CP 5 - requesting Los Angeles

musiclover
musiclover Member Posts: 242
edited March 2014 in Colorectal Cancer #1
L.A. is warm, pretty beaches, lot's to do. Anyone game?
«1

Comments

  • KathiM
    KathiM Member Posts: 8,028 Member
    Naked beaches, movie stars, Disneyland....

    Hugs, Kathi
  • StacyGleaso
    StacyGleaso Member Posts: 1,233 Member
    Good suggestion! However, and I may be wrong, but I think CP-5 & CP-6 are already in stone. So maybe CP-7 or CP-8? I think there is an unwritten rule that you must attend a Palooza prior to becoming a host city. Rules, rules, rules!

    I am happy to see more people getting interested in attending these full-blown bashes.....they are amazing!!!

    Stacy
  • KathiM
    KathiM Member Posts: 8,028 Member

    Good suggestion! However, and I may be wrong, but I think CP-5 & CP-6 are already in stone. So maybe CP-7 or CP-8? I think there is an unwritten rule that you must attend a Palooza prior to becoming a host city. Rules, rules, rules!

    I am happy to see more people getting interested in attending these full-blown bashes.....they are amazing!!!

    Stacy

    So, where are 5 and 6???? Is it a secret????
    Sigh, no one EVER tells me secrets....
    Please please pleeeeeeeeze????

    Hugs, kathi
  • Betsydoglover
    Betsydoglover Member Posts: 1,248 Member

    Good suggestion! However, and I may be wrong, but I think CP-5 & CP-6 are already in stone. So maybe CP-7 or CP-8? I think there is an unwritten rule that you must attend a Palooza prior to becoming a host city. Rules, rules, rules!

    I am happy to see more people getting interested in attending these full-blown bashes.....they are amazing!!!

    Stacy

    Not a big deal, but I kind of share Kathi's thought. Is there a "secret handshake" or something? Where are the next two Paloozas? (I think I saw something about Niagra Falls and given chemo brain and all, I may have seen more. but still............) I know lots of you have been friends for a long time, but I thought I would ask. Sadly (or maybe a good thing since it means treatments are improving) the colorectal patient population is growing!

    Betsy
  • oneagleswings
    oneagleswings Member Posts: 425 Member
    Hey everyone.
    I have never heard that you have needed to attend a Palooza to host one??? About a year ago, it was suggested that we consider Canada in the plans and Lisa Rose stepped up to the plate with an offer to co-ordinate one in Halifax...I mentioned that I would be happy to organize one in Niagara Falls the following year (it had been suggested warm places in Winter ...LA sounds inviting) and the not so warm places in fall??

    I have never been to a palooza but I KNOW for a fact that EVERYONE on this site is welcome- be they a survivor or caregiver...so...I am not sure where the one for this winter will be but I am offering to co-ordinate one for fall 2007 in Niagara Falls...not sure if there is a protocol for doing so..can anyone help???
    I think there have been a fairly small number of people attending the palooza's and hope that as our numbers on this site increase so will the attendance at these events...
    Bev
  • vinny3
    vinny3 Member Posts: 928 Member
    Anywhere warm sounds good, esp to me now. Where are the next ones slated to be and are there any tentative dates?
    Dicdk
  • scouty
    scouty Member Posts: 1,965 Member
    Hi Everyone,

    As one of the 3 that has been fortunate enough to be able to attend all 4 paloozas I need to give you some background info. The first palooza, only 3 attended but it was amazing!!!!!!!!!! Many more said they would while we were planning but reality hits, treatments, surgeries, money and other things get in the way. The second one was in Vegas because our west coast buds wanted "equal time" and it was only fair to geographically disperse them. When we got to Vegas, only 1 West Coast person attended. While in Vegas, we realized we lost "a local flavor and blew chances for comaraderie that a "host" could provide. We decided Austin was next and with 3 local semi-colons actively involved it was wonderful. Kanga and his lovely wife Jen as well and Lisa Rose and Andy added the unique international appeal and having btcup and bsrules there as widowers was awesome to say the least.

    Lisa Rose and Andy had paid the most money to travel to the previous 3 AND traveled the furthest so it was decided in Vegas that Halifax was the next spot.

