Interest for skmb convention? (2013)

[Patricia A]

While chatting in the “Meet at the Dark Tower” group, some of us thought it would be great to try to put some sort of SKMB convention together for 2013.
Do y'all want to give it the old college try and see what happens?
If God wills it there will be water/chocolate.

We, the ad hoc committee are leaning toward Maine as a location but that's up in the ether still. I imagined us all taking a cross country train trip together, picking up members as we traveled, but that's nuts, we had fun talking about it though.
I was thinking also that there could be one main meet up place and a few smaller satellite meet ups all joined together via Skype. I dunno if that's nuts yet.

I have no idea of how to make this work though. I am hoping that someone with the time and the talent can do the organizing. I will help out as much as I can, and am willing to do any grunt work assigned by who ever can take this on.
I do know that if I took the helm, we would wind up in the Mojave desert in July eating gunslinger burritos. I have met me and I know what I am capable of. No joke.

Of course most of you will realize that expecting Stephen King to attend is pretty much out of the question. Let's understand that, he's a busy man. We can meet him on our own at book signings and other venues of that nature. An open invitation should be offered with no expectations, we know he will be there in spirit. Our pert Ms. Mod has voiced a willingness to attend and represent and that's Tickety Boo! This is basically just so we all of the SKMB can meet somewhere and well.... hobnob.

So all interested parties please pipe up with suggestions and or a willingness to volunteer your time and efforts.

[blunthead]

Consider blunthead in.

hobnob (hob -ˌnäb) verb, to associate familiarly.

[GNTLGNT]

I'm into hobbing with nobs...so I'll do my bestest to help out from the hollers of SE Ohiya....

[Patricia A]

I'm into hobbing with nobs...so I'll do my bestest to help out from the hollers of SE Ohiya....

You made a very good suggestion of where to meet in the group when we all were talking about it in the beginning. Do you still have the link? It was for the prison. I think that was a real possibility.

Let's collect suggested meeting places then post a poll at some point.

[Spideyman]

Excellent idea, Patricia. I'll help where I can.

[GNTLGNT]

....the prison where I work, or where Shawshank was filmed? I have had a catostrophic brain core failure....

[Moderator]

It was the link to Mansfield (Shawshank).

[blunthead]

1. Maine
2. The Stanley Hotel; Estes Park, Colorado
3. The Mansfield Reformatory; Mansfield, Ohio
4. Boulder, CO

[Patricia A]

You said Mansfield! However, since you mention it, we could meet you at work. :biggrin2:

[Becks19]

Patricia, That sounds like such a fun idea. Would be hard for me to travel,( kids, hubby and dogs would be lost) but would love to do it via skype. ( gotta look into that):love:

[GNTLGNT]

It's easy to find...especially in this GPS equipped age....

[J.T. Adams]

Thankee, Patricia.

And there'll be water if God wills it . . .

[Reason4Happenings]

It's been long and long since my nobs have been hobbed. Consider me in - and willing to help in any way I can. I've never been to Maine.

[blunthead]

It's been long and long since my nobs have been hobbed. Consider me in - and willing to help in any way I can. I've never been to Maine.That's a Three Dog Night tune, ain't it? Paul Sheldon had his hobbled, but pretty sure that's way different. We should conduct a poll once the word is well out. Who knows where we'll end up? (I pick Maine).

[not_nadine]

Is there any way to know in general where everyone is? Poll?

[Patricia A]

Patinthehatrick suggested a toga party at one point. He prefers to hobnob in a pant-less manner me thinks. :eek2:

[CarrieJo]

Still in as long as I can when the time comes. I'm seriously considering opening another savings account to save up. :biggrin2:
I still like Maine, but these other ideas are great as well. I do like the Stanley Hotel, too. And Ohio is a heckuva lot closer to where I am.

Hm....

[Reason4Happenings]

That's a Three Dog Night tune, ain't it? Paul Sheldon had his hobbled, but pretty sure that's way different. We should conduct a poll once the word is well out. Who knows where we'll end up? (I pick Maine).


Hey Blunt! We should totally carpool! Along with any other peaches that we may pick up along path of the beam.

[blunthead]

Patinthehatrick suggested a toga party at one point. He prefers to hobnob in a pant-less manner me thinks.Sure, my toga still fits! :mad:

[md10pc]

Just a few suggestions - get your volunteers first for the committee to do the start-up. Then work up a poll to put on the forum for things like places, dates, length. When you've settled those details, you can get people to work on different parts, like speakers, tours, open house, registration. You will need to know a ballpark number on how many are going to be there so you know how big a place you will need for the get-together.

It will be work but think of it like a high school reunion. A lot of people have had experience with that. Or if you belong to a professional group and have helped with their annual conferences, a lot of that experience can apply.

[blunthead]

Hey Blunt! We should totally carpool! Along with any other peaches that we may pick up along path of the beam.I'd love to! :smile2:

[mstay]

1. Maine
2. The Stanley Hotel; Estes Park, Colorado
3. The Mansfield Reformatory; Mansfield, Ohio
4. Boulder, CO

I would love to attend if I can and I might be able to make it to Colorado! Probably not to Maine though. :sad:

But who knows what's around the bend. So plan away! Whatever works best for everyone and I will see what's what when the time comes. :biggrin2:

[Patricia A]

Carpools sound like a great idea. This brings me back to trains. I have train on the brain syndrome for some reason.
not nadine said she may be able to look into deals from Am Track. :y:

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b184/SnarPlaya/planestrainsautomobiles.jpg

[PatInTheHat]

Patinthehatrick suggested a toga party at one point. He prefers to hobnob in a pant-less manner me thinks. :eek2:
:biggrin2:
Yeah well, if the pants fit:rolleyes:
It's really just about havin' the option:y:...I'm mean wardrobe schmordrobe, if there's a nice southerly breeze I might just like the same schwangin' in the wind option as any of y'all smilin' to yourselves gals do:geek:

[SharonC]

Oh, I've always wanted to be a Hobbit! How about the Shire of Maine? Seriously though, a poll would be the best considering the locations of the Board members. Maine, or any of the eastern states bordering Canada would be ideal for land travel in my case. Air travel is also an option since an event like this would be planned far enough in advance to take advantage of seat sales, etc. Looking forward to the First Annual King-Con!

[Patricia A]

Oh, I've always wanted to be a Hobbit! How about the Shire of Maine? Seriously though, a poll would be the best considering the locations of the Board members. Maine, or any of the eastern states bordering Canada would be ideal for land travel in my case. Air travel is also an option since an event like this would be planned far enough in advance to take advantage of seat sales, etc. Looking forward to the First Annual King-Con!
No one can hobnob like a hobbit! I think that hobbits were actually the first real hobnobbers known to civilization.

[~Ally~]

Ooh, are y'all hobnobbing without me? :sad:

Patricia, it was PITH who shared the link for Mansfield, not that it really matters, here it is for everyone to check out.
http://www.mrps.org/ (http://www.stephenking.com/forums/redirector.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.mrps.org%2F)

Personally, I still think Maine would be amazing for the first ever SKMB Con, but I will travel anywhere so it's all cool with me. :cool2:

[blunthead]

So far we're assuming not in the UK, which may be a safe assumption; still somewhere on the east coast, U.S, would make it better for folken from across the pond.

[~Ally~]

So far we're assuming not in the UK, which may be a safe assumption; still somewhere on the east coast, U.S, would make it better for folken from across the pond.

It would be awesome if y'all could come to the UK. I'd be yer tour guide...well, until the red wine kicked in, then you'd be on ya own! :blush:

[Patricia A]

There could be con pods in the UK and in other countries on the day we decide on as well, we could hook up through the internet in that case. The Skype thing.
People who live close to each other who can't come to the main event can meet at a local place with a laptop and bam, cyber-tele-king-con!

[dsurrett]

I couldn't commit to it yet, I don't guess anyone could. But it sounds like a great idea. I'd vote for Maine as the location, Bangor or other King-related sites. SK Tours might be able to get involved, not sure how big the organization is and if they could get discounted rates.

[Patricia A]

Ooh, are y'all hobnobbing without me? :sad:

Patricia, it was PITH who shared the link for Mansfield, not that it really matters, here it is for everyone to check out.
http://www.mrps.org/ (http://www.stephenking.com/forums/redirector.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.mrps.org%2F)

Personally, I still think Maine would be amazing for the first ever SKMB Con, but I will travel anywhere so it's all cool with me. :cool2:

We are always hobnobbing, but never without you!

Oh thanks MsUnderstood, I always get those two mixed up. Sometimes when they get on a roll with their palavers and I can't tell which is hob nor which is nob.

[GNTLGNT]

Ooh, are y'all hobnobbing without me? :sad:

Patricia, it was PITH who shared the link for Mansfield, not that it really matters, here it is for everyone to check out.
http://www.mrps.org/ (http://www.stephenking.com/forums/redirector.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.mrps.org%2F)

Personally, I still think Maine would be amazing for the first ever SKMB Con, but I will travel anywhere so it's all cool with me. :cool2:

...OK, now Pat and I are the same person...wow!....that WAS one hell of a stroke to the medulla I enjoyed...hell, if'n that were the case-the univerese would implode just from the sheer tonnage of goofiness that would erupt at inopportune times...'specially when the wind whistles through our pantsless nether regions....He and I could hook up, along with mama and the beautiful blonde bombshell and hoot & holler our way pert near anywhere's...I'll even drive!!!!!

[GNTLGNT]

Con pods?.....again, sounds like ya'll should meet me at work...meal-loaf for everybody!!!!!

...this is part of it...

http://www.drc.ohio.gov/Public/images/nci.jpg

http://media.cleveland.com/plain-dealer/photo/9984774-large.jpg

[SharonC]

"Cyber-tele-king-con"? Try saying that fast 5 times, lol.

[Spooky Chick]

This is a great idea and I also like the idea of people joining in by Skype, especially as there's no way I'll make it to the US this year. I'd be interested in a UK or Scotland pod depending when it is.
:)

[gniknehpets]

Oooohhh!!! Yay! Love the idea! 91rewoT and I will start planning our 2013 haunted Wisconsin trip but we'll re-name it for whatever state the convention is held in!
We can only get away for a week and I can't fly (won't, can't, I almost throw up just thinking about it) so I hope it's a only couple day drive from Wisconsin. If it happens in the Stanley who gets to stay in the room with the lady in the tub?:eek2:

[blunthead]

Oooohhh!!! Yay! Love the idea! 91rewoT and I will start planning our 2013 haunted Wisconsin trip but we'll re-name it for whatever state the convention is held in!
We can only get away for a week and I can't fly (won't, can't, I almost throw up just thinking about it) so I hope it's a only couple day drive from Wisconsin. If it happens in the Stanley who gets to stay in the room with the lady in the tub?Me me!!! Wait...

