Time to start thinking about ShoreLeave 2006!!

[STSF_BluRox 0]

Thank you, Grom. All Im saying not EVERYONE agreed that Baltimore wasnt working anymore and not everyone agrees that Vegas is.

 

Heres some info on Oklahoma City. What a blast!

 

http://www.okstatefairpark.com/soe/

 

Welcome to Oklahoma City!

 

Tourism is taking off in Oklahoma City! Legendary attractions like the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum and the Myriad Botanical Gardens. World-class equine action at Remington Park racetrack. Wild adventures at the Oklahoma City Zoo. The authentic sights, sounds and flavor of the Old West in Stockyards City. And historic Bricktown, our renovated entertainment and dining district with a summer of baseball with the Oklahoma RedHawks. Over 50 great attractions and activities, 12,000 hotel rooms, and a million friendly people who wouldn't live anywhere else. If you are a tourist or convention delegate, we hope this website will whet your appetite to find out about Oklahoma City firsthand! Visit our press room for news on Oklahoma City events, attractions and more.

 

Shrine Circus ... March 31 - April 3

 

Southwest Street Rod Nationals ... April 15-17

 

OKLAHOMA STATE FAIR ... September 15-25

 

Plenty of events at the Ford Center

 

Oklahoma City Museum of Art

 

The New Century Tour continues this Spring and all summer long with trolleys departing at 10am on weekdays.

Hey...here's another idea. Multiple sites!! Any of you I'm sure, are more than capable of setting up a tour package with any resort location or do so yourselves through the many travel services found on the internet. Unable to travel to far locations, plan a meeting locally for those that want to go a shorter distance. Nothing states that STSF members meeting has to take place at one specific location, or time. So.....absolutely hate Anywhere, USA....schedule something near you instead. Our Canadian friends...they can arrange their own meeting in say Montreal or Toronto or........ Edmonton. Personally, I know I can only do things in the summer when my kid is out of school, and I know some of the others have the same restriction, I'm sure there are many of you that don't have that problem. Set up a winter meeting, something in the spring...anytime.

 

For that matter, we had a small group meet in Boston last night. Moose, Huff, LoAmi and I had a nice night out on the town....until the nice people at the restaurant asked us to leave so that they could go home themselves!

 

Hey...if you all like Baltimore...you all are more than welcome, to arrange your own meeting there. Nobody has ever said that "everyone" has to attend the same get together. The annual Shoreleave convention in Hunt Valley takes place there every 2nd weekend in July, as well as the Far Point convention the third week of October.

Go for it! Nobody is going to stop anyone from creating their own travel plans and get togethers. They have a great website that helps you get registered and make your daily plans. both conventions are well run, though the fall one leans a bit more towards Fastasy writing than trek as of late.

 

Personally, I like Baltimore itself, and grew up about an hour north of there, but honestly....there is NOTHING else in Hunt Valley to do, and I can do without that. That's why even though we took the dinner down to Gibby's in Towson, we also had a smaller dinner for some of the early arrivals, down in Kent Narrows, about 2 hours south of there to get a better location and better food.

 

I on the other hand, have attended approximately 17 of the past 27 Shoreleaves in Baltimore. I can tell you the names of the vendors, and exactly what corner they place their action figs, bumper sticker and whatnot. For a laugh, right side aisle, 4th booth on left, ask to see the "hidden art of Kirk and Spock"...truely a scary thing, this is not for minors. Trust me, there are only so many times you can eat the cardboard pizza and corndogs at the strip mall on Sunday. And when I heard the SAME set of guests, for the THIRD time...telling yet again...the SAME anectode they told 2 and 5 years previously...I knew it was time for me to find a fresh location for the time and money that I was spending.

 

Besides.... I moved...and when I did so, so did the crockpot, blender and the cardboard Picard. It was the end of the midnight meatball twister parties that we invited some of our friends over too. Honestly I was also one of the main taxis in Hunt Valley, and usually picked up a good number of the people at the airport, and drove large groups down to the Inner Harbor or Camden Yards. However, now, once you are at the hotel...you're ....at the hotel. Or else paying for a rental car you're barely going to use. This is not downtown Baltimore, you are 20 minles north. Yes, you can spend 30 minutes on the train to get down there, but then you're walking.