    We were trying to reach out geographically and the whole "rule" about attending one before you host one is so you don't make the mistakes that we have made. It takes time and effort to host one and it isn't just about "I can't afford to travel and live in a pretty cool place so bring one to me".

    When you host a palooza, you have to sign a contract with a hotel giving a great rate for at least 15 people BUT if for some reason, it is cancelled, that person gets hit with a charge of 15 rooms on their credit card. Their is risk involved. I can tell you that the number of people that say they will attend a palooza when it is being originally planned will decrease by 2/3 by the time the palooza comes around (30 said they would come to Halifax and we will have 8) That is just the reality of the disease and life.

    Anyway, spring is for warm weather and seeing things most haven't seen. Fun and relaxation is required. We will be talking about it this weekend in Halifax and will definitely keep you posted.

    I'm thinking we are doing something terribly wrong since attendance is not that great and I personally am ready to bail on the entire idea and not be involved in the future. I have loved every minute of every one and just don't understand it all. I can always keep up with the wonderful, loving friends I have already met.

    You ideas and thoughts about this are so welcome. What are we doing wrong????????????????

    Lisa P.
  • JADot
    JADot Member Posts: 709 Member
    scouty said:

    Hi Everyone,

    As one of the 3 that has been fortunate enough to be able to attend all 4 paloozas I need to give you some background info. The first palooza, only 3 attended but it was amazing!!!!!!!!!! Many more said they would while we were planning but reality hits, treatments, surgeries, money and other things get in the way. The second one was in Vegas because our west coast buds wanted "equal time" and it was only fair to geographically disperse them. When we got to Vegas, only 1 West Coast person attended. While in Vegas, we realized we lost "a local flavor and blew chances for comaraderie that a "host" could provide. We decided Austin was next and with 3 local semi-colons actively involved it was wonderful. Kanga and his lovely wife Jen as well and Lisa Rose and Andy added the unique international appeal and having btcup and bsrules there as widowers was awesome to say the least.

    Lisa Rose and Andy had paid the most money to travel to the previous 3 AND traveled the furthest so it was decided in Vegas that Halifax was the next spot.

    We were trying to reach out geographically and the whole "rule" about attending one before you host one is so you don't make the mistakes that we have made. It takes time and effort to host one and it isn't just about "I can't afford to travel and live in a pretty cool place so bring one to me".

    When you host a palooza, you have to sign a contract with a hotel giving a great rate for at least 15 people BUT if for some reason, it is cancelled, that person gets hit with a charge of 15 rooms on their credit card. Their is risk involved. I can tell you that the number of people that say they will attend a palooza when it is being originally planned will decrease by 2/3 by the time the palooza comes around (30 said they would come to Halifax and we will have 8) That is just the reality of the disease and life.

    Anyway, spring is for warm weather and seeing things most haven't seen. Fun and relaxation is required. We will be talking about it this weekend in Halifax and will definitely keep you posted.

    I'm thinking we are doing something terribly wrong since attendance is not that great and I personally am ready to bail on the entire idea and not be involved in the future. I have loved every minute of every one and just don't understand it all. I can always keep up with the wonderful, loving friends I have already met.

    You ideas and thoughts about this are so welcome. What are we doing wrong????????????????

    Lisa P.

    Hi Lisa P:

    I don't think you're doing anything wrong. It's just like you said, there's time, money, joggling treatment schedule, work schedule, kids' soccer, baseball and football seasons. Lisa F is literally up to her elbows in making snacks for her kids' football team. So please don't feel that you've done something wrong after having done so much for your friends and other on the board.

    So far I've just counted my blessings because I've been able to meet w/ Kanga and the Jen in San Francisco, Beverly and Judy in Boston, Terri and Kerry in San Francisco. Who knows, I could be knocking on your door soon :)

    About the attendance - I'm sure you've heard about it elsewhere too - size isn't everything :) You said you've enjoyed every past Palooza, and that's what really matters.