[sknut70]

i think its a great idea would love to go if it works out. harder now that I'm in oz. i know this has been talked about round and round for a few years and it never got anywhere. i do like the bangor maine idea, as it is the It area. but whatever works

[Spideyman]

...OK, now Pat and I are the same person...wow!....that WAS one hell of a stroke to the medulla I enjoyed...hell, if'n that were the case-the univerese would implode just from the sheer tonnage of goofiness that would erupt at inopportune times...'specially when the wind whistles through our pantsless nether regions....He and I could hook up, along with mama and the beautiful blonde bombshell and hoot & holler our way pert near anywhere's...I'll even drive!!!!!

GNTLGNT this is what came to mind when reading that post:

15402

[sandiego39]

sounds like a good idea patricia

[randallFlaggfan1]

Well, if God wills it, we shall have our 1st SKMB Con. Personally, it sounds like a fantastic idea, I'd love to meet and converse with each and every one of the Ka-Tet!

I've wanted to visit Maine for years and years.. for obvious reasons. I'm just not sure if the convention's feasible, financially speaking..:dunno:

I'll help as much as i can. Just let me know, Patricia.

[doowopgirl]

I would love to Skype. I live in Ireland, so depending on the time of year,it could be hard for me to travel. For example, I work a school schedule, so for me ,it would have to be July or August. But I can Skype from home any time. But I LOVE the idea.

[GNTLGNT]

GNTLGNT this is what came to mind when reading that post:

15402

http://www.dvdtalk.com/reviews/images/reviews/190/1238063536_1.jpg..." Granny!!! She's right!!!".....

[fushingfeef]

I think I could do Ohio. Maine, well it's just too darn far for me and my wife and 2 kids, but maybe someday...

[Patricia A]

Well, if God wills it, we shall have our 1st SKMB Con. Personally, it sounds like a fantastic idea, I'd love to meet and converse with each and every one of the Ka-Tet!

I've wanted to visit Maine for years and years.. for obvious reasons. I'm just not sure if the convention's feasible, financially speaking..:dunno:

I'll help as much as i can. Just let me know, Patricia.

Ka-ching is an issue for at least 99% of us, and may be our doom. But if we can get group rates on lodging etc, off season stuff even. It might fly. Personally I could only stay for one day/night so if it came to it, one night at an off the beat Motel wouldn't kill me. (Que Hitchcock music)
We can try to travel in packs to cut expenses and maybe even "stay over" at SKMB friendly homes on the road.

Are you all beginning to feel the Mojave in July with gunslinger burritos thing setting in yet?

Everyone buy scratch-offs right now! :biggrin2:

[GNTLGNT]

...there's always the ghost tour at the Reformatory as well..

http://www.unknownmagazine.com/Mansfield2011.jpg

[scout66]

What a fun idea! I probably can't afford a road trip, although I've been craving one recently.... How about Kansas, since it's centrally located? (Just kidding, I guess it isn't centrally located if you consider the international contingent.) Maine seems like an obvious choice for a first gathering.

[Jojo87]

This sounds like a great idea. To meet other SKMB member would be a pleasure for me.
Thanks Patricia for put this thread up. I might get problem with this one. Because I and my sister
have start saving money for our next trip to US and that will happen in February and to Florida.
And if this meeting would be in July I don't think I'm able to come. Have to be in work and
it's the busiest time of year in my work because many have vacation and my hometown
are mostly full of people. And I think I have to keep my summer vacation in July this year so I don't
think my boss let me keep in July next year. But If it's August I might have time to save some
money and are able to come if my boss let me keep my vacation then.
But will see what I come up with. Who know's I'm full of surprise I might come even
if I said in first place I can't come. :wink2:

[GNTLGNT]

Ka-ching is an issue for at least 99% of us, and may be our doom. But if we can get group rates on lodging etc, off season stuff even. It might fly. Personally I could only stay for one day/night so if it came to it, one night at an off the beat Motel wouldn't kill me. (Que Hitchcock music)
We can try to travel in packs to cut expenses and maybe even "stay over" at SKMB friendly homes on the road.

Are you all beginning to feel the Mojave in July with gunslinger burritos thing setting in yet?

Everyone buy scratch-offs right now! :biggrin2:

...my casa is yer casa....pay no mind to the late night hole digging.....

[Spooky Chick]

If it happens in the Stanley who gets to stay in the room with the lady in the tub?:eek2:

Now you're making me want to come over to the US just for that! :p

[not_nadine]

Can I suggest changing the title of this thread so more people can understand what it is about?

[Moderator]

Have changed the title but if that still isn't catching attention, I'm open to suggestions.

[MelissaConstantReader]

A SKMB con would be fatastic! I'd like to share some thoughts that would help in the expense department: Camping. Especially if the meeting point is in Ohio. Some of the campgrounds have showers and laundry.There is swimming, boating, fishing, and relaxation for reading. Imagine the tales to be told around that campfire! And for those inclined to a less country-fried stay, there are lower cost, clean, mom and pop motels nearly everywhere in the state.

[Moderator]

We have one close by here, too. The Paul Bunyan Campground (http://www.paulbunyancampground.com/) is within 15 minutes of downtown Bangor. I've never had reason to stay there but I've heard from others that it's a nice one to stay at. I just noticed that one of their features is Halloween in August. :smile2:

[MelissaConstantReader]

We have one close by here, too. The Paul Bunyan Campground (http://www.stephenking.com/forums/redirector.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.paulbunyancamp ground.com%2F) is within 15 minutes of downtown Bangor. I've never had reason to stay there but I've heard from others that it's a nice one to stay at. I just noticed that one of their features is Halloween in August. :smile2:

I just checked out their website and the rates are reasonable too. Depending on the size of the site, 2-3 tents could be around $7.50 to $12.50 per night. Then divided between the number of people in the tent, we're getting pretty frugal LOL. Halloween in August would be a blast too! :biggrin2:

[Patricia A]

The Paul Bunyan Campground is rockin'! Halloween in August! Even if we don't vote to go here I'd like to go just to go.
I'm beginning to seriously think that the first SKMB Con should be in Maine, we can keep a committee going that will check out other places to meet in following years. I think I'm in campaign mode now LOL!

Love the new thread title, way better!

[dsurrett]

Camping? Hopefully a reasonably priced motel would be nearby. I think it's "roughing it" if you have to walk downstairs at the Holiday Inn to get to a Coke machine.

[CarrieJo]

I so happy camping has been brought up in this thread too! I'm going to check out the Paul Bunyan Campground.

Dsurrett, there ususally are hotels close to campgrounds. And with this Paul Bunyan one being just outside of Bangor, I'm sure you could get a hotel there.

[Patricia A]

Have changed the title but if that still isn't catching attention, I'm open to suggestions.

We can tell people via their profile pages to come check. I just asked Madam Mack to check us out.
You could change the title to FREE COOKIES, but that would be mean.

[Moderator]

Lots of hotels/motels in the area to choose from. Another thought is checking into whether local colleges/universities that have dorms might consider allowing them to be a convention site. NECON (Northeastern Writers Conference) has for many years located their convention on the campus of Roger Williams University. Attendees stay at the dorms and the admission price included the lodging and food from the cafeteria (to be honest, most meals people ate out but it was an option), the auditorium was available for panel discussions, and in the evenings people were able to get together on campus to socialize. A lot would depend upon availability and cost, though, to do something like that but might be worth checking into. There are 3 schools in the Bangor area that I know of that have dormitories.

[Debbie913]

This sounds so exciting! I am just hoping that I can find a way to attend. I am one of the majority who is financially challenged. :(
I don't have much to offer as far as input to the planning, either. Guess I'm kind of lame like that!! Anyway, my vote would be for Boulder/The Stanley as I would for sure be able to attend! I do understand why Maine seems to be the first choice, though. :)
So, I guess really all I came here to say is....YAY!!!!!!

[if-so-Grrl]

I really, really like the idea of Maine, but in terms of the ol' ka-ching! it might be difficult for more members than a more centrally located place would be. I'm kinda partial to Boulder...

[Patricia A]

I really, really like the idea of Maine, but in terms of the ol' ka-ching! it might be difficult for more members than a more centrally located place would be. I'm kinda partial to Boulder...
Would/could carpooling from the Last Frontier work for you?

[if-so-Grrl]

Would/could carpooling from the Last Frontier work for you?

LOL...nah, I'm going to have to arrange for some time off to do this (which is usually incredibly easy in my job, though early next summer could be impossible.) So I won't be starting out from Alaska - probably Seattle. And I'll probably fly. (I might drive if it were in Colorado, though...)

[Suzana]

Well, as I would have to stay somewhere I don't know if you guys decided for Maine or any other place, it really doesn't matter to me...

But it would be nice to have some not-expensive place! :grinning:

[JellybeanJay]

Oh I am all over this, what a fabulous idea! Count this Canuck in!!

[fljoe0]

Would/could carpooling from the Last Frontier work for you?

Carpooling would probably work good except maybe from Hawaii. We have members everywhere.

[gniknehpets]

Still loving Giant's idea of the haunted prison in Ohio! And I have to put out here that Black House was set in Trempeleau Wisconsin so my state could be considered? Wisconsin is somewhat central and Trempeleau has a beautiful state park right on the back waters of the Mississippi with a 100 mile bike trail running through it. Camping, canoeing, several B&B's and motels with riverfront views, no freeways, loons, eagles, tugboats, lock and dams, cheese, beer and brats and scary stories around a campfire... What more could we want?! Just throwing it out there to think about. But personally I think it should probably be Maine!

[GNTLGNT]

Oh I am all over this, what a fabulous idea! Count this Canuck in!!

...all over...and Canuck....oh never mind...it was too cheeky...:love:

[nate_watkins]

The Plague Center in Stovington, VT would be closest to me.

[Garriga]

I'm down for count

I can't leave the US. Well, in 2015, I can go anywhere.

[Garriga]

One of my friends from high school lives in Boulder, and my dad is going to take me to Maine to show me where he grew up. So, I am in. :biggrin2:

[SHEEMIEE]

STEPHEN KING CON....


can anyone carpool me- someone with a private jet perhaps 'cos i'm in guys......bangor maine cool

15436


I can scrape the cash together if i sell my Harry Potter misbound philosopher stone...any buyers-cos i wanna come!!!!!

[Patricia A]

blunthead is making a list of suggestions for our gathering, he is scanning the posts as we speak. A poll will be posted next week, most likely mid-week. So speak now if you have other suggestions, and or make your case as to why this would be the best place. Once a main meeting place is established the planning will begin.
If you have any input over the weekend, go to SKMB Closed -Meet at the Dark Tower.
Here's a link.

http://www.stephenking.com/forums/group.php?discussionid=1535&do=discuss

Have a wonderful week end all!