 

And ....yes, I still stop in Baltimore when I go visit family and local friends there.

 

So, in short, if you're not fond of a location, or the prices aren't good for you, or the dates don't work for you, empower yourselves!! Organize an event, and put an invite up on the boards here for others to join you.....That's what they are for, to talk to others in our community.

 

Just like some people like to ask others in our community about sporting events...it's a chance to talk to others.

[Seiben 0]

Our Canadian friends...they can arrange their own meeting in say Montreal or Toronto or........ Edmonton.

Edmonton's a little too far.. Hmm, who lives in Toronto? Tovan, and Tach? You guys wanna go drinkin' wit' me? Ahh, nuts.. Nevermind. You guys are too young! :P But yeah, I wouldn't mind having a STSF Canada meet here in Toronto. :lol:

Edited September 28, 2005 by Seiben

[STSF NDak 0]

If there were a get togather in Canuck Land I would consider going... :P

[Seiben 0]

If there were a get togather in Canuck Land I would consider going... :lol:

Hey, cool. Toronto's great for clubbing and drinking. Not so much on sports, unless you want to see the Jays and Raptors lose.. though seats can be cheap. Leafs tickets are expensive though.. and based on their performance in the Pre-Season, definately not worth that kind of money. But there's also shopping.. Eaton Centre.. Yorkdale.. amusement parks.. CNE, Ontario Place, Paramount Canada's Wonderland, Centre Island?... I also mentioned earlier of the Toronto Trek convention in the summer, if y'all wanna go that route. Plenty to do here in Toronto, Canada's Entertainment Centre! :P

Edited September 28, 2005 by Seiben

[Nicolas Lepage 0]

Or how about Montréal?

Entertainment wise...there is a different festival almost every week in summer. We have more than 5000 restaurants. Let me think about sports. Soccer :Impact, Football: Alouettes, Hockey: Canadians...but then again, do we really get together to go to a sports event? I almost forgot about La Ronde (amusment park).

The temperatures in summer are definitely high enough to lie by the pool all day, if that's what you want.

We have theatres and museums (Musée d'Art contemporaine, Montréal Museum of Fine Arts, several historical museums in Old Montréal and a lot of small museums in the museums' quarter).

For people who want to go sight-seeing there is the Old Port along with Old Montréal, Notre Dame Cathedral, St. Joseph's Oratory, Lachine Rapids, Mount Royal, the Olympic Stadium, Botanical Garden...the list is almost endless.

There is also the Montréal Casino for those who like to gamble.

We have Dorval Airport (a.k.a Pierre Elliot Trudeau Airport) so whether you come from the States, another province of Canada or Europe, there is no problem getting here. The public transportation system is excellent. For $2.50 Can. you can get anywhere in town.

Unfortunately I do not know anything Trek related except that I could show you the neighbourhood where William Shatner grew up.

I am also sure I can come up with lots of ideas to go shopping.

If you are looking for an extensive night life...Montréal is the place to be.

 

The Montreal night life can be categorized into 4 areas, each with its own character and offering its own Montreal experience.

 

 

Crescent Street, Bishop Street, Ste-Catherine Street West

This is the most famous area and comprises of restaurants, clubs, cafes and boutiques, all of which are steps from each other. The Crescent strip hosts many festivals and events throughout the year offering live entertainment and street shows. Currently, the hot spots of the strip are Club Vatican, Newtown and Le Boom. Additionally there are many great Irish-style pubs to go along with the always packed dance clubs. Some of the best nightlife in the world can be found here. You'll also find many nightclubs that cater to meeting new people and lots of European style strip clubs.

 

 

Le Plateau Mont-Royal

The Plateau is the trendiest area in what many feel is the hippest neighborhood in Canada. It is filled with every kind of bar to suit any style, many catering to those looking for the newest and trendiest spots. Keep on the look out for the new buzz that will quickly become the place to be. Typically, there will be large crowds of people fighting to get in to these clubs and those on "The List" will cruise past the velvet rope. As our VIP, we'll make sure you don't wait any line ups or pay any cover charge to get in.