    Cheers and have a great time at CP4!
    Ying
  • CAMaura
    CAMaura Member Posts: 719 Member
    scouty said:

    Hi Everyone,

    As one of the 3 that has been fortunate enough to be able to attend all 4 paloozas I need to give you some background info. The first palooza, only 3 attended but it was amazing!!!!!!!!!! Many more said they would while we were planning but reality hits, treatments, surgeries, money and other things get in the way. The second one was in Vegas because our west coast buds wanted "equal time" and it was only fair to geographically disperse them. When we got to Vegas, only 1 West Coast person attended. While in Vegas, we realized we lost "a local flavor and blew chances for comaraderie that a "host" could provide. We decided Austin was next and with 3 local semi-colons actively involved it was wonderful. Kanga and his lovely wife Jen as well and Lisa Rose and Andy added the unique international appeal and having btcup and bsrules there as widowers was awesome to say the least.

    Lisa Rose and Andy had paid the most money to travel to the previous 3 AND traveled the furthest so it was decided in Vegas that Halifax was the next spot.

    We were trying to reach out geographically and the whole "rule" about attending one before you host one is so you don't make the mistakes that we have made. It takes time and effort to host one and it isn't just about "I can't afford to travel and live in a pretty cool place so bring one to me".

    When you host a palooza, you have to sign a contract with a hotel giving a great rate for at least 15 people BUT if for some reason, it is cancelled, that person gets hit with a charge of 15 rooms on their credit card. Their is risk involved. I can tell you that the number of people that say they will attend a palooza when it is being originally planned will decrease by 2/3 by the time the palooza comes around (30 said they would come to Halifax and we will have 8) That is just the reality of the disease and life.

    Anyway, spring is for warm weather and seeing things most haven't seen. Fun and relaxation is required. We will be talking about it this weekend in Halifax and will definitely keep you posted.

    I'm thinking we are doing something terribly wrong since attendance is not that great and I personally am ready to bail on the entire idea and not be involved in the future. I have loved every minute of every one and just don't understand it all. I can always keep up with the wonderful, loving friends I have already met.

    You ideas and thoughts about this are so welcome. What are we doing wrong????????????????

    Lisa P.

    Well, Lisa, the control-freak issues of last year changed my mind. There was e-mail-fighting and I thought it was rude and did not serve anyone; I backed away. Well, it served the few who wanted to fight for their own idea of what 'should occur' to prevail -- but maybe without a few attendees (like me).
    The funny thing is that a lot (and I say this was a lot of sincerity) of the people who attend the CPs don't post often...I find that a little odd, but whatever; to each his own... But, the fact that they don't post often and then market the event is a bit incongruous and could be creating some perception of exclusivity. I am sure that is not the intent, but it could -- nevertheless -- remain the perception. Anyway -- just my thoughts.
    Have a great time...I am sure Canada is just beautiful right now. I personally think the 'rules' thing about these events is outdated...I think it is creating a self-imposed exclusivity (and, for some, maybe extinction?).
    Just a thought as you ponder why you don't have a huge crowd; although, families and work and life are also involved!!
    - Maura
    Los Angeles is beautiful -- and this is coming fro someone who was RAISED to hate Southern California. Maybe you have to understand the weird and mixed California culture to get my last statement, but believe me, Los Angles has a lot to offer...It is beautiful -- and would be worth every penny. If the current path insn't working to achieve optimum attendance, why not change 'the rules'?
  • musiclover
    musiclover Member Posts: 242
    CAMaura said:

    Well, Lisa, the control-freak issues of last year changed my mind. There was e-mail-fighting and I thought it was rude and did not serve anyone; I backed away. Well, it served the few who wanted to fight for their own idea of what 'should occur' to prevail -- but maybe without a few attendees (like me).
    The funny thing is that a lot (and I say this was a lot of sincerity) of the people who attend the CPs don't post often...I find that a little odd, but whatever; to each his own... But, the fact that they don't post often and then market the event is a bit incongruous and could be creating some perception of exclusivity. I am sure that is not the intent, but it could -- nevertheless -- remain the perception. Anyway -- just my thoughts.
    Have a great time...I am sure Canada is just beautiful right now. I personally think the 'rules' thing about these events is outdated...I think it is creating a self-imposed exclusivity (and, for some, maybe extinction?).
    Just a thought as you ponder why you don't have a huge crowd; although, families and work and life are also involved!!
    - Maura
    Los Angeles is beautiful -- and this is coming fro someone who was RAISED to hate Southern California. Maybe you have to understand the weird and mixed California culture to get my last statement, but believe me, Los Angles has a lot to offer...It is beautiful -- and would be worth every penny. If the current path insn't working to achieve optimum attendance, why not change 'the rules'?