[cat in a bag]

I so love this idea of getting together! I will start saving my pennies. Cannot promise I will be able to attend, we have been struggling a little bit too, lately. But it would be so much fun, and I will be there if we can work it out!

[FlakeNoir]

blunthead is making a list of suggestions for our gathering, he is scanning the posts as we speak. A poll will be posted next week, most likely mid-week. So speak now if you have other suggestions, and or make your case as to why this would be the best place. Once a main meeting place is established the planning will begin.
If you have any input over the weekend, go to SKMB Closed -Meet at the Dark Tower.
Here's a link.

http://www.stephenking.com/forums/group.php?discussionid=1535&do=discuss

Have a wonderful week end all!

Flake's place in New Zealand!

Sorry Pat, I couldn't resist.... :tongue: :biggrin2: :love:

[Lily Sawyer]

Wherever the venue is, it's pretty clear to me that we need to decide on WHEN this nob of hobbing will occur.

Here are some realities:
1. Not everyone is going to be able to make it. This involves a wide variety of reasons: financial, geographical proximity, prior obligations, kids, disinterested significant others who might protest the absence of the SK fan in their home, etc. This is where Skype will be able to help out tremendously.
2. If we want Ms. Mod in on the fun, it's going to have to happen at a time when she's not slammed with work relating to book tours or book releases. Those events tend to happen in the fall. So October through November (and into December a wee bit) aren't groovy months.
3. Ms. Mod takes her vacation in late March and early April. Not a good time either for her if we want to include her.
4. May is typically graduation month in the U.S., with a big long American holiday weekend at the end of the month...and that tends to be reserved for families, not conventions. (Not for me personally - Memorial day weekend is fine by me, but not for a lot of people.)
5. June is the traditional wedding month in many Western countries. It's going to be difficult to find lodging in many parts of the U.S. in June if reservations are not made well in advance.
6. December through March in Maine is cold, but more importantly, weather can impede trains, planes and automobiles traveling to many parts of the U.S or Canada during the winter. While I love cold weather and snow, and am willing to risk travel virtually anywhere, a lot of people won't be keen on either cold or snow.
7. It's looking like July, August or even September are the ideal months for this to happen.

And again, we need to decide on when it's happening, so that people can make trip budgets, make lodging reservations, travel arrangements, and save for the event.
Then establish it indeed will be in Maine. Or Ohio. Or Boulder. Any place is groovy by me.

[91rewoT]

Still loving Giant's idea of the haunted prison in Ohio! And I have to put out here that Black House was set in Trempeleau Wisconsin so my state could be considered? Wisconsin is somewhat central and Trempeleau has a beautiful state park right on the back waters of the Mississippi with a 100 mile bike trail running through it. Camping, canoeing, several B&B's and motels with riverfront views, no freeways, loons, eagles, tugboats, lock and dams, cheese, beer and brats and scary stories around a campfire... What more could we want?! Just throwing it out there to think about. But personally I think it should probably be Maine!

People, do not underestimate the power of chees, beer, and brats!!! :wink2:

[91rewoT]

So many good suggestions as to where to hold this!! I think Maine is, of course, the "perfect" place, but there were many other places that would be fantastic as well. If centrally locating it (CO?), or some other location, would ensure that more people could come, then that's where my vote would go. Anyway, wherever it is, pets and I will try to come. And when we do, I plan to bring a King book or two that I can have all of YOU sign for me!!! Soooooo cool!!! Oh! Maybe I'll bring my UK version of WTTK (assuming I'm able to get one here). Wouldn't it be awesome to have the book with pictures of fans signed by fans?!!??!! :biggrin2: I can't stop smiling!!!

[Moderator]

I have 4 weeks vacation so also try to take some time during the summer but as long as I know far enough in advance, I can try to schedule around it. Wherever the location, would also be a good idea to check into what other activities might be taking place as it could cause problems for booking hotels e.g. in late August every year, Bangor hosts a folk music festival which draws large crowds. It's been free in years past, is a lot of fun and might be a nice diversion, but the hotels do fill up. Next year I already have vacation plans for mid-March and possibly April but also don't know yet what Steve's plans/dates are for doing the European book tour he'd rescheduled to 2013 although my understanding is that it will be late spring/early summer. That's going to take a big chunk of my time in the pre-planning stages and while Steve is there so I'm with Lily on the suggestion of July, August, or September. Weather here is usually nice through the middle of October and then it gets cold but if camping is part of the plan, the nights get down into the 30s or lower so that might eliminate that option.

[king family fan]

It would be so awesome to meet everyone!

[Patricia A]

We will post a poll to vote on location and time of year tomorrow, we just need to figure out how to do it hahaha!

OK, it was mentioned that our differing political views may be an issue at our event. I say not. We will obtain an Apopolax (?) Feather and only they that hold the feather will be allowed to speak on the subjects of politics and religion. We can make a separate area for the passing of the feather and first aid station. Just kidding.
I honestly think we know how to comport ourselves in public.
Let's not let divisive issues keep us apart.
We are bigger than that. Better than that.

[gniknehpets]

We will post a poll to vote on location and time of year tomorrow, we just need to figure out how to do it hahaha!

OK, it was mentioned that our differing political views may be an issue at our event. I say not. We will obtain an Apopolax (?) Feather and only they that hold the feather will be allowed to speak on the subjects of politics and religion. We can make a separate area for the passing of the feather and first aid station. Just kidding.
I honestly think we know how to comport ourselves in public.
Let's not let divisive issues keep us apart.
We are bigger than that. Better than that.

Really? Someone really said that? I missed that post but for Pete's sake this isn't about politics is it? It's about getting to meet face-to-face the people we've come to know and care for in the faceless world of cyberspace. I can't wait to see the smiles and grins on the faces of these people when we talk about the books and stories we all love so much. If we have to, I love your feather idea Patricia A but I'm going to be at the circle of people laughing and having a good time. We won't need a feather...

[~Ally~]

Really? Someone really said that? I missed that post but for Pete's sake this isn't about politics is it? It's about getting to meet face-to-face the people we've come to know and care for in the faceless world of cyberspace. I can't wait to see the smiles and grins on the faces of these people when we talk about the books and stories we all love so much. If we have to, I love your feather idea Patricia A but I'm going to be at the circle of people laughing and having a good time. We won't need a feather...

Nope, we will just have Ms Mod instead! Nobody messes with the Motherator! :cool2:

Anyhoo, StephenKingBackwards, I agree with you 100%, and will be in your circle. :y: We are civilised people--ahem--and capable of conducting ourselves in public as such. Adults can agree to disagree, and still be friends. All together now...Kumbaya my Lord, Kumbaya...

[Garriga]

We will post a poll to vote on location and time of year tomorrow, we just need to figure out how to do it hahaha!

OK, it was mentioned that our differing political views may be an issue at our event. I say not. We will obtain an Apopolax (?) Feather and only they that hold the feather will be allowed to speak on the subjects of politics and religion. We can make a separate area for the passing of the feather and first aid station. Just kidding.
I honestly think we know how to comport ourselves in public.
Let's not let divisive issues keep us apart.
We are bigger than that. Better than that.

What not to bring up

Politics
evolution
Catholics
Ex boyfriends
One night stands
Divorce
Dungeons and Dragons
Skin Infections
Katrina
Ole Miss
Tennessee

What to bring up

Irish Men
Art
Wine country
Expensive Whiskey
Shopping
Baseball
Garriga's Awesomeness :biggrin2:

[roseannebarr]

I love the idea. I would think that Stephen King would attend such an event for an appearance fee. do we have any idea how much that fee is?

At the convention we would need speakers. A collecting expert, a stephen king authoritarian, and booths, lots of booths from book sellers selling sk books, collectors books, and books sk recommended. I love the idea and will help in any way!

[Moderator]

Stephen hasn't done conventions since the '80s and an appearance fee (he doesn't have a set fee for speaking engagements) wouldn't make a difference. I won't say it absolutely wouldn't happen but it's highly unlikely--don't want anyone to get their hopes up.

[dsurrett]

Speakers would be nice, but I'd think of the event as more of a class reunion - just get together and have a good time. If it happens, we'd of course try to let Stephen know about it (as well as Joe), but it would probably be a longshot for Stephen or another family member to attend. Would be nice, but a longshot.

[GNTLGNT]

http://www.mumschest.com/songs/media/sheetmusic/kumbaya_my_lord.gif...here's the song lyrics for those who may have forgotten due to political diatribe overload:biggrin2:...

...and here's the camp song leader...
http://i2.listal.com/image/1957870/600full-jason-voorhees.jpg:eek2:

[Maani_Alexis]

Its times like these I wish I travelled more.... or lived in a place close enough by ;) I am in Australia so the trip would be huge (but I am sure very worth it!)

[~Ally~]

...and here's the camp song leader...
http://i2.listal.com/image/1957870/600full-jason-voorhees.jpg:eek2:

Y'all know that's gonna be little ole me in a boiler~suit and scary mask, dontcha? Those of you thinking I don't need a mask can just hush now! :glare:

[blunthead]

What not to bring up

Politics
evolution
Catholics
Ex boyfriends
One night stands
Divorce
Dungeons and Dragons
Skin Infections
Katrina
Ole Miss
Tennessee

What to bring up

Irish Men
Art
Wine country
Expensive Whiskey
Shopping
Baseball
Garriga's Awesomeness :biggrin2:Add to the above lists as follows...

What not to bring up

A Kardashian
A Lohan
A Hilton
Perceived factual inaccuracies in any Stephen King-authored book, especially 11/22/63.
Plans for Ms. Mod's reti...for her to stop, even temporarily, doing for a living what she is doing.

What to bring up

Fishing
Grilling
Meat, especially "red"
Fried burritos
Bikinis
Yasmine Bleeth
Diane Lane
Gambling
A campaign to obstruct Ms. Mod's ret...oh, you know.

[J.T. Adams]

What to bring up

Fishing
Grilling
Meat, especially "red"
Fried burritos
Bikinis
Yasmine Bleeth
Diane Lane
Gambling
A campaign to obstruct Ms. Mod's ret...oh, you know.
[/QUOTE]

Don't forget parsnips

[GNTLGNT]

Don't forget parsnips[/QUOTE]

Bless you....

[tower-obsession]

Well... I won't be going to Maine, for financial reasons, but... I live in an RV park, and the spots right next to us are open, if anyone is closer to Hardin, Montana than other places. It's $25 a night, though. But we have a grill and lots of venison steaks...

[Lily Sawyer]

I just took a quick look at the location & month poll, and it's looking like Bangor in July or August is going to win outas our locale for the Great SKMB Hobnob.

I also slipped over to weather.com and learned that August in Bangor tends to be a tad cooler than July....and about an inch less wet than either July or August, which bodes well for a gathering in a town park or state campground.

