JANUARY 2008 EVENT INFO!!!!!

Wow Pricey I would say..I can understand cutting one back to save to have ONE on the road..by why january then..thats right after the holidays..grrr probably another yr I won't be able to go.Sorry dave I know you work hard on these..im just ranting..

I know, I know. These big events are never easy.  First, I do a January event because the numbers over the past 3 years have shown that more people are available in Janaury than during the summer.  I have over 30 more attendees In January than I do in June.  As a parent of 3, I understand that. It is hard for me to break away from yard work and kid's activities in June too. Second...the cost. I know that I could simply do a BBQ and I'd have a huge turnout of people within a reasonable drive. But these are designed to be "big scale" on purpose as people spend a lot of money to fly in from all over the country. Over half of the attendees at any givin event are from as far away as WA, NV, etc...and that's a long way to fly for a pool party and a dog...lol. Third - There are amazing local gatherings all year - the Fredericksburg/NOVA folks in particular, as well as the VA Beach group, are both very active about their regional gatherings - all of which are open to everyone at anytime. I know and believe me - understand - that dollars are tight. they are in my household as well. I also know that the costs associated with my events are not going to fall within everyone's budget. But I feel I made a great compromise this year by annoucing the event so far in advance so if it was any help to anyone to have the addional time to put some cash away (NEVER easy - I know!) - they would have that time. Also please note that these events are not "income generators"...Once I choose the menus for teh dinner and b'fast - the registration fees still may be 50-60 bucks per person. That sounds like a lot for two meals. But it's more than just two meals to me. It's room rentals, it's set-up fees, it's rentals of putting greens, it's paying a set-up fee and a bartender fee for a cash bar...and here has to be a "cushion" built in to each "per person" fee to accommodate for those fees that no one ever associates with their "dinner".  I'm sorry if it appears that I am preaching - but I thought your post was as good as anyone's to go ahead and address this... Thanks for your note...I am happy to know that you cared enough to want to come, and truly hope that one day you can. David

Not to worry I didn't take it as preaching I took it as explanning..Was just curious..this is something I used to do..Party planning...worked more for the military but also was(well still am) a wedding cordinator on the side..why I was curious. Thanks a bunch for explanning !!

A lot of people room together to cut down on the amount of money you spend....have you considered doing that??? It"s also a great way to get to know folks

Yes I am aware some share rooms..but,I honestly don't know many peeps..It's allright tho..I probably will sit this yr out for I have a ton on my plate .