    I didn't realize there were so many politics involved. I figured people threw out ideas, set a date and people showed up. Why does one person have to be responsible for all the hotel rooms? People can't make their own reservations? Rooms and flights to L.A. are dirt cheap booked months in advance. Just asking...

    Aside from the warm weather aspect and zillions of things to do here (free jazz concerts, the Getty, Disneyland for those interested, beaches galore, touristy junk and movie stars), Mark probably won't be traveling much now or possibly ever so that was a selfish, easy solution on my part to his being a part of something fun.
  • kerry
    kerry Member Posts: 1,313 Member

    I didn't realize there were so many politics involved. I figured people threw out ideas, set a date and people showed up. Why does one person have to be responsible for all the hotel rooms? People can't make their own reservations? Rooms and flights to L.A. are dirt cheap booked months in advance. Just asking...

    Aside from the warm weather aspect and zillions of things to do here (free jazz concerts, the Getty, Disneyland for those interested, beaches galore, touristy junk and movie stars), Mark probably won't be traveling much now or possibly ever so that was a selfish, easy solution on my part to his being a part of something fun.

    Well, ok, here goes my opinion.

    The Colon-Paloozas are GREAT! Scouty is absolutely correct about people making commitments and not showing up. I am one of those this year due to this disease. I am back on chemo and sick as a dog!! (most of the time)

    When the Palooza was in Biloxi, MS, it was small (3) and it was easy for everyone to get in contact and make plans for dinner, drinks, whatever. In Las Vegas we had a pretty good showing, however, as Scouty said, only 1 was from the West Coast. Also, when you go to a destination where most folks are not familiar with their surroundings, and you have 8 - 10 or more people show up it is like herding cats! How do you get together without someone organizing such things??? The purpose of the Palooza is to spend some meaningful time with the special people from here at the site, to give each other support and friendship. So far, the past Paloozas have done just that. It takes a lot of work on someones part to organize it.

    As far as prices of hotels and air!!! We all want to stay at the same place, otherwise we wouldn't see each other at all. Air travel can be made in advance with good rates, BUT hotels need the organization of someone and you get a good rate when you block a group of rooms. That is common knowledge. I appreciate all who stepped up to the plate and worked their tails off to help make our past Paloozas the best.

    It is not just throwing out ideas, set a date and everyone shows up...... I wish it were that easy.

    As for the rule "those who attend plan the next Palooza location". I think that is very fair. I've talked to some folks who are NOT on treatment, and CAN afford the trip, but just talk a good talk and then don't show.

    As for some of the "older" survivors not posting much - Have you seen the amount of posts of newbies lately???? By the time you try to post a reply the original post is off the page!! It has become very difficult to keep up. I check the site everyday, but cannot reply to everyone. Also, many times when we don't hear from someone, it is not that they just don't post anymore, but that things in their life are not doing well. Do you check on these folks????? Well, a lot of us do.

    As for keeping locations a secret??????......there are no secrets. There have been posts and posts almost begging folks to reply and respond about attending and giving information months in advance.

    As far as the comment of exclusivity of planning - I say, attend a Palooza. You make good friends, become very bonded and involved. Yes, things happen and you make contact again other than on the CSN board - that is human nature. But I assure you that most everyone here has a deep pit in their tummies when one of us, whoever they are, is not doing well. And we do rally our support and prayers. There are some folks who are not posting because THEY ARE VERY SICK! There are some who are doing well and have gotten on with their lives, work, family and do not have the time to reply every day.

    I don't recall any e-mail fighting about the last Palooza, but maybe I'm being naive. I thought it was a wonderful experience. I'm sorry Maura that you were offended.

    Well, all that being said. I wish I had been able to attend Halifax. You just can't imagine the warmth and comfort you feel and the friendships you make. "Don't knock it till you've tried it".

    As Ying said, when we travel as part of our daily lives, it is fun to meet some fellow semi-colons. Lots of folks have their own mini-paloozas over coffee or dinner somewhere.

    To al of you in Halifax - have a joyous time. Enjoy each other, laugh, cry and be well. I will miss each and every one of you.

    Kerry
  • StacyGleaso
    StacyGleaso Member Posts: 1,233 Member
    JADot said:

    Hi Lisa P:

    I don't think you're doing anything wrong. It's just like you said, there's time, money, joggling treatment schedule, work schedule, kids' soccer, baseball and football seasons. Lisa F is literally up to her elbows in making snacks for her kids' football team. So please don't feel that you've done something wrong after having done so much for your friends and other on the board.

    So far I've just counted my blessings because I've been able to meet w/ Kanga and the Jen in San Francisco, Beverly and Judy in Boston, Terri and Kerry in San Francisco. Who knows, I could be knocking on your door soon :)

    About the attendance - I'm sure you've heard about it elsewhere too - size isn't everything :) You said you've enjoyed every past Palooza, and that's what really matters.

    Cheers and have a great time at CP4!
    Ying

    I'll take San Francisco over LA ANYDAY!

    Maybe I'll be knocking on YOUR door Ying! lol

    Stacy
  • StacyGleaso
    StacyGleaso Member Posts: 1,233 Member
    kerry said:

    Well, ok, here goes my opinion.

    The Colon-Paloozas are GREAT! Scouty is absolutely correct about people making commitments and not showing up. I am one of those this year due to this disease. I am back on chemo and sick as a dog!! (most of the time)

    When the Palooza was in Biloxi, MS, it was small (3) and it was easy for everyone to get in contact and make plans for dinner, drinks, whatever. In Las Vegas we had a pretty good showing, however, as Scouty said, only 1 was from the West Coast. Also, when you go to a destination where most folks are not familiar with their surroundings, and you have 8 - 10 or more people show up it is like herding cats! How do you get together without someone organizing such things??? The purpose of the Palooza is to spend some meaningful time with the special people from here at the site, to give each other support and friendship. So far, the past Paloozas have done just that. It takes a lot of work on someones part to organize it.

    As far as prices of hotels and air!!! We all want to stay at the same place, otherwise we wouldn't see each other at all. Air travel can be made in advance with good rates, BUT hotels need the organization of someone and you get a good rate when you block a group of rooms. That is common knowledge. I appreciate all who stepped up to the plate and worked their tails off to help make our past Paloozas the best.

    It is not just throwing out ideas, set a date and everyone shows up...... I wish it were that easy.

    As for the rule "those who attend plan the next Palooza location". I think that is very fair. I've talked to some folks who are NOT on treatment, and CAN afford the trip, but just talk a good talk and then don't show.

    As for some of the "older" survivors not posting much - Have you seen the amount of posts of newbies lately???? By the time you try to post a reply the original post is off the page!! It has become very difficult to keep up. I check the site everyday, but cannot reply to everyone. Also, many times when we don't hear from someone, it is not that they just don't post anymore, but that things in their life are not doing well. Do you check on these folks????? Well, a lot of us do.

    As for keeping locations a secret??????......there are no secrets. There have been posts and posts almost begging folks to reply and respond about attending and giving information months in advance.

    As far as the comment of exclusivity of planning - I say, attend a Palooza. You make good friends, become very bonded and involved. Yes, things happen and you make contact again other than on the CSN board - that is human nature. But I assure you that most everyone here has a deep pit in their tummies when one of us, whoever they are, is not doing well. And we do rally our support and prayers. There are some folks who are not posting because THEY ARE VERY SICK! There are some who are doing well and have gotten on with their lives, work, family and do not have the time to reply every day.

    I don't recall any e-mail fighting about the last Palooza, but maybe I'm being naive. I thought it was a wonderful experience. I'm sorry Maura that you were offended.

    Well, all that being said. I wish I had been able to attend Halifax. You just can't imagine the warmth and comfort you feel and the friendships you make. "Don't knock it till you've tried it".

    As Ying said, when we travel as part of our daily lives, it is fun to meet some fellow semi-colons. Lots of folks have their own mini-paloozas over coffee or dinner somewhere.

    To al of you in Halifax - have a joyous time. Enjoy each other, laugh, cry and be well. I will miss each and every one of you.

    Kerry

    Kerry,

    You nailed every topic I was going to address. Few realize how negotiating costs of rooms helps enable more people to attend. Additionally, there are no secrets to the location. I believe Niagra Falls or Florida are on deck for April (springtime) and Chicago on deck for the fall (October-ish).