 

 

The Latin Quarter

The Latin Quarter offers a little something for everyone. This area is known for its laid back attitude and francophone influence. There are many bars specializing in locally brewed beers and lots of clubs catering to international flavor. During the summer months this area gets completely transformed as it hosts the largest Jazz festival in the world featuring hundreds of shows and live entertainment. Millions of people frequent this event and partake in a culture fest unlike any other. You'll also find the world famous and largest Just for Laughs comedy festival here every July. See Montreal info for more information.

 

 

Gay Village

Known as "The Village", you'll find lots of great bars and restaurants in this area, many known for their happening venues. You'll also find that this area accommodates gay and straight people alike, all of which are accepted in this neighborhood. Additionally, Montreal will be hosting the VII gay games in 2006..

 

Whichever spot you choose, you'll always be close to that vibrant and active night life for party goers and wanting adults.

 

I think that is enough info for now. If anyone is interested I can do further research on anything you need to know, especially specific dates for events (Montréal Jazz Festival, International Film Festival etc.) and details for hotels.

I would also sacrifice myself to check out some bars, clubs and pubs in town to be able to give you a first hand report.

 

By the way legal drinking age is 18.

[knlwtchr 0]

Id go a short distance into Canada if we were to meet there. That would be fun. I have been all over the states, but not too much into Canada. =0]

[FredM 0]

Or how about Montréal?

Hey there,

 

If you're serious about it...call a few hotels and see what the numbers say. We're talking about needing about twenty rooms, most for a three day/two night stay one weekend in July.

 

Also see what activities would be near the hotel and post the results you get. Maybe it'll be seriously considered. To me, sounds interesting but I don't know if it's viable (cost wise).

[Seiben 0]

Montréal's not bad either. I been there before, and there's alot to do there too.. and it's only six hours away from Toronto and close to Boston. :P

[Nicolas Lepage 0]

Montréal's not bad either. I been there before, and there's alot to do there too.. and it's only six hours away from Toronto and close to Boston. :lol:

::taps his foot:: What do you mean "not bad" ?!?!? :P

[Seiben 0]

Eh, well.. it's not bad for what it is.. Not as good as Toronto, but still.. lol. :P

[Nicolas Lepage 0]

Eh, well.. it's not bad for what it is.. Not as good as Toronto, but still.. lol. :lol:

You wanna take this outside, buddy?

:P

[Seiben 0]

::puts on his Leafs jersey.. and waves his Toronto flag:: :P

[Tethra 0]

Eh, well.. it's not bad for what it is.. Not as good as Toronto, but still.. lol. :P

I've been too both... and I can say... the only thing you'd want to do in toronto is hang out in an oxygen bar because of the smog! Montreal is a clean and safe city with an awesome homeless person by the notre dame.

[STSF Jami 0]

Hey there,

 

The reason Baltimore simply doesn't work is...well...it's been worn out. The facilities there are simply not that nice and I can tell you frankly the last time we held a group event there, it involved pulling teeth from local hotel management in order to get any sort of accomodation. Furthermore, unless there is a Star Trek convention in town, the list of activities isn't exactly arms length. In addition, if you want to go to Baltimore, I believe there is a group of RPGers who still get together in Hunt Valley every year. For me, I simply don't want to associate with many of them. :rolleyes:

 

As for Las Vegas, cost of flights for most people is about the same as Baltimore (unless you happen to live within driving distance). Facilities available are a lot more numerous, much more used to dealing with setting up group reservations, much more willing to assist groups, activities available are much more numerous...many of which happen to be free in themselves. Being late to the latest round of discussions, I will say this though. In the five times I've been to Las Vegas, I think I've "gambled" possibly $40. If you honestly think that's why we're going to LAS, then you have the wrong mindset as to what's taking place.

 

In addition, some might be asking "What the heck does he mean help with reservations?" For almost half a decade, I've been the individual often on the phone trying to setup the group packages and deals. I have run the numbers...once to the point of actually determining what ROI would be best given the people going. The fact is that people were paying more to go to Baltimore, and find a place where there was very little in the way of activities/shows/etc. to attend, than if we went to Las Vegas...staying at a much nicer hotel, with better activities available throughout the day.

 

Now, that being said, those involved can admit that I am greatly in favor of the event taking place in Orlando this year. Climate is nice (most of the time), a ton of activities to do and depending on scheduling...would even be within a one hour car ride to see a shuttle launch (something I must say, you must see once live before you die).

