum. There have been suggestions for having multiple AMGs, but it has remained agreed, that we will only have one official AMG each year.

The Grants Committee is a group of your fellow members, who coordinate accepting donations and pairing them with members who could not otherwise attend AMGs, without some assistance. Over the years, we have been able to send dozens of members to AMGs, because of the generosity of this forum. Something that brings this forum great pride and rightfully so.
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: Miss Philicia on September 08, 2010, 06:06:00 pm
Hey, let me know if you still are interested in taking a cruise ship for AMG after watching this (http://gizmodo.com/5632159/this-is-how-a-heavy-storm-looks-inside-a-cruise-liner).
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: WillyWump on September 08, 2010, 06:53:22 pm
Hey, let me know if you still are interested in taking a cruise ship for AMG after watching this (http://gizmodo.com/5632159/this-is-how-a-heavy-storm-looks-inside-a-cruise-liner).

I love the guy riding the desk.

Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: Miss Philicia on September 08, 2010, 07:03:41 pm
I love the guy riding the desk.



I actually rode out the equivalent of a category-1 hurricane for 18 hours on a cruise ship in the Baltic... not cute, though I handles it better than most of the passengers.
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: Hellraiser on September 08, 2010, 09:57:57 pm
So have we decided on New Orleans yet?
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: WillyWump on September 08, 2010, 10:01:40 pm
So have we decided on New Orleans yet?

Wow that was subtle.

w
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: Hellraiser on September 08, 2010, 10:02:52 pm
Wow that was subtle.

w

Subtlety is my foremost talent.
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: phildinftlaudy on September 08, 2010, 10:05:36 pm
So have we decided on New Orleans yet?
I figure next week I will once again post the list of the suggested spots, then perhaps some of those with previous experience can guide me/us through the process and we can start the narrowing down and do voting in October.  If we can have a site picked by end of October - I think that would be ideal - as it gives people a good 9-10 months (approx.) to plan and for all the details to be planned out -

Any thoughts about the above, criticism, etc.??
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: Hellraiser on September 08, 2010, 10:08:11 pm
I figure next week I will once again post the list of the suggested spots, then perhaps some of those with previous experience can guide me/us through the process and we can start the narrowing down and do voting in October.  If we can have a site picked by end of October - I think that would be ideal - as it gives people a good 9-10 months (approx.) to plan and for all the details to be planned out -

Any thoughts about the above, criticism, etc.??

Take vote of all the locations proferred and then once you have the results you can take the top 2 and allow people to vote amongst only them.  This makes sure that everyone's vote counts even if their original vote for location doesn't make it into that second tier.  It also gives people 2 opportunities to put in their 2 cents just in case say someone gets hog tied in their bedroom for a week by some dominican guy with a serious bondage fetish.
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: WillyWump on September 08, 2010, 10:14:58 pm
perhaps some of those with previous experience can guide me/us through the process and we can start the narrowing down and do voting in October. 

Your idea sounds cool,  although to me it is a tad bit early, but maybe I still ahve "Vegas lag."

I recommend picking Dennis' head for any tips, suggestions. His knowledge will be invaluable, especailly when you get down to picking venues and negotiating rates further down the road. I know he's extrememly busy, but perhaps if you sent him a PM now he might be able to respond in a week or so.

-Will
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: Lou-ah-vull on September 08, 2010, 11:21:54 pm
The cruise video is one of the funniest I have seen in awhile.  Reminds me of some of my college fraternity parties (and we were on dry land!)
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: WillyWump on September 08, 2010, 11:27:01 pm
.  Reminds me of some of my college fraternity parties (and we were on dry land!)

We're obviously gonna need pics of these Frat parties  ;D

-W
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: Ann on September 09, 2010, 09:46:26 am
I figure next week I will once again post the list of the suggested spots, then perhaps some of those with previous experience can guide me/us through the process and we can start the narrowing down and do voting in October.  If we can have a site picked by end of October - I think that would be ideal - as it gives people a good 9-10 months (approx.) to plan and for all the details to be planned out -

Any thoughts about the above, criticism, etc.??

The first thing you need to do is start a new thread for the express purpose of people putting forward their choice of location. No chat, just posts stating their choices. It needs to be clearly titled and the first post needs to spell out that it is a preliminary location thread and not for banter. This will make it easier to go through and catch everyone's choice. If you have to wade through banter, some people's choices may be overlooked.

Once everyone has been given plenty of time to put forward their choice, then you count up the results and the top three are voted on in another thread. This is how it's been done for the past few years, as far as I can remember.

You start the thread, and I'll sticky it for you. You should also start a thread in OT letting people know that there is a thread in this forum where the next location is being hashed out. Lots of people don't check this forum regularly and may not realise that you guys have been talking locations already.  I can sticky the thread in OT as well.
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: phildinftlaudy on September 09, 2010, 10:29:27 am
The first thing you need to do is start a new thread for the express purpose of people putting forward their choice of location. No chat, just posts stating their choices. It needs to be clearly titled and the first post needs to spell out that it is a preliminary location thread and not for banter. This will make it easier to go through and catch everyone's choice. If you have to wade through banter, some people's choices may be overlooked.

Once everyone has been given plenty of time to put forward their choice, then you count up the results and the top three are voted on in another thread. This is how it's been done for the past few years, as far as I can remember.

You start the thread, and I'll sticky it for you. You should also start a thread in OT letting people know that there is a thread in this forum where the next location is being hashed out. Lots of people don't check this forum regularly and may not realise that you guys have been talking locations already.  I can sticky the thread in OT as well.
Thanks Ann - I will do that a little later today (start the thread) and send you a PM when I do so it can be stickied.

Thanks again for your assistance.

Phil
Title: Re: 2011 AMG Idea
Post by: Ann on September 09, 2010, 11:06:25 am
You're welcome, Phil.

BTW, I hope you have experience at herding cats. You're gonna need it! ;D