    And just for the record, I PERSONALLY realize how hectic days are....I get 3 hrs of sleep MAX each night, work full time, have 3 kids involved in everything under the sun, teach religion class 3 nights a week, run a cancer support group 2 nights a week, and maintain every aspect of running a household. SO, I "GET" IT! lol But I would never think of ruining a Palooza to cater to my sorry rear. If I can make it, I'm there! If not, I refuse to rain on someone else's efforts.

    Finally, I post daily. I am officially "cured" and don't require anything from anyone, but post daily to help one of my fellow semi colons face another day. Not sure who Maura is referring to, but sure as hell ain't me! lol And just because the post may not be here, I have the phone bills to prove other means of contacting my buddies on this site. I am not looking for a medal of honor, but people who know me know what I stand for, and I will not compromise that.

    And I'll have the backbone to say this....

    Lisa Rose and scouty are the only TWO (2) who have attended every Palooza. THERE ARE NOT THREE WHO HAVE!!!!!!!!!! They have every right to have opinions and input about things like location. Talk is cheap and their actions have proven that they ATTEND, don't just TALK about it! Finally, anyone who has a better way to handle things, have at it. If someone is interested in hosting one, feel free. Be prepared, but feel free. Nobody has to jump on the veterans' bandwagon, it's ok.

    Alright, now that I pissed off everyone, have a great day!

    Stacy
  • CAMaura
    CAMaura Member Posts: 719 Member
    kerry said:

    Well, ok, here goes my opinion.

    The Colon-Paloozas are GREAT! Scouty is absolutely correct about people making commitments and not showing up. I am one of those this year due to this disease. I am back on chemo and sick as a dog!! (most of the time)

    When the Palooza was in Biloxi, MS, it was small (3) and it was easy for everyone to get in contact and make plans for dinner, drinks, whatever. In Las Vegas we had a pretty good showing, however, as Scouty said, only 1 was from the West Coast. Also, when you go to a destination where most folks are not familiar with their surroundings, and you have 8 - 10 or more people show up it is like herding cats! How do you get together without someone organizing such things??? The purpose of the Palooza is to spend some meaningful time with the special people from here at the site, to give each other support and friendship. So far, the past Paloozas have done just that. It takes a lot of work on someones part to organize it.

    As far as prices of hotels and air!!! We all want to stay at the same place, otherwise we wouldn't see each other at all. Air travel can be made in advance with good rates, BUT hotels need the organization of someone and you get a good rate when you block a group of rooms. That is common knowledge. I appreciate all who stepped up to the plate and worked their tails off to help make our past Paloozas the best.

    It is not just throwing out ideas, set a date and everyone shows up...... I wish it were that easy.

    As for the rule "those who attend plan the next Palooza location". I think that is very fair. I've talked to some folks who are NOT on treatment, and CAN afford the trip, but just talk a good talk and then don't show.

    As for some of the "older" survivors not posting much - Have you seen the amount of posts of newbies lately???? By the time you try to post a reply the original post is off the page!! It has become very difficult to keep up. I check the site everyday, but cannot reply to everyone. Also, many times when we don't hear from someone, it is not that they just don't post anymore, but that things in their life are not doing well. Do you check on these folks????? Well, a lot of us do.

    As for keeping locations a secret??????......there are no secrets. There have been posts and posts almost begging folks to reply and respond about attending and giving information months in advance.

    As far as the comment of exclusivity of planning - I say, attend a Palooza. You make good friends, become very bonded and involved. Yes, things happen and you make contact again other than on the CSN board - that is human nature. But I assure you that most everyone here has a deep pit in their tummies when one of us, whoever they are, is not doing well. And we do rally our support and prayers. There are some folks who are not posting because THEY ARE VERY SICK! There are some who are doing well and have gotten on with their lives, work, family and do not have the time to reply every day.

    I don't recall any e-mail fighting about the last Palooza, but maybe I'm being naive. I thought it was a wonderful experience. I'm sorry Maura that you were offended.

    Well, all that being said. I wish I had been able to attend Halifax. You just can't imagine the warmth and comfort you feel and the friendships you make. "Don't knock it till you've tried it".

    As Ying said, when we travel as part of our daily lives, it is fun to meet some fellow semi-colons. Lots of folks have their own mini-paloozas over coffee or dinner somewhere.

    To al of you in Halifax - have a joyous time. Enjoy each other, laugh, cry and be well. I will miss each and every one of you.

    Kerry

    Kerry, I wasn't offended (and I am certainly not angry). I merely did what was right for me. The Paloozas (and the planning of them) are obviously more important to some than others; I am glad that all who have attended have had a great time...It would be pretty foolish to think otherwise!
    I continue to think the planning-rules are silly, but I like more free-form trips and for some that would not be enough structure...Bottom-line is that people are having a good time in Canada; those who wanted to or were able to attend are there -- the most important factor.
  • oneagleswings
    oneagleswings Member Posts: 425 Member
    Wow- holy toledo and all that!!! I was not aware that there was so much politics involved in Palooza's..and of course must have missed the post awhile back about the "must attend" a previous one to host one..guess if that is the case then Niagara Falls would be out since I have never been to a Palooza (husbands chemo schedule and costs have precluded it) as I'm sure that many on this board are dealing with....(but I wouldn't suggest I would host one without knowing how to schedule and plan an event (I've been involved with conference planning for years and years)..

    I have to admit though..that when I initially heard about the CP get togethers it did seem like it was "exclusive" and being a bit on the shy side and being the caregiver not the "patient" I wondered what it was all about...

    So- I guess the attendees and founders of the Palooza's will hash it out this weekend.....
    My suggestion (if they'd like one)..is to find out from all people on our site who would like to host one, what year (and time of year) and where they live...THEN if there is more than one person who offers perhaps it could be put to a collective vote based on how close, how cheap or whatever that would allow the most people to potentially attend and then decide at that point. My guess is that we would get more people attending if they could drive to the location (sometimes you are not sure how you'll feel when the dates come- so to book plane flights early and then not be able to go is an expense that may can't handle..)

    Hotels will hold a block of rooms until a certain date at usually a reduced rate BUT after that date- late comers can usually still get a room but will just have to pay a higher price.

    Hope that Palooza's will continue....
    Bev
  • kerry
    kerry Member Posts: 1,313 Member

    Wow- holy toledo and all that!!! I was not aware that there was so much politics involved in Palooza's..and of course must have missed the post awhile back about the "must attend" a previous one to host one..guess if that is the case then Niagara Falls would be out since I have never been to a Palooza (husbands chemo schedule and costs have precluded it) as I'm sure that many on this board are dealing with....(but I wouldn't suggest I would host one without knowing how to schedule and plan an event (I've been involved with conference planning for years and years)..

    I have to admit though..that when I initially heard about the CP get togethers it did seem like it was "exclusive" and being a bit on the shy side and being the caregiver not the "patient" I wondered what it was all about...

    So- I guess the attendees and founders of the Palooza's will hash it out this weekend.....
    My suggestion (if they'd like one)..is to find out from all people on our site who would like to host one, what year (and time of year) and where they live...THEN if there is more than one person who offers perhaps it could be put to a collective vote based on how close, how cheap or whatever that would allow the most people to potentially attend and then decide at that point. My guess is that we would get more people attending if they could drive to the location (sometimes you are not sure how you'll feel when the dates come- so to book plane flights early and then not be able to go is an expense that may can't handle..)

    Hotels will hold a block of rooms until a certain date at usually a reduced rate BUT after that date- late comers can usually still get a room but will just have to pay a higher price.

    Hope that Palooza's will continue....
    Bev

    Bev,

    We tried "throwing it out to the masses" a couple of years ago and it created a hurricane of replies and NO ONE could agree. Everyone has their own opinion, which is fine. However, (you being a conference planner for years, should know) a decision must be made and plans set and not everyone will agree all the time. Those who attended the Las Vegas palooza decided on the so called "rule" - because it is easier to do the "planning" in person at a Palooza. Please know that consideration is paid to location and to try to include as many folks as possible in close proximity.

    We are also aware that hotels only hold rooms at a special rate for so long. This is evidenced by Lisa Rose's reminders that time for room reservations was closing in. Also, there is now a website for the Semi-Colons that announces, gives information and phone numbers for Paloozas. www.colonpalooza.com That information has been posted at least a couple of times as well.

    I have seen no politics involved in the planning, only love and caring for everyone and trying to encourage folks to attend, because it is so special.

    Paloozas have NEVER been exclusive!! Just ask those who attended their first one in April. Jerseysue, bsrules, btrcup, nanuk, jana, kangatoo, suzannchili. I think they will all tell you it was like being with family. There are NO exclusions, be you a survivor, caregiver or widow.

    Believe me, Bev, you do not want to do a collective vote. It was a mess the last time. Much easier this way.

    I hope this helps explain why it is the way it is right now. Everyone is open to suggestion, but when lots of people have put their heart and soul into trying to do something good for all, the criticism is hard to take.

    Kerry
  • kerry
    kerry Member Posts: 1,313 Member
    CAMaura said:

    Kerry, I wasn't offended (and I am certainly not angry). I merely did what was right for me. The Paloozas (and the planning of them) are obviously more important to some than others; I am glad that all who have attended have had a great time...It would be pretty foolish to think otherwise!
    I continue to think the planning-rules are silly, but I like more free-form trips and for some that would not be enough structure...Bottom-line is that people are having a good time in Canada; those who wanted to or were able to attend are there -- the most important factor.

    Maura,

    I understand....but to get people together at some point, someone has to make a plan! Otherwise, for example, we could be in LA at different hotels, miles apart, all of us doing our own thing and never see each other.

    Perhaps Paloozas and the concept are not for everyone, and that is ok. They are optional, not required.
  • JADot
    JADot Member Posts: 709 Member

    I'll take San Francisco over LA ANYDAY!

    Maybe I'll be knocking on YOUR door Ying! lol

    Stacy

    For you Stacy, don't even knock, just walk right in :)

    Cheers,
    Ying
  • CAMaura
    CAMaura Member Posts: 719 Member
    kerry said:

    Maura,

    I understand....but to get people together at some point, someone has to make a plan! Otherwise, for example, we could be in LA at different hotels, miles apart, all of us doing our own thing and never see each other.

    Perhaps Paloozas and the concept are not for everyone, and that is ok. They are optional, not required.

    Exactly! And that is why I am not there...But ,last year, when there was e-mail complaining and people saying "Well, if is there, then I just won't attend." I thought: This is just simply stupid and NOT why I post on the site. It did create a system designed by a few, and that is fine -- but it might also be attended by those few who love that system.
    To be honest, attending is not important to me (at least presently). It might sound cruel to you, but it is not meant as a slight of any sort. You could not get me on a group bus trip for the life of me; so I am not shocked that I pass on the Paloozas. And if I did attend, I would probably like to choose my own hotel; some people are Motel 6ers, some like a B&B and some like the Biltmore or the Four Seasons. I like to have a choice and make my own choice. You bet that doesn't mean a group-rate...So be it. And I wouldn't want a lot of things planned every day...But that gets back to group travel...It has never been for me. I would be happy with two things planned for a four day trip and staying at the hotel of my choice -- and that does not seem to be the Palooza way. NO slight intended.
    Lisa was asking why there might not be a huge attendance and saying that she might "bail"; but when others on the site mention ideas, they are shot down in favor of the currrent procedure which is not producing great attendance...I cannot help but think about this in business terms (and yes, everything -- including behavior -- can be broken down this way); if you want a different result (better numbers) -- and you really want that to change -- maybe the process itself can sustain a little change. Take the emotion out of it (and that is hard) and look at the goal you wish to achieve. It is simply impossible to do the same thing over and over and wish for a different result! If Lisa (and other Palooza-peops) truly want a different outcome (numbers) it might take being open to considering something different; the current process will most likely give the status quo result...
    Okay -- Enough! Take care. Except for one thing... Ya can't find many Vagas hosts -- even from the West Coast. After about 24hrs or so, everyone is about 'done' with that town...Well, maybe not Wayne Newton...
  • StacyGleaso
    StacyGleaso Member Posts: 1,233 Member
    JADot said:

    For you Stacy, don't even knock, just walk right in :)

    Cheers,
    Ying

    You KNOW I will! And I'm bringing Kathi with me...she's always a party just waiting to happen!

    Hugs,
    Stacy