 

As to inflexibility, I'll defer to what A9 said.

Well, ok. I guess I need to be honest here. The reason I won't go to Vegas is because of the clubs, the drinking, and the noise (shows, casinos, lights, etc.) - for me it's total sensory overload.

 

I attended Shore Leave (when my sechedule permitted) to visit with friends -- to GET AWAY from the noise and activity -- and found that too much "to do" makes visiting nearly impossible. That, and me not being a clubber, drinker, gambler, or show-goer, pretty much leaves me out of Vegas. So, for me (and for others like me) there's really not that much to do in Vegas.

 

::shrug:::

[Merina 0]

Thank you, Grom. All Im saying not EVERYONE agreed that Baltimore wasnt working anymore and not everyone agrees that Vegas is.

 

Heres some info on Oklahoma City. What a blast!

 

http://www.okstatefairpark.com/soe/

 

Welcome to Oklahoma City!

 

Tourism is taking off in Oklahoma City! Legendary attractions like the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum and the Myriad Botanical Gardens. World-class equine action at Remington Park racetrack. Wild adventures at the Oklahoma City Zoo. The authentic sights, sounds and flavor of the Old West in Stockyards City. And historic Bricktown, our renovated entertainment and dining district with a summer of baseball with the Oklahoma RedHawks. Over 50 great attractions and activities, 12,000 hotel rooms, and a million friendly people who wouldn't live anywhere else. If you are a tourist or convention delegate, we hope this website will whet your appetite to find out about Oklahoma City firsthand! Visit our press room for news on Oklahoma City events, attractions and more.

 

Shrine Circus ... March 31 - April 3

 

Southwest Street Rod Nationals ... April 15-17

 

OKLAHOMA STATE FAIR ... September 15-25

 

Plenty of events at the Ford Center

 

Oklahoma City Museum of Art

 

The New Century Tour continues this Spring and all summer long with trolleys departing at 10am on weekdays.

Don't forget there's Enterprise USA, too. That's a fun place. But it's an hour or so tour.

[George_Pickett 0]

Orlando Proposal

 

A. “Location” Getting to and around Orlando is easy with the options provided to visitors. More than 62 scheduled and charter airlines feed into Orlando International Airport and Sanford Orlando International Airport, reflecting the city’s tempo, spirit, enthusiasm and commitment to quality facilities and service. And, with carrier choices ranging from low-cost to traditional airlines, you have plenty of options on travel time and selection of fares.

In addition to air travel, Orlando is easily accessible by the Amtrak rail system both via passenger trains and auto trains. Major highway networks into Florida and throughout the state make it easy to get to Orlando from other destinations. About town, travel is made convenient by one of the nation’s largest fleets of rental vehicles, as well as taxis and limousines.

Take a ride on our efficient and friendly public transportation options, including the colorful Lynx and Lymmo bus systems which reach throughout the attraction areas as well as downtown and favorite neighborhoods, or specialized I-Ride trolleys on International Drive.

For excursions in town and to nearby attractions and areas, tour companies offer diverse itineraries and customized trips for groups.

Orlando Attractions: http://www.orlandoattractions.com/

 

 

B. “ Travel and Lodging” There is plenty of Lodging for almost any budget in Orlando; tourism is their thing ya know. Top 20 hotels http://www.orlandoescape.com/

 

 

C. “ Trek Related” If I lived in Orlando or Florida even, I might better be able to answer this one. All I can say is that we create the entire Trek Universe inside our heads I mean come on were simmers we can do something Trek related almost anywhere.

 

 

D. “Points of Interest” http://www.orlandoescape.com/orlandorestaurants.htm the top 20 places to get some food in town. http://www.orlandoescape.com/orlandonightentertainment.htm the top Nightlife and entertainment options

 

 

E. “Pool Weather” If your talking September, the avg. temp in Orlando is 81degrees with an average of 19days out of the month of September with Clear or partly cloudy skies.

 

 

F. “Extra Credit” Here’s my stab at a name: How about. Event Horizon

 

 

Please consider Orlando for a possible site for Shore Leave, and anyone from Orlando or Florida feel free to help me out. It’s pretty bad when someone like me from Ohio, has to pitch your cities. :rolleyes:

 

 

There is something for everyone's interest in Orlando!