Sooooooooo.....based upon those facts and figures, I'll make a suggestion with some qualifying arguments:
Labor Day weekend is August 31 and September 1, with Labor Day itself on September 2. This is a) a long holiday weekend in the U.S. that is typically a family's last hurrah to go somewhere (and could be a reason why some folks here willl be unable to attend an SKMB bash), and b) a weekend when I'm guessing none of us want to vie with more folks for access to campground showers and fire pits, or tables in restaurants. Camping and beach time over Labor Day weekend are extremely popular, so I suggest we avoid meeting up then, as motels, places of interest, and parking lots are going to be overrun with the masses. (Mr. King has written plenty of references to Maine being a popular destination for summertime and holiday vactioners, most notably in Thinner and The Stand.)

That leaves us with the weekends of August 3-4, 10-11, 17-18, and 24-25.

I say we meet closer to the end of August, and choose between the 17-18 and 24-25.

(Was all of that clear as mud? I hope so. I'm just trying to get a weekend established so that people can have the option of making reservations for anything well in advance.) :)

[randallFlaggfan1]

Well... I won't be going to Maine, for financial reasons, but... I live in an RV park, and the spots right next to us are open, if anyone is closer to Hardin, Montana than other places. It's $25 a night, though. But we have a grill and lots of venison steaks...


Hi, Tawn!

I'm not too terribly far from you.:smile2: Washington state.

[gniknehpets]

Love the idea of August in Maine! Earlier would maybe be better as there seems to be a lot of teachers here on the board? Can't wait!!!

[Lily Sawyer]

Are we in agreement that the Great SKMB Hobnob (is there another name for it?) is going to occur in Bangor?

I can put up a second (well, technically third) poll to determine which weekend in August is The One, if you guys think another more specific vote is the fairest way to go. (I just re-read my post; aside from typos, the glaring mistake was that August is less wet than either July or September. *sigh* I sometimes get into too much of a rush when I'm typing. But it was my argument for having the shindig in August instead of July or after Labor Day weekend.)

[Damaris]

August is the busiest tourist time of year everywhere in the northern hemisphere ... is that really the leading choice right now? It's honestly about the worst time there is; no matter what the destination, we're going to be elbowing our way through armies of other tourists who are trying to squeeze in an outing before school starts. And everything is going to be at its most expensive to take advantage of that. I'd rather do Bangor in late January. Seriously, any other other time of year is going to be better than August.

[91rewoT]

I know we're not voting, but I'm going to anyway!!! My daughter is getting married August 11th and I go back to work at the end of August, so.....I'm hoping for the 17th & 18th or 3rd & 4th!!!

(pets, you are NOT going by yourself if it ends up being the 11th. We are going to be drinking wine together at the wedding. Just sayin')

[91rewoT]

Um, yeah, so apparantly I need to respond to my own post. T19, your daughter is getting married August 11th of THIS year.

[tower-obsession]

Hi, Tawn!

I'm not too terribly far from you.:smile2: Washington state.

Well, come on over; we'll have our own little SKMB pod. We have Wi-Fi all set up, too.

[GNTLGNT]

...Those dates look good, shouldn't interfere with my taking the show car to our annual downtown Summer Cruise-In...yeah I know, but if I'm waxin' that baby-it's a goin'....

[dsurrett]

I just took a quick look at the location & month poll, and it's looking like Bangor in July or August is going to win outas our locale for the Great SKMB Hobnob.

I say we meet closer to the end of August, and choose between the 17-18 and 24-25.

(Was all of that clear as mud? I hope so. I'm just trying to get a weekend established so that people can have the option of making reservations for anything well in advance.) :)


I'd suggest one of the later weekends mentioned. I've only been camping once and don't plan on increasing that number, so a non-peak weekend would be good.
Has anyone talked about how long the event would be? Thursday or Friday through Sunday, with people coming and going as their schedules allowed?

[Moderator]

...Those dates look good, shouldn't interfere with my taking the show car to our annual downtown Summer Cruise-In...yeah I know, but if I'm waxin' that baby-it's a goin'....

If you bring it here on a Wednesday, you can join others at Nicky's Cruisin' Diner (http://www.nickysdiner.com/pages/cruise.php) where they have a get together every week in the summer and people bring their classic cars. The diner is a favorite spot of Steve's when he's in town and they make real old-fashioned milkshakes, prices are reasonable, food is diner-style comfort food. :smile2:

[Moderator]

I'd rather do Bangor in late January. Seriously, any other other time of year is going to be better than August.

And as an added attraction, the end of July/beginning of August is typically when they have the Bangor State Fair--the largest state fair in Maine which is held at Bass Park, the location of the infamous Paul Bunyan statue. :smile2:

[GNTLGNT]

If you bring it here on a Wednesday, you can join others at Nicky's Cruisin' Diner (http://www.nickysdiner.com/pages/cruise.php) where they have a get together every week in the summer and people bring their classic cars. The diner is a favorite spot of Steve's when he's in town and they make real old-fashioned milkshakes, prices are reasonable, food is diner-style comfort food. :smile2:

...Well spank my mouse!...I'd even let him drive the old girl...after he cleaned the bugs off, from the trip up there...:rofl:

[GNTLGNT]

I'm not sure this image will post...but our Cruise-In is pretty big for our little town...

http://s3.amazonaws.com/newscloud-production/daily-jeff/2011/08/4e3977247fd0dc20b8000047/photos/8-3%20Cruise%20In/original.jpg?1312414608

[~Ally~]

Um, yeah, so apparantly I need to respond to my own post. T19, your daughter is getting married August 11th of THIS year.

:rofl: Damn you crack me up! Had you been knocking back the Mad Housewife vino when you posted? I can hear you saying; "This mad housewife don't need no vino!" :oo:

Anyhoo, the end of August would be absolutely perfect timing for me. I already have holidays in place there for when I finish my nursing management so wouldn't have to use extra holidays like I will if we meet earlier. Either way, I will definitely be there if it's July/August time.

[blunthead]

I just took a quick look at the location & month poll, and it's looking like Bangor in July or August is going to win outas our locale for the Great SKMB Hobnob.

I also slipped over to weather.com and learned that August in Bangor tends to be a tad cooler than July....and about an inch less wet than either July or August, which bodes well for a gathering in a town park or state campground.

Sooooooooo.....based upon those facts and figures, I'll make a suggestion with some qualifying arguments:
Labor Day weekend is August 31 and September 1, with Labor Day itself on September 2. This is a) a long holiday weekend in the U.S. that is typically a family's last hurrah to go somewhere (and could be a reason why some folks here willl be unable to attend an SKMB bash), and b) a weekend when I'm guessing none of us want to vie with more folks for access to campground showers and fire pits, or tables in restaurants. Camping and beach time over Labor Day weekend are extremely popular, so I suggest we avoid meeting up then, as motels, places of interest, and parking lots are going to be overrun with the masses. (Mr. King has written plenty of references to Maine being a popular destination for summertime and holiday vactioners, most notably in Thinner and The Stand.)

That leaves us with the weekends of August 3-4, 10-11, 17-18, and 24-25.

I say we meet closer to the end of August, and choose between the 17-18 and 24-25.

(Was all of that clear as mud? I hope so. I'm just trying to get a weekend established so that people can have the option of making reservations for anything well in advance.) :)Good word, Lily, and everyone else for that matter. :love:

[Lily Sawyer]

August is the busiest tourist time of year everywhere in the northern hemisphere ... is that really the leading choice right now? It's honestly about the worst time there is; no matter what the destination, we're going to be elbowing our way through armies of other tourists who are trying to squeeze in an outing before school starts. And everything is going to be at its most expensive to take advantage of that. I'd rather do Bangor in late January. Seriously, any other other time of year is going to be better than August.

I agree with you. August is not my first choice of months to meet up. However, there are some things we have to keep in mind while planning this....

If we want to include Ms. Mod in our Great Hobnob, we have to remember that her work volume dramatically increases after Labor Day. She's not just a moderator on the website; she's Mr. King's personal assistant. As such, she's responsible for all arrangements related to book releases, book signing tours, interview scheduling, hotel accommodations, event security, etc. Things speed up for her if he has a book that's due to be released in the fall. And as far as I know, Dr. Sleep will be no exception to that general rule. Because of fall book releases and the holidays, she thus tends to take vacation in the spring. And then we go straight into Easter/graduation/wedding season. So late summer really is one of the very few times when we can get together and include the Modster. I think there will be a number of people who won't want to risk being delayed by weather if we have the shindig in February or March.

When kids are in school, parents are less likely to be able to attend.

There's no law that says you must camp if you attend. I'm not a camper and have every intention of booking a room somewhere. Everyone's on their own regarding accommodations. However, it's likely that a gathering will occur in a state park, a town park, or at a campground, so weather then becomes a deciding factor. A month where rain is less likely then makes more sense.

I don't think I'm false in assuming that there's a tacit agreement between those who attend and those who can't make it: those in Bangor will make an effort with computers to include long-distance SKMBers via Skype. We won't be able to control a time differential, but at least the effort will be made to say howdy to folks like Flake or Johanna, even if it's at 3:00 AM their time.

- I hope all that makes sense. I'm not dissing your protest of the event being in August, but there are seasonal restrictions we're having to work around.

[Lily Sawyer]

Folks have made some good points about the timing of this bash:

Non-peak campground and motel rates happen during the week. And Ms. Mod has mentioned both Nicky's and the Bangor State Fair.

1. The dates for the 2012 State Fair are July 27 - August 5, so I'm guessing the dates for 2013 will be similar. It's an argument for meeting earlier, as it's an event that people might want to attend. Should we reconsider meeting earlier in August? The nay argument is that there will be more people hanging around Bangor during that time.

2. Nicky's vintage car bash is on a Wednesday. Are we married to the idea of meeting up only over a weekend (saves people vacation days from work if that's the case), or shall we make the event during the week to save on accommodation rates?

- Just thought I'd throw that out there.

[randallFlaggfan1]

Well, come on over; we'll have our own little SKMB pod. We have Wi-Fi all set up, too.


Sounds great, cupcake!:smile2:

[tower-obsession]

Sounds great, cupcake!:smile2:

Awesome! You and your lovely wife are most welcome.

[dsurrett]

Folks have made some good points about the timing of this bash:
Non-peak campground and motel rates happen during the week. And Ms. Mod has mentioned both Nicky's and the Bangor State Fair.
1. The dates for the 2012 State Fair are July 27 - August 5, so I'm guessing the dates for 2013 will be similar. It's an argument for meeting earlier, as it's an event that people might want to attend. Should we reconsider meeting earlier in August? The nay argument is that there will be more people hanging around Bangor during that time.
2. Nicky's vintage car bash is on a Wednesday. Are we married to the idea of meeting up only over a weekend (saves people vacation days from work if that's the case), or shall we make the event during the week to save on accommodation rates?
- Just thought I'd throw that out there.

If I can throw out a suggestion, maybe have an "if you can get there early" event at Nicky's on Wednesday night then have official festivities Thursday and Friday, spilling over to Saturday for those who can stay over an extra day or two. The class reunions I've been to have setup similarly, with people coming and going as their schedules dictate.

[Moderator]

I was speaking with the director at the Bangor Convention and Visitors Bureau about something else a few days ago and mentioned in passing that there had been discussions about a SKMB convention in Bangor in 2013. They are the ones who do the Tommyknockers tours (it's a bus tour of various Stephen King-related sites) so I asked if they would be willing to add on extras if there was enough interest since they only do them a few times a year currently. She told me there would be no problem whatsoever and if we needed any assistance at all in planning the convention, she'd be more than happy to help.

[randallFlaggfan1]

Awesome! You and your lovely wife are most welcome.

Awww.... you're a sweetheart!
If you and your husband are ever in the area, you're likewise welcome.


I was speaking with the director at the Bangor Convention and Visitors Bureau about something else a few days ago and mentioned in passing that there had been discussions about a SKMB convention in Bangor in 2013. They are the ones who do the Tommyknockers tours (it's a bus tour of various Stephen King-related sites) so I asked if they would be willing to add on extras if there was enough interest since they only do them a few times a year currently. She told me there would be no problem whatsoever and if we needed any assistance at all in planning the convention, she'd be more than happy to help.

Hi, Ms. Mod-

Great idea, IMO, that's very cool!

Thank you for asking.

[Damaris]

I agree with you. August is not my first choice of months to meet up. However, there are some things we have to keep in mind while planning this....

If we want to include Ms. Mod in our Great Hobnob, we have to remember that her work volume dramatically increases after Labor Day. ... So late summer really is one of the very few times when we can get together and include the Modster.
When kids are in school, parents are less likely to be able to attend.
There's no law that says you must camp if you attend. I'm not a camper and have every intention of booking a room somewhere.
I'm not dissing your protest of the event being in August, but there are seasonal restrictions we're having to work around.

I understand, Lily, and I know summer is all-around the best option for the Great Shindig. But August... Aside from the normal overwhelming run of tourists, the state fair brings in 60-70,000 people the first weekend or so and the folk festival brings in around 150,000 the third week or so. Bangor's population is only about 35,000 to begin with, so these are big influxes of people. Flights are higher, rooms are higher, traffic is worse, blah blah blah, I'm a real Negative Nelly. Just ... is July completely out of the question?

[Patricia A]

Good morning Hob-nobblins!
I have a suggestion. I think it would be a good idea to have a memorial for members who have gone into the clearing. I'm thinking that those of you who play guitars and other portable instruments could play and we could all sing Hey Jude to remember and honor them. Apropos?

[GNTLGNT]

...just gonna throw it out there, but when this event comes to fruition and I'm able to get there...if ya'll would like a big voice to make announcements or emcee anything, I would be honored to help...

[tower-obsession]

Good morning Hob-nobblins!
I have a suggestion. I think it would be a good idea to have a memorial for members who have gone into the clearing. I'm thinking that those of you who play guitars and other portable instruments could play and we could all sing Hey Jude to remember and honor them. Apropos?

Great idea!

[Patricia A]

...just gonna throw it out there, but when this event comes to fruition and I'm able to get there...if ya'll would like a big voice to make announcements or emcee anything, I would be honored to help...
I think you'd be the perfect emcee. One thing though, you will be able to get there. I say so.

[GNTLGNT]

I think you'd be the perfect emcee. One thing though, you will be able to get there. I say so.

...YES ma'am!!!...

....begins practicing to remember chorus of "Hey Jude*....

[tower-obsession]

...YES ma'am!!!...

....begins practicing to remember chorus of "Hey Jude*....

:rofl:

[~Ally~]

...just gonna throw it out there, but when this event comes to fruition and I'm able to get there...if ya'll would like a big voice to make announcements or emcee anything, I would be honored to help...

Ooh ooh, can I be your glamorous assistant? Or do only magicians have those? :umm:
Don't get any ideas about sawing me in half Mr Man! :eek2:

*I'm gonna stop talking now!*

[dsurrett]

I told my wife about the gathering and asked if wives could come along and that she'd never been that far north (Bangor, Maine.) I told her the group will most likely be predominantly female so wives and husbands could come. I was playing trivia on Stephen King Central on Facebook at the time and when she saw almost all of the other participants were women, she said she'd definitely be going to Maine with me.

[blunthead]

...YES ma'am!!!...

....begins practicing to remember chorus of "Hey Jude*....It can be tricky, GNT. I heard it goes something like, "Nah, nah, nah, nah nah nah, Nah! Nah nah nah Nah! Hey...", etc.

[randallFlaggfan1]

Good morning Hob-nobblins!
I have a suggestion. I think it would be a good idea to have a memorial for members who have gone into the clearing. I'm thinking that those of you who play guitars and other portable instruments could play and we could all sing Hey Jude to remember and honor them. Apropos?

I think that's a fantastic idea, Patricia!


...just gonna throw it out there, but when this event comes to fruition and I'm able to get there...if ya'll would like a big voice to make announcements or emcee anything, I would be honored to help...

You'd be the prefect emcee, Scott, IMO!

[blunthead]

...almost all of the other participants were women...I am so going!

[hossenpepper]

I vote for August 14th as the kickoff date. Mostly because it's my birthday, which makes it awesome.

Will it be OK if I set up a burrito stand and make a little scratch?

How about grilled possum on a stick? Unicorn jerky?

[Lily Sawyer]

I understand, Lily, and I know summer is all-around the best option for the Great Shindig. But August... Aside from the normal overwhelming run of tourists, the state fair brings in 60-70,000 people the first weekend or so and the folk festival brings in around 150,000 the third week or so. Bangor's population is only about 35,000 to begin with, so these are big influxes of people. Flights are higher, rooms are higher, traffic is worse, blah blah blah, I'm a real Negative Nelly. Just ... is July completely out of the question?

The only way to decide this is to do it democratically and vote on it.
I've started yet another poll based upon previous poll results: the given (so far) is that the location is Bangor, and the preferred months (so far) are July or August.
I've listed all Fridays & Saturdays in both months so that folks have an idea of when they may have conflicts, with the assumption that Thursday will be included in the final dates.
July isn't out of the question at all! I think it won't make much of a difference, though, when it comes to Bangor being overrun with tourists, as there are festivals all over the state in July and August.
If it were left up to me, I'd have this happen in the first week of May.
I was merely pointing out that July is a wetter month than August in Bangor (as well as a warmer one), and if we're wanting to gather outdoors (the cheapest way to do this), rain is less likely to intrude if the event is scheduled for August.

So when the poll goes up, please vote! It's the only fair way to determine when we convene.

[GNTLGNT]

Ooh ooh, can I be your glamorous assistant? Or do only magicians have those? :umm:
Don't get any ideas about sawing me in half Mr Man! :eek2:

*I'm gonna stop talking now!*

...assistant?...why sure...just wear something very low cut...and I'll wear somethin' frilly....

[GNTLGNT]

It can be tricky, GNT. I heard it goes something like, "Nah, nah, nah, nah nah nah, Nah! Nah nah nah Nah! Hey...", etc.

...I know, but I always slip up and leave out at least one "nah"...and if you've ever left your "nah" out-you know how painful that can be....

[Garriga]

I'll can bar tend.

[gniknehpets]

I'll can bar tend.

And I can attend the bar...

[OCSOUTHERNGIRL430]

I would be willing to help :)

[Patricia A]

I told my wife about the gathering and asked if wives could come along and that she'd never been that far north (Bangor, Maine.) I told her the group will most likely be predominantly female so wives and husbands could come. I was playing trivia on Stephen King Central on Facebook at the time and when she saw almost all of the other participants were women, she said she'd definitely be going to Maine with me.

My Sissy is coming (my big sister). I talked her ear half off telling her about our plans, and by the end of it we had decided to go together and take the train in from WA. She's a Stephen King fan too. She's a total book head, she even reads the classics without being told to. She actually likes many of them too, go figure. Anyhow The Shining and The Stand are two of her all time favorite books ever and thinks the hobnob sounds like a lot of fun, plus she used to live in Maine about 100 years ago and would love to see it again.
Y'all are going to love her, she's the berries. :love:

[Lily Sawyer]

The poll to determine which part of July or August we'll meet is up. It's called 2013 SKMB Hobnob Weekend (http://www.stephenking.com/forums/showthread.php/25441-2013-skmb-hobnob-weekends-%28fridays-and-saturdays-are-listed%29?p=522039#post522039).

Please, please vote, as this is the only democratic, fair way to set dates for the shindig, something we need to do NOW.
Why?
It gives people plenty of time to a) request vacation days well in advance; b) investigate accommodations and possibly book something now instead of at the eleventh hour; c) determine how they will travel to Bangor; and d) allow the planners set dates with which to work. (See Ms. Mod's note about setting up a tour of All Things Related to Stephen King in Bangor through the Chamber of Commerce.....nothing can be done until firm dates are established.)

More details to come as they arise. :-)
Thanks for voting!

[Lily Sawyer]

Please note:

The poll for determining the dates of the Hobnob will close May 31.
The majority will be the final decision - no amending it.
June 1 will be the announcement of the dates!

So cast your vote! Your input is very appreciated!

[hossenpepper]

This is just a suggestion: Perhaps instead of just taking the one with the most votes, it would be best to take the top 2 or 3 vote-getters and then have a final vote on those dates only. The reason I say this is there are such a large number of choices, the winner will most likely only be by a vote or two and not necessarily the "majority".

Alternatively, I could go eat a burrito and hush...

[Lily Sawyer]

This is just a suggestion: Perhaps instead of just taking the one with the most votes, it would be best to take the top 2 or 3 vote-getters and then have a final vote on those dates only. The reason I say this is there are such a large number of choices, the winner will most likely only be by a vote or two and not necessarily the "majority".

Alternatively, I could go eat a burrito and hush...

Huh? I don't understand how a set of dates that has the most votes ISN'T the majority.

People are willing to vote only so many times on the matter. At the time I started a thread to get people to vote (yesterday), they had more than two weeks to do so, which is plenty of time to ponder.

While I'm not the presiding authority over the Hobnob planning, I'm very aware that we need to etablish a date NOW so that other things, like public gathering permits, insurance (mandatory if we want to meet up in a park or on a campground without police presence), organized tours of King-related locales, can be obtained. I think another vote will only delay matters further and end in yet another close margin.

But if you strongly feel there needs to be another vote, knock yourself out and start another poll....but I'd wait to see how many votes have accrued by the end of May before you do.

[Patricia A]

http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d120/clavdivs/stephen-kings-thinner.jpg

That meme is a complete non sequitur, but I thought it was funny, so there you go.
I was looking for the picture of Uncle Steve I saw a long time ago that said VOTE DAMMIT, but I couldn't find it, so there you go again.
If we just keep on moving forward and have a decision by June first we'll be fine.
Gotta keep momentum, it'll be next year before we know it.
Tempest fugets, right?

[Moderator]

We have the Study, Dammit picture on the main portion of the site at this link (http://www.stephenking.com/gallery.html). Is that the one you were thinking of?

[Patricia A]

We have the Study, Dammit picture on the main portion of the site at this link (http://www.stephenking.com/gallery.html). Is that the one you were thinking of?

:dunno: I musta dreamed the VOTE DAMMIT one. Wouldn't put it past me. :biggrin2:

[Moderator]

You very well could have. It's been edited a number of times. Remember when we had it up with "Read the FAQ, Dammit!" instead? :biggrin2:

[hossenpepper]

Huh? I don't understand how a set of dates that has the most votes ISN'T the majority.

People are willing to vote only so many times on the matter. At the time I started a thread to get people to vote (yesterday), they had more than two weeks to do so, which is plenty of time to ponder.

While I'm not the presiding authority over the Hobnob planning, I'm very aware that we need to etablish a date NOW so that other things, like public gathering permits, insurance (mandatory if we want to meet up in a park or on a campground without police presence), organized tours of King-related locales, can be obtained. I think another vote will only delay matters further and end in yet another close margin.

But if you strongly feel there needs to be another vote, knock yourself out and start another poll....but I'd wait to see how many votes have accrued by the end of May before you do.

If ten people vote and the most votes cast for a single choice is 3, is that a majority? It isn't at all, because 70% DIDN'T vote for the winner. By definition a majority is 50.1% or more. If you get that result from your vote, then you have your answer. If you don't, then you have the most desirable choices to a plurality of the group getting the most collective votes. Think of it as a primary and then a general election.

[Patricia A]

I see what you are saying hoss. However we need to nail down a date ASAP so that we (Lily) can start making reservations etc. I don't see a problem with having polls that narrow down the best possible date for everyone. We just need to get 'er done. Lily has taken this on as per request, as she knows how to do this stuff, and she needs as much time as possible so we can get the best rates and do this as inexpensively as possible.
We also need to hook up with a tech nerd (I say nerd affectionately) to start getting the logistics on the Skype thing too. Lots of eggs in this omelet.
http://i266.photobucket.com/albums/ii258/uic5/omlette.jpg
(Looks kinda like quiche to me... but it says it's an omelet and it looks happy, so omelet it is.)

[hipmamajen]

What not to bring up


Dungeons and Dragons


Wait, since when in Dungeons and Dragons off the list? I was going to play really hard between now and then so I can level up and get a bigger Bag of Holding and some new Flying Boots to wear!

[Patricia A]

So I told my boss today that I would need about 2 weeks off next summer. (My sister and I are going to take the train into Maine and take our time).
He isn't big on giving time off during summer so I thought I'd break it to him ASAP. He nearly had a cow until I told him I said, "next" summer. He was so relived that I didn't mean this year that he said OK.
I ought to ask him to put a note in my employee file saying that he said yes. Trust issues? Some.

Oh and after further discussions with my sis about Maine, she said it was New Hampshire she lived in, not Maine. I have never been to the New England area, so to me it's all Maine I guess. :tongue:

I do know for sure though that I wish it was this summer, or that we could just *POOF* and all be there right now even LOL.
I am going to be so pissed if the world ends this December.

[popsqueak]

WOW is this still gonna be next year? I live in New Zealand, but would definately love to go! I will start saving. This would be great.. which month are you guys looking at?

[popsqueak]

Date would be great, the kiwi girl is coming.... save save save

[Patricia A]

WOW is this still gonna be next year? I live in New Zealand, but would definately love to go! I will start saving. This would be great.. which month are you guys looking at?

We don't know for sure yet, here's the thread we are voting in. It's going to be either in July or August. We are still in the early stages of planning so popsqueak on over there and vote for your favorite weekend. :love:
Me, I'm open to any of them but I went with the weekend of the 19th and 20th of July.

2013 skmb hobnob weekends (fridays and saturdays are listed)

http://www.stephenking.com/forums/showthread.php/25441-2013-skmb-hobnob-weekends-%28fridays-and-saturdays-are-listed%29

[Moderator]

If a reasonably-priced caterer could be found, it might be fun to have a traditional New England clambake and BBQ the last night before the convention ends. Typical fare for a clambake is lobsters, clams (steamers), corn on the cob, and baked potatoes and then there are variations with mussels, onions with butter, salt & pepper all wrapped in aluminum foil so they come out tasting sweet. Dessert is typically blueberry pie a la mode and/or strawberry shortcake. The BBQ would be the usual hamburgers and hot dogs, etc. I think I've just drooled on myself. :biggrin2:

[Patricia A]

If a reasonably-priced caterer could be found, it might be fun to have a traditional New England clambake and BBQ the last night before the convention ends. Typical fare for a clambake is lobsters, clams (steamers), corn on the cob, and baked potatoes and then there are variations with mussels, onions with butter, salt & pepper all wrapped in aluminum foil so they come out tasting sweet. Dessert is typically blueberry pie a la mode and/or strawberry shortcake. The BBQ would be the usual hamburgers and hot dogs, etc. I think I've just drooled on myself. :biggrin2:

OMG we could have a pie eating contest!

[Moderator]

:laugh: In that case, I think we need to add Ipecac to the list of banned items!! :eek2:

[not_nadine]

Oh man! Ms. Mod.. yum

http://ts3.mm.bing.net/images/thumbnail.aspx?q=4552133346854002&id=dea3979eca8bf44f6680caefbd0ee6e5

http://outercapeclambake.com/XXX/108.JPG

[Lily Sawyer]

15605

[~Ally~]

I think I've just drooled on myself. :biggrin2:

Glad I'm not the only one. Yummy yummy, get in my tummy! <---Me wee mind just said that as Fat Bastard from Austin Powers. :blush:


OMG we could have a pie eating contest!

As soon as I read blueberry pie I thought; 'Lardass!' :barf:

[Cthulhu]

Oh yeah! Count me in! I would love to meet all of you wonderful folks. I would love to hear you all quote from Mao's Little Red Book from memory and opine about what a wonderful dude Che was. When and where? Just let me know!

[~Ally~]

Oh yeah! Count me in! I would love to meet all of you wonderful folks. I would love to hear you all quote from Mao's Little Red Book from memory and opine about what a wonderful dude Che was. When and where? Just let me know!

:rofl: Your sarcasm emanates well over the internets...I doth my cap to thee oh Dark Lord Cthulhu!

[Patricia A]

Oh yeah! Count me in! I would love to meet all of you wonderful folks. I would love to hear you all quote from Mao's Little Red Book from memory and opine about what a wonderful dude Che was. When and where? Just let me know!
We will be minding our manners, oh he of Lovecraftian lore. You are welcome to come but no one is going to ruin this with divisive issues. You got that?

[~Ally~]

You are welcome to come but no one is going to ruin this with divisive issues. You got that?

Well, that's me out! Just when I was getting excited too. :down:

[Mojo*mofo]

Ally, Patay, you guys are so kind. :love:

Now I'm super sorry I won't get to go to the SKMBCon...

[Cthulhu]

Still no one has told me when and where. What gives?

[Beep-Beep]

Still no one has told me when and where. What gives?

Would not your presence drive everyone insane - or am I confusing my Cthulhu with my Deadlights???? :biggrin2:

[dsurrett]

The exact dates are yet to be determined, a weekend in July or August of 2013, the place will be Bangor, Maine. I think it's all very loosely organized to this point.

[Beep-Beep]

Anyone suggested a corresponding shindig in the UK for us British members? Any appetite?

[Lily Sawyer]

Still no one has told me when and where. What gives?

Go to Survey says.....and please vote on the Friday & Saturday in July or August that you'd like to be the Hobnob dates. (The Thursday before will also be included, but was omitted for the sake of brevity.)

It's going to be in Bangor, and we're in the very early planning stages. We've just got to get firm dates established first before we can do anything else.
The poll will close at the end of May, so you've got time to ponder what's best for you.

[Patricia A]

Still no one has told me when and where. What gives?

The details and plans thus far are plastered all over this thread, easy peasy lemon squeezy links are provided to all polls thus far. All you have to do is read the thread, no secret society here Kid Calimari. BTW we are looking for a volunteer to be the human pinata. It's a great gig, you get to eat lots and lots of candy. Interested?

[Cthulhu]

We are looking for a volunteer to be the human pinata. Interested?

No. I take this statement as some sort of veiled threat, actually. Are you saying you want to beat me with a stick? If so, that would construe a threat of violence.

Not cool broski. Not cool.

[~Ally~]

No. I take this statement as some sort of veiled threat, actually. Are you saying you want to beat me with a stick? If so, that would construe a threat of violence.

Not cool broski. Not cool.

:rofl: I thought it was a rather interesting job offer myself. Could be one to consider, especially in these difficult economic times. Look at it this way...being beaten with a stick could be character building, and is the perfect way of separating the weak from the strong. This is how you usual reasoning works...no?? :dunno:
Ooh shoot, thought I was responding to you in the bullying thread there, my bad! Ah well, done bun can't be undone. :smile2:

[Mojo*mofo]

No. I take this statement as some sort of veiled threat, actually. Are you saying you want to beat me with a stick? If so, that would construe a threat of violence.

Not cool broski. Not cool.


I guess it's only cool when the "threats" (and I lose the term usely) happen to someone smaller, weaker and they are just askin' for it... :oo:

[Spooky Chick]

Anyone suggested a corresponding shindig in the UK for us British members? Any appetite?

I'm hoping we will be able to join in via skype, but with all the talk of food, bbqs, camping, and human pinata's, I may just have to save up to fly over! :p

[Moderator]

Volunteer: : a person who performs a service willingly and without pay

[~Ally~]

Volunteer: : a person who performs a service willingly and without pay

Yar, see I viewed the 'you get to eat lots and lots of candy' part as payment. I'm easily pleased! :wink2: Hey Patricia, if the candy includes reesespeanutbuttercupminis then I'll take the gig! :y:

[Mojo*mofo]

:rofl: I thought it was a rather interesting job offer myself. Could be one to consider, especially in these difficult economic times. Look at it this way...being beaten with a stick could be character building, and is the perfect way of separating the weak from the strong. This is how you usual reasoning works...no?? :dunno:
Ooh shoot, thought I was responding to you in the bullying thread there, my bad! Ah well, done bun can't be undone. :smile2:


15614

[blunthead]

No. I take this statement as some sort of veiled threat, actually. Are you saying you want to beat me with a stick? If so, that would construe a threat of violence.

Not cool broski. Not cool.:rofl::rofl::rofl::rofl::rofl:

[Cthulhu]

I guess it's only cool when the "threats" (and I lose the term usely) happen to someone smaller, weaker and they are just askin' for it... :oo:

Sounds to me like some folks like to talk out of both sides of their mouths. I was merely pointing out the double standard that seems to exist here, nothing more.

Now, I am off to rat out Patricia A. to my guidance counselor. My feelings have been quite hurt by these threats, and I may never recover. This event will no doubt scar me for life. Years from now I will still be working through therapy to reduce the damage caused by this violent threat. I hope you all are happy...

[Patricia A]

No. I take this statement as some sort of veiled threat, actually. Are you saying you want to beat me with a stick? If so, that would construe a threat of violence.

Not cool broski. Not cool.

It's purely on a voluntary basis. You don't have to be a pinata if you don't want to be. Don't get your teabag in a wad kiddo. :laugh:

[Mojo*mofo]

15614


ARRRGH!!! I swear, it shows the graphic when I post it. It's showing it now, as I quote it!

[Moderator]

ARRRGH!!! I swear, it shows the graphic when I post it. It's showing it now, as I quote it!

I'm thinking something has been changed with the software in the way images are displaying because that's happening a lot lately. Even after I approve the attachment, it still will only show up once the link is clicked. :dunno:

[~Ally~]

I'm thinking something has been changed with the software in the way images are displaying because that's happening a lot lately. Even after I approve the attachment, it still will only show up once the link is clicked. :dunno:

Yeh, I noticed that last week when I uploaded the frog pic from my computer files. Experiment time...does the picture show from a URL when I untick the "Retrieve remote file and reference locally" box?

http://image.blingee.com/images18/content/output/000/000/000/6db/659404245_1212881.gif

[Moderator]

Yes, and I don't have to approve it as an attachment.

[hossenpepper]

No. I take this statement as some sort of veiled threat, actually. Are you saying you want to beat me with a stick? If so, that would construe a threat of violence.

Not cool broski. Not cool.

Well I happen to know Patricia A is female so why are you calling her bro?

This looks to me to be libel.

Being PRICKly doesn't make you hip or interesting. Just pointing that out as you keep digging that well and all.

[hossenpepper]

Sounds to me like some folks like to talk out of both sides of their mouths.

And some folks just run theirs ad nauseum when they don't have to face people in real life.

[Patricia A]

Sounds to me like some folks like to talk out of both sides of their mouths. I was merely pointing out the double standard that seems to exist here, nothing more.

Now, I am off to rat out Patricia A. to my guidance counselor. My feelings have been quite hurt by these threats, and I may never recover. This event will no doubt scar me for life. Years from now I will still be working through therapy to reduce the damage caused by this violent threat. I hope you all are happy...

OK now, you are being silly. No one who says the things things you do to other people, could ever possibly be so hurt by a little quid pro quo. You can't fool me. :wink2:

The truth to be told, I don't think you have any intention of attending the thing to begin with.... as a matter of fact, I think you are just here to poo in the Cheerios.
No, no wait.....you must be... Dean Koontz! AH HA! So Busted Dean, own it dude.

[blunthead]

Add to the above lists as follows...

What not to bring up

A Kardashian
A Lohan
A Hilton
Perceived factual inaccuracies in any Stephen King-authored book, especially 11/22/63.
Plans for Ms. Mod's reti...for her to stop, even temporarily, doing for a living what she is doing.

What to bring up

Fishing
Grilling
Meat, especially "red"
Fried burritos
Bikinis
Yasmine Bleeth
Diane Lane
Gambling
A campaign to obstruct Ms. Mod's ret...oh, you know.
To the list titled "What not to bring up" please add Handguns in Stephen King literature, especially revolvers.

[GNTLGNT]

And some folks just run theirs ad nauseum when they don't have to face people in real life.

http://magiccards.info/scans/en/ala/63.jpg

[Cthulhu]

And some folks just run theirs ad nauseum when they don't have to face people in real life.

I am still waiting for a time and date so I can associate with all the good folks here at the SKMB and run my mouth "in real life".

As far as calling Pat a "bro", why is this such a big deal? Here in the dictatorship of the proletariat, things like race, gender, sex, ect are all blurred. We are all equal. No one is better than anyone else. One who attempts to separate him/herself from the pack should be considered a rabble rouser and an enemy of the state.

I'm just tryin' to go with the flow, bro...

[Beep-Beep]

OK now, you are being silly. No one who says the things things you do to other people, could ever possibly be so hurt by a little quid pro quo. You can't fool me. :wink2:

The truth to be told, I don't think you have any intention of attending the thing to begin with.... as a matter of fact, I think you are just here to poo in the Cheerios.
No, no wait.....you must be... Dean Koontz! AH HA! So Busted Dean, own it dude.

:rofl::rofl::rofl: - That honestly made me laugh out loud bro

[Patricia A]

I am still waiting for a time and date so I can associate with all the good folks here at the SKMB and run my mouth "in real life".

As far as calling Pat a "bro", why is this such a big deal? Here in the dictatorship of the proletariat, things like race, gender, sex, ect are all blurred. We are all equal. No one is better than anyone else. One who attempts to separate him/herself from the pack should be considered a rabble rouser and an enemy of the state.

I'm just tryin' to go with the flow, bro...

We'll build a bridge for you. :wink2:

[Patricia A]

Now back to business, shall we? We are in countdown mode for choosing which dates are best for you. The board will be closed for the long weekend. So if you have a preference, follow this link and vote.


http://i110.photobucket.com/albums/n96/sehinson76/VoteDammit_1stFrame-1.jpg


http://www.stephenking.com/forums/sh...-are-listed%29

[dsurrett]

At this point, two weekends are tied for the lead. If it stays tied, or if the top two weekends are only separated by a few votes, I'd suggest putting them head to head for the final decision and giving folks a couple of weeks to vote. Hopefully that wouldn't complicate things too much. That would still give over a year for everyone to make plans if they're interested.

[Patricia A]

Now back to business, shall we? We are in countdown mode for choosing which dates are best for you. The board will be closed for the long weekend. So if you have a preference, follow this link and vote.


http://i110.photobucket.com/albums/n96/sehinson76/VoteDammit_1stFrame-1.jpg


http://www.stephenking.com/forums/sh...-are-listed%29


OOPS the link doesn't work, the name of the thread to vote for your weekend is called, "2013 skmb hobnob weekends (fridays and saturdays are listed)."

BTW I think Hossenpepper is working on a run-off poll as we speak. It'll prolly be up after the long weekend.

Thanks to our troops, past and present on this Memorial Day.

http://i415.photobucket.com/albums/pp236/Keefers_/Memorial%20Day%20Weekend/2e5093a1.gif

[hossenpepper]

Just FYI... I am on vacation until next Wednesday. When I return we should have the final 2 or 3 weekends from which to choose. At that point I will put up the poll and leave it open for one week I believe. Perhaps til June 8th if that is not too long or too late to determine this with finality.

To avoid politicization of the democratically chosen dates in the final poll, there will be a separate 3rd party poll with only one choice on it. It will be for those that find themselves unable to see things in any other way but their own...

...often to the point of dismissal of obvious logic... bro.

[not_nadine]

People are going to walking around with some goofy nametags. Not naming names or nothin.

[Patricia A]

People are going to walking around with some goofy nametags. Not naming names or nothin.

If we had enough scratch we could all have t-shirts made with our avatars on them LOL!

[FlakeNoir]

C'mon people... July 20th is my birthday, I so dare you to celebrate together on that weekend--and hey, if you can't make it to my place (not looking good right now, :laugh:) then I'll just close my eyes and pretend you're here anyway! :biggrin2: :love:

[gniknehpets]

MY birthday is July 21st and I think having my birthday party with all of you would be the most awesome birthday of my life!!!

[~Ally~]

If we had enough scratch we could all have t-shirts made with our avatars on them LOL!

Hmm, I know a pretty cool lady that could make those tee's! :y: Belladonna :love:

[blunthead]

If we had enough scratch we could all have t-shirts made with our avatars on them LOL!I think having SKMB Convention 2013 T-shirts made might be doable. I hear belladonna does shirts. The idea sounds very cool to me! Maybe some members who could afford to could purchase and donate a few to MyLife4YouSK, Eminent Guardian of the Stephen King Trivia Game, to be used for contest awards.

[Spideyman]

What about using the SKMB tee shirts already available from he SK store at Cafe press. This would also help out the Haven Foundation.

[hossenpepper]

What about using the SKMB tee shirts already available from he SK store at Cafe press. This would also help out the Haven Foundation.

You so smart, Spidey!!

Plus, I know someone a few miles south of you that will most likely drive to the event and therefore negates your excuses for not going!! :-)

[~Ally~]

You so smart, Spidey!!

Plus, I know someone a few miles south of you that will most likely drive to the event and therefore negates your excuses for not going!! :-)

Spidey, you have to come to this event, especially if Hoss is willing to drive you there! Wooohooo. :y:

[hossenpepper]

Spidey, you have to come to this event, especially if Hoss is willing to drive you there! Wooohooo. :y:

26 hours in a car with me is awesome. Just ask Marsha about my amazing driving skills. I am able to navigate soul food as well as the east coast... :laugh:

[Moderator]

:y:

[randallFlaggfan1]

What about using the SKMB tee shirts already available from he SK store at Cafe press. This would also help out the Haven Foundation.

Fantastic idea, Spidey!!:biggrin2:

[Spideyman]

You so smart, Spidey!!

Plus, I know someone a few miles south of you that will most likely drive to the event and therefore negates your excuses for not going!! :-)

Tons of obligations to the critters, but I never say never. It's a year away and there'll be a way if God wills it.

[cat in a bag]

So, I was just checking on prices for train tickets, just to give me a ball park idea how much it would cost. Hubby thought the shin-dig was going to be this summer, but when I explained it wasn't until next summer, he thinks we can swing that! Whoo-hoo!! He is even excited about a train ride!

[Kenzie Lou Who]

That sounds like pure fun. Too bad I probably couldn't go unless I borrowed my moms GPS.

[Patricia A]

That sounds like pure fun. Too bad I probably couldn't go unless I borrowed my moms GPS.
Then borrow you must do Kenzie Lou Who. :smile2:

[randallFlaggfan1]

So, I was just checking on prices for train tickets, just to give me a ball park idea how much it would cost. Hubby thought the shin-dig was going to be this summer, but when I explained it wasn't until next summer, he thinks we can swing that! Whoo-hoo!! He is even excited about a train ride!

Hmm... I thought it was this year, too... I guess I should pay closer attention, huh?

[Patricia A]

Hmm... I thought it was this year, too... I guess I should pay closer attention, huh?

Couldn't hurt LOL.

[PatInTheHat]

Then borrow you must do Kenzie Lou Who. :smile2:
Who's on first:eyebrow:.

[blunthead]

Who's on first:eyebrow:.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c6ogFYWUlgA

[Hoofbeat]

id be up for it.. except im in Australia and im only 15 ahaha :/

[randallFlaggfan1]

id be up for it.. except im in Australia and im only 15 ahaha :/


Does one's age make a difference, Patricia?

[Patricia A]

Does one's age make a difference, Patricia?

I would imagine that if a custodial adult can accompany the minor, and make sure that said minor was not amok, it could be done. (Not to imply that you would be amok Hoofbeat. :wink2:)
Some members may want to bring their kids, and there probably should be room for them, but I would keep in mind that we ain't going to Jellystone Park to celebrate Yogi Bear.
Good question RF. :y:
What do y'all think?

[Hoofbeat]

Does one's age make a difference, Patricia?
Ones strict parents do. :P

[Patricia A]

Ones strict parents do. :P

I see that you have access to Skype. Maybe you could help people who live close to you participate via Skype? With your parents approval of course. :y:

[Drawn to Ka-tet]

Carpools sound like a great idea. This brings me back to trains. I have train on the brain syndrome for some reason.
not nadine said she may be able to look into deals from Am Track. :y:

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b184/SnarPlaya/planestrainsautomobiles.jpg


Why does this make me think of Blaine the mono?

I vote for Maine. It is the center of Sai King's universe.
Long days and pleasant nights.

[gniknehpets]

It seems there are quite a few of us who are thinking of taking the train. Wouldn't it be something if we could coordinate our date of leaving so we would pick up people across the nation and all arrive together on the same train!

[GNTLGNT]

I would keep in mind that we ain't going to Jellystone Park to celebrate Yogi Bear.


What do y'all think?


....I am vehemently opposed to Boo-Boo attending....he'd do nothing but spy for Ranger Smith...

http://www.nationalnannies.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/boo-boo.jpg

[randallFlaggfan1]

Why does this make me think of Blaine the mono?

I thought the same thing..:smile2:


It seems there are quite a few of us who are thinking of taking the train. Wouldn't it be something if we could coordinate our date of leaving so we would pick up people across the nation and all arrive together on the same train!

Great idea, Pets! That would be awesome!

[themedic]

This would be fun!! My wife and I go to Bangor every year since our Honeymoon there 7 years ago. We take out Canada savings bonds and instead of flying to Cuba or Dominican we drive to Maine!! I love it there.

[Patricia A]

My sister and I are coming in from Seattle by train. If anyone wants to meet along the way that would be word. (I couldn't think of the right word for FEKKING WONDERFUL, so I said word.)
The Stevewarts Express at gate 19 1/2 full of first years. :biggrin2:

I am going to start looking into this as soon as we get a solid date. This is word.

[~Ally~]

My sister and I are coming in from Seattle by train. If anyone wants to meet along the way that would be word. (I couldn't think of the right word for FEKKING WONDERFUL, so I said word.)
The Stevewarts Express at gate 19 1/2 full of first years. :biggrin2:

I am going to start looking into this as soon as we get a solid date. This is word.

http://chzhistoriclols.files.wordpress.com/2012/02/funny-pictures-history-by-this-account-the-bird-is-indeed-the-word.jpg

I tried to resist responding this way--predictably--but y'all make it too damn easy for me to give into temptation! :devil:

[gniknehpets]

Patricia A! You'll be going through Chicago which is where my sister and I would catch the train if we do that instead of flying. We would loooove to meet up with you two! That would be so word!!!

[not_nadine]

Wish I still worked for Amtrak, for many reasons... :down:

[gniknehpets]

Wish I still worked for Amtrak, for many reasons... :down:

So do we...:laugh:

[Patricia A]

Wish I still worked for Amtrak, for many reasons... :down:
Yes, about that.
I was just thinking about you and your insider info on train travel. Can coordinating schedules even be done without extra expense and heartache? Is it too impractical?
Of course we have to wait to see for sure when it's going to happen but I was wondering how we could pull off matching train stuff and words..... I don't even know what I am saying LOL.
Lord bless me I mean well. :biggrin2:

[randallFlaggfan1]

My sister and I are coming in from Seattle by train. If anyone wants to meet along the way that would be word. (I couldn't think of the right word for FEKKING WONDERFUL, so I said word.)
The Stevewarts Express at gate 19 1/2 full of first years. :biggrin2:

I am going to start looking into this as soon as we get a solid date. This is word.

Hi, Patricia-

If things do work out for the better and I'm actually able to meet up with the MB, your idea would be perfect for me, as you're relatively close to me. Roughly 3 hours away, I think.:)

[not_nadine]

Patricia, I worked in the Engineering Dept not directly on the transit side. I just drew 'em.

But yes, I do know of instances where groups of people traveled together to attend staff meetings and things of that nature. (I've done it) and hell, it's fun.

Mr. Joe Biden would take himself and staff to DC from Delaware all the time before he was VP. Same with sports teams. You can rent out an entire car. or more.

I will get on it for more details. Promise.

[Patricia A]

http://chzhistoriclols.files.wordpress.com/2012/02/funny-pictures-history-by-this-account-the-bird-is-indeed-the-word.jpg

I tried to resist responding this way--predictably--but y'all make it too damn easy for me to give into temptation! :devil:

Wery pert, Miss oh so young and pretty. Wery pert indeed. :biggrin2:


Patricia, I worked in the Engineering Dept not directly on the transit side. I just drew 'em.

But yes, I do know of instances where groups of people traveled together to attend staff meetings and things of that nature. (I've done it) and hell, it's fun.

Mr. Joe Biden would take himself and staff to DC from Delaware all the time before he was VP. Same with sports teams. You can rent out an entire car. or more.

I will get on it for more details. Promise.

Thank you into infinity!!!!!
I wish I could just draw a train.

[GNTLGNT]

I was going to say something stupid about "pulling" a train...then realized how way the hell out of proportion THAT would get...ummmmmmm blown, si I'll simply retire to the sleeping car and pull the covers over me head...

[Patricia A]

I was going to say something stupid about "pulling" a train...then realized how way the hell out of proportion THAT would get...ummmmmmm blown, si I'll simply retire to the sleeping car and pull the covers over me head...

OMG I KNEW IT! LMFAO!!! I knew someone was going to catch that and I was almost certain it would be you! You sooo bad! I am far too old and tired for that type of shenanagree. I'd be doing good to pull a wagon, may not even survive that.... folks can die like that you know.
Thanks for the hearty laugh in my morning coffee Scott, you bad boy.

[Patricia A]

The poll is officially closed and we have a date! So round up your hobs and polish your nobs, start making plans and quit your jobs.... not really, don't quit your jobs. I should get my poetic license pulled for that one. We have chosen the weekend of July 19th, 2013.

[dsurrett]

My wife thinks we should drive so we can see the sites along the way, especially Washington, DC. 1400 miles from Birmingham to Bangor. At least I have a year to try to overrule her. I'd rather get on a plane on Wednesday morning and have dinner at the place in Bangor that has the weekly classic car shows.

[Patricia A]

A reminder to all. This is next year, 2013.
I'd hate for someone to show up in Bangor this summer to find themselves all alone and friendless, thinking that this whole thing was a cruel joke played on them by the SKMBers, thus flinging themselves off of a bridge and into the abyss never to be seen or heard from again. OK?

[randallFlaggfan1]

The poll is officially closed and we have a date! So round up your hobs and polish your nobs, start making plans and quit your jobs.... not really, don't quit your jobs. I should get my poetic license pulled for that one. We have chosen the weekend of July 19th, 2013.

Why, that's fantastic news! Thank you for sharing.


A reminder to all. This is next year, 2013.
I'd hate for someone to show up in Bangor this summer to find themselves all alone and friendless, thinking that this whole thing was a cruel joke played on them by the SKMBers, thus flinging themselves off of a bridge and into the abyss never to be seen or heard from again. OK?



:rofl:

[hipmamajen]

I am putting it on my calendar.

Is anyone else bringing their horde, I mean, family?

[Damaris]

I'd hate for someone to show up in Bangor this summer to find themselves all alone and friendless, thinking that this whole thing was a cruel joke played on them by the SKMBers, thus flinging themselves off of a bridge and into the abyss never to be seen or heard from again.

They'd have to drive to Bucksport ... the Chamberlain just isn't high enough. :biggrin2:

[CarrieJo]

Okay, so it's going to be July 19th (weekend) in Bangor right? Is there a specific hotel this is going to be at or are we not there yet? I'm going to have to start saving ASAP so I'm trying to get an idea of the expenses.

[Patricia A]

Okay, so it's going to be July 19th (weekend) in Bangor right? Is there a specific hotel this is going to be at or are we not there yet? I'm going to have to start saving ASAP so I'm trying to get an idea of the expenses.

Yes it will be in Bangor but we don't have a specific spot staked out yet. We had mentioned reserving a campsite out of city limits to hold the event and camp out, and maybe those who don't want to camp can find accommodations at local hotels. I don't think that there will be too big of a crowd so I'm hoping finding a place to stay won't be too difficult.

I will get with the organizers this coming week to see where we are in the planning. Gosh I wish I knew WTF I was doing. I am so lame at making ideas happen. However, thank Gan I was born with a butt load of not giving up.

[blunthead]

Okay, so it's going to be July 19th (weekend) in Bangor right? Is there a specific hotel this is going to be at or are we not there yet? I'm going to have to start saving ASAP so I'm trying to get an idea of the expenses.We're not that far along yet. Even what we have is not written in stone but gradually hardening concrete with a view to becoming stone. Stay tuned.

[Moderator]

Let me know if there's anything I can do on this end. Getting in touch with the gal at the Bangor Visitors & Convention Center could be a big help in the planning of where to hold the event and she's the one who could put together the bus tour of Stephen King sites if people are interested.

[blunthead]

Let me know if there's anything I can do on this end. Getting in touch with the gal at the Bangor Visitors & Convention Center could be a big help in the planning of where to hold the event and she's the one who could put together the bus tour of Stephen King sites if people are interested.Only because you have nothing else to do, Mod, and because you just so happen to live there, we will probably use you as a local resource for continuing, good ideas and specific help. I think to contact the lady you mention is a perfect idea; in fact, to begin to gather as much info as she may supply sounds like the perfect next step to me.

[dsurrett]

Only because you have nothing else to do, Mod, and because you just so happen to live there, we will probably use you as a local resource for continuing, good ideas and specific help. I think to contact the lady you mention is a perfect idea; in fact, to begin to gather as much info as she may supply sounds like the perfect next step to me.

Is anybody tossing a ballpark attendance figure around yet? 20? 100? Seems like that would have a lot to do with the planning.