 

 

Thanks for taking a look B)

Edited October 4, 2005 by George_Pickett

[STSF NDak 0]

As I stated earlier, If we do a SL: Beta Site {:snark:} in Canada, I would most likely attend if it were somewhere in Southern Ontario...mostly because I can drive their with out *too* much trouble. However, Montreal is pretty much out for me because I don't want to fly (only to Vegas will I get my rear on a plane) and I last time I went, I didn't care Montreal.

 

So yeah, if we can put togather a SL: Beta Site plan for Toronto, I'm in. We might also look at Niagra Falls. :rolleyes:

[Nicolas Lepage 0]

As I stated earlier, If we do a SL: Beta Site {:snark:} in Canada, I would most likely attend if it were somewhere in Southern Ontario...mostly because I can drive their with out *too* much trouble. However, Montreal is pretty much out for me because I don't want to fly (only to Vegas will I get my rear on a plane) and I last time I went, I didn't care Montreal.

 

So yeah, if we can put togather a SL: Beta Site plan for Toronto, I'm in. We might also look at Niagra Falls. :rolleyes:

Well if we agree on Toronto I could at least try to prove that you can cycle from Montreal to Toronto in 3 to 4 days.

[Seiben 0]

Well if we agree on Toronto I could at least try to prove that you can cycle from Montreal to Toronto in 3 to 4 days.

Cycle? Hey, you got a thumb don't you? :rolleyes:

 

And.. Niagara Falls, that's a given. It's a pre-requisite all tourists must do when they come to the GTA! B)

[Nicolas Lepage 0]

Yes, cycle as in bicycle. It's around 600 kilometers...maybe 700 if you count the detours you have to make when you can't take the highway. Say I'd try to make it in four days that's only 175 kilometers a day. I'd need an average speed of around 22 km/h if I do 8 hours a day. So all I ask is this: let's not do it in winter please!!!!

The way I see it, if I have a good spring and no injuries until then ( good joke, let's say only minor injuries) I should be able to make it.

Anyone want to bet?

[Guest Vulcan3324]

Not certain that I would be able to make it myself, but thought I would mention this...

 

A ) Denver, Colorado

 

B ) Many, many hotels, including the Marriot Denver Tech Center, where the below occurs.

 

C ) Starfest 2006. http://www.starland.com

 

This is a wonderful convention that I have attended myself. A sci-fi convention that has many Trek-related activities.

 

D ) Denver has so may restaurants, and I can't even begin to name all of them.

 

 

F ) Simming Invasion 5D. :rolleyes:

[Seiben 0]

Yes, cycle as in bicycle. It's around 600 kilometers...maybe 700 if you count the detours you have to make when you can't take the highway. Say I'd try to make it in four days that's only 175 kilometers a day. I'd need an average speed of around 22 km/h if I do 8 hours a day. So all I ask is this: let's not do it in winter please!!!!

The way I see it, if I have a good spring and no injuries until then ( good joke, let's say only minor injuries) I should be able to make it.

Anyone want to bet?

OMG. You'd really do that, eh? Geez, I'd die of exhaustion before I even reach St. Eustache! :rolleyes:

[STSF Jami 0]

Starfest 2006. http://www.starland.com

Hm....interesting. Verrry interesting. :rolleyes:

[knlwtchr 0]

Well, ok. I guess I need to be honest here. The reason I won't go to Vegas is because of the clubs, the drinking, and the noise (shows, casinos, lights, etc.) - for me it's total sensory overload.

 

I attended Shore Leave (when my sechedule permitted) to visit with friends -- to GET AWAY from the noise and activity -- and found that too much "to do" makes visiting nearly impossible. That, and me not being a clubber, drinker, gambler, or show-goer, pretty much leaves me out of Vegas. So, for me (and for others like me) there's really not that much to do in Vegas.

 

::shrug:::

Thank you, Jami. Same here. But, I guess its like Baltimore. Some really liked it and some didnt. I would love to see you all again. Please dont make me travel to a town like VEGAS ::gagg:: to do so.

[Guest Vulcan3324]

If you are interested, I can provide some more information about Denver, and Starfest. :rolleyes: