For years I've been talking about visiting y'all in the PacNW. Time for money where the mouth (fingers?) is!
After some discussion with locals, this is what we tentaively have (besides the dates, which BTW are Father's Day weekend): This looks like the most likely hotel. Internet, lounge(s), good-sized rooms with fridge/micro available. Close to the OMSI.
Tentative schedule: Friday - OMSI Saturday - board games at the hotel; possibly trip to farmer's market for those for whom it's not Shabbos Sunday - ? maybe botanical gardens
Powell's was also discussed.
[ June 25, 2008, 12:23 AM: Message edited by: rivka ]
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
*wonders if she can convince KPC that this would be an EXCELLENT way to spend Father's Day*
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Hmmm. 2 nights would be less than $200... And it's not THAT bad of a drive... Hmmmm... He does like to take "mini vacations"...
I sense that some bribery is in order. Posted by mr_porteiro_head (Member # 4644) on :
What will he have to give you?
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Wouldn't you like to know? Posted by mr_porteiro_head (Member # 4644) on :
Um, no thanks.
Posted by Shan (Member # 4550) on :
Way cool! Day trip! Posted by BandoCommando (Member # 7746) on :
Sweet! I'd be up for meeting up with Hatrackers in Portland.
Posted by BandoCommando (Member # 7746) on :
Grrr. That Friday is a workday for me. Last day of work before summer vacation. Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Yay! Shan is coming! Any idea which day?
Bando, sorry. Can you join us either of the other days?
Posted by BandoCommando (Member # 7746) on :
Should be able to. My wife will be coming too, most likely.
BTW, when you say farmer's market, do you mean the Portland Saturday Market?
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
I think so. But you're asking the person least likely to know.
Posted by BandoCommando (Member # 7746) on :
Info here. It's pretty fun if you haven't been there before. There's also usually some pretty darn good food. I wouldn't call it a farmer's market so much, since it really is more about crafts, etc. than it is about local produce.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by rivka: for those for whom it's not Shabbos
That was specifically to exclude me.
Posted by BandoCommando (Member # 7746) on :
Oh right. Duh.
edit to add: incidentally, Mrs. BC and I might be able to join the Friday expedition to OMSI later in the day. It all depends on how long it takes us to wrap up business at our schools that day. Our administrators may even allow us to finish our work later on. I know *I'M* planning on frequently visiting my office and band room over the course of the summer.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
There is now talk of fitting OMSI and Powell's both in on Friday. Either way, we'd love to have you two join us for as much as you can. Posted by BandoCommando (Member # 7746) on :
Powells is...amazing. If you love books (why else would you be on this website, eh?), then you MUST NOT miss out on Powell's in a visit to Portland.
...watch out for the crazy hippies, though... They migrate from Eugene every once in a while.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Yeah definitely want to see Powell's. I've been ordering from their website for years. Posted by Shan (Member # 4550) on :
Friday is Nathan's last day of school -- I think they are done at noon, so we could make it to Portland between 2-3 pm. Unless I can talk him out of going to the last day which is 'just' a field day . . . and taking a trip to Portland -- maybe by train . . . hmmm. . . I have a day retreat on Saturday, but Sunday is possible, too. If Greg is okay with a "Father's Day" trip to Portland.
Powell's is so awesome! *excited* It will be simply wonderful to meet rivka and all the other wonderful folks who can make it . . . *smile*
Posted by BandoCommando (Member # 7746) on :
I think I might be a bit overawed by Rivka's presence, particularly if she wears a digital display over her head that indicates her current post count.
But I, too, look forward to meeting all who can make it!
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Darn, I knew I forgot to update somewhere. I can't do that weekend; my eldest is graduating junior high.
We're still trying to figure out what date to do it instead . . . so far, nothing that works for everybody.
Bando, I leave the digital display at home. My mother would be scandalized if I wore something like that in public!
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Does anyone wish to register a preference or "can't make it" for either Memorial Day weekend or the last weekend in June?
Posted by Shan (Member # 4550) on :
Either is good to this point . . . but the sooner we decide, the sooner I can cross that time off on the calendar as booked!
I think the last weekend in June would be my "preference", though. But, either way . . .
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
My ex (who would have the kids) votes for Memorial Day. But can do either.
I'm going to wait a couple more days for any other yelps. Posted by mr_porteiro_head (Member # 4644) on :
I can do either as well.
I'll go ahead and register Beverly's preference for the last weekend in June.
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
Paul and I can do either. Posted by mr_porteiro_head (Member # 4644) on :
You're following us!
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Imagine how I feel. Posted by BandoCommando (Member # 7746) on :
I can do either, as well.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Um, Memorial Day might be a bit much for us-- it's close to my birthday, lots of going on, and the baby will still be a bit young and we'll still be a bit tired.
Posted by Shan (Member # 4550) on :
*bumpage*
Do we have a date?
*wiggles eyebrows enquiringly*
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
oops. Must check ticket prices again and buy one. Thanks for the reminder!
Posted by BandoCommando (Member # 7746) on :
Yes, please. Let me know the date so I can block off the weekend.
Hey, if it's the end of May, all of you can help me move into a new house! Yay for apartment life ending!
Posted by The Genuine (Member # 11446) on :
Really the botanical gardens over the rose/Japanese gardens or Chinese garden?
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Ticket prices are up -- all the really cheap tickets for Memorial weekend are gone (unless I want to miss an extra day of work and return crack-of-dawn Monday). Looking at last weekend in June . . .
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Booked! Arriving late Thursday night June 26, and leaving Sunday night the 29th.
Posted by mr_porteiro_head (Member # 4644) on :
See you then! Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I still need to talk to KPC about this and see if we'll be able and willing to do this...
Posted by Shan (Member # 4550) on :
Cool beans! I have noted the days in my calendar.
Are you still thinking the same hotel, rivka?
Posted by BandoCommando (Member # 7746) on :
Neat. I'll be able to hang out by the evening of the 27th, but not during the day at all. I'm on staff for a leadership camp for metropolitan-area marching band section leaders and drum majors.
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
I'm excited!
I didn't realize that by moving to Oregon I'd be joining such a big clump of Hatrackers! So fun.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by Shan: Are you still thinking the same hotel, rivka?
Yup. Booked my room as part of my Expedia package.
Posted by Shan (Member # 4550) on :
So, the fundraising auction my son's school just had, has 4 OMSI tickets for $32.00 (or MAO).
Should I MAO? Do folks want to go to the museum?
rivka? Is this one of the activities you're interetsed in?
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
We definitely wanted to do OMSI on Friday, neh?
What's the regular admission price?
Posted by BandoCommando (Member # 7746) on :
I won't be able to come Friday :-(
Not that this should deter anyone from visiting OMSI -- I just wish that my wife and I could go with you.
Posted by Shan (Member # 4550) on :
Not sure. It's the same or more, as I recall -- and that was from the last Hatrack visit a few years ago. I'll e-mail the school and see if they still have the tickets, though.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Bando, we'll just have to make sure to do fun stuff the days y'all can come.
Shan, cool.
Posted by Shan (Member # 4550) on :
Okay! I have 4 tickets for OMSI. Unless, Nathan changes his mind and decides not to pal along with his wonderful mom and visit a hotel with a pool (grin), there will be two tickets available to those who need 'em for our field trip.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Awesome! Posted by pooka (Member # 5003) on :
I finally googled OMSI, though when I really thought about it, I had an inkling. OMSI I think I could probably talk my husband into that. What else is planned?
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by rivka: Tentative schedule: Friday - OMSI Saturday - board games at the hotel; possibly trip to farmer's market for those for whom it's not Shabbos Sunday - ? maybe botanical gardens
Powell's was also discussed.
Posted by pooka (Member # 5003) on :
Ooh, board games! Though you'd need to avoid any that involve writing? Like if there's a word game and we want to keep score?
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
It turns out I actually might not be able to make it after all. My family is having a reunion that week in southern Colorado.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by pooka: Though you'd need to avoid any that involve writing? Like if there's a word game and we want to keep score?
Right. But I plan to bring Chrononauts, Fluxx, and Nanofictionary -- no writing with any of those.
hansenj, Posted by Shigosei (Member # 3831) on :
That's funny! My family is also having a reunion in Colorado that week. But my parents apparently aren't going this year, and as much as I like the reunions, I probably won't go this time either, given PortlandCon, the cost of flying, and not having the rest of my immediate family there.
Edit to clarify: Funny that your family is having a reunion in the same state at about the same time. Not funny that you might not be able to come. Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Maybe you two are related. Posted by Shigosei (Member # 3831) on :
That would be quite amusing.
You're not going to the Martin family reunion, are you, hansenj?
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
Ha ha! Nope! It's a small reunion (just my mom's family), so I know all the people that will be there. That would be hilarious, though.
I'm still sad about missing the gathering, though. I was very excited for it!
Posted by Shan (Member # 4550) on :
Checking in . . . still on a go?
Posted by Shigosei (Member # 3831) on :
I'll be there, at least! Glad you can make it Is Nathan coming?
Posted by Shan (Member # 4550) on :
Yay, Shigosei! If nothing else, one or two Nathan pictures will come along for the ride. *grin*
Posted by Sterling (Member # 8096) on :
Hmm... Maybe I could buy people a round of hot chocolate (or coffee or what-have-you) at Powell's? It may be time someone at Hatrack could confirm that I exist. Posted by Shigosei (Member # 3831) on :
Hey, is there anyone who might be able to room with Mr. Funny at the hotel?
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by Shan: Checking in . . . still on a go?
It better be!
Sterling, you're welcome to join us for more than that, if you'd like.
Posted by Shan (Member # 4550) on :
Just making sure . . . *grin*
---------------------
Alrighty then! Reservations completed for the Ramada, Friday June 27 and Saturday June 28.
I am taking Friday off work and plan on driving down in the early a.m. I have 3 extra OMSI tickets -- good for general admission, but not special exhibits -- whatever that means.
Nathan is wanting to stay at home and work on building a tree fort with his dad, so I have carpool room for one (or possibly two, if a petite person doesn't mind being in the back seat of my truck) from the Oly area to Portland, if anyone is coming from the north . . .
[ June 16, 2008, 12:30 AM: Message edited by: Shan ]
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
OMSI has an IMAX or somesuch, neh? I imagine that's the not-included part. Or one of them.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Also, can I assume that someone will be able to give me a ride on Friday to get kosher food, at some point? *puppy eyes*
Posted by Shan (Member # 4550) on :
Well, absolutely, m'dear. I'll happily chauffeur. Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Posted by Narnia (Member # 1071) on :
I'm also in on this, just so everyone knows. I'll definitely be available Saturday and most likely Friday afternoon if not the whole time. Posted by Shan (Member # 4550) on :
Yay! Cecily!
Are we doing OMSI on Friday afternoon, then?
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
I thought the consensus was OMSI in the morning, Powell's in the afternoon, but I'm easy. Posted by Shan (Member # 4550) on :
Works for me. What time do you want me to meet you for food shopping? 8ish AM or between OMSI and Powell's trips? Or . . . ?
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
rivka- You can do things after sunset on Saturday, right? Because I'd really like to be in on the Powell's trip, and I won't get back in town until too late Friday night. I've lived here for more than a month now, and I still haven't made it there! I'm shocked at myself, truly. If that doesn't work out, it's ok. I just wanted to put it out there in case it would work with other people. I don't want to be a nuisance, and really I'll be happy with whatever's going on when I'm back. I know I'll make it to Powell's someday soon.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by Shan: Works for me. What time do you want me to meet you for food shopping? 8ish AM or between OMSI and Powell's trips? Or . . . ?
8am-ish sounds good.
quote:Originally posted by hansenj: rivka- You can do things after sunset on Saturday, right? Because I'd really like to be in on the Powell's trip, and I won't get back in town until too late Friday night.
It's actually not until after dark, which that day means 9:49. Powell's closes at 11 -- that's pretty tight, neh?
We absolutely must get to a TJ's, btw. Shigosei has never been!!!
Posted by The Genuine (Member # 11446) on :
You'll need way more time at Powells.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
So who's interested in checking out the nightlife?
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by The Genuine: You'll need way more time at Powells.
Right, which is why I was thinking Friday.
Also, how long will we need at OMSI?
Posted by Shan (Member # 4550) on :
A late AM trip (after the 8am-ish grocery shopping trip) with brown bag lunch at OMSI, followed up by Powell's around 3 PM? How does that sound?
Is sitting in the sun around the pool allowed for you on Saturday, rivka? (Providing we have any sun, of course . . . *scowl*)
So, who all is going to be along on this shindig?
Roll Call! Count noses!
Posted by The Genuine (Member # 11446) on :
Sorry Rivka, never been to OMSI. Just guessing, it seems like a minimum 3-hour affair, even without Imax, right? The locals seem to make a big deal out of it, anyway.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Shan, who are you? You live in Portland? I live in Lake Oswego.
Posted by Shigosei (Member # 3831) on :
It's possible to spend all day there, really. I'd say three hours would be minimum.
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
Yep, that's too tight. That's ok! I'll make it down there sooner or later (hopefully sooner ).
As for the roll call, my husband and I (and James, of course! ) are available for all of Saturday and limited Sunday activities after about 1:00pm. Are the rose gardens still an option for Sunday afternoon?
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by Shan: A late AM trip (after the 8am-ish grocery shopping trip) with brown bag lunch at OMSI, followed up by Powell's around 3 PM? How does that sound?
Excellent. I'd like to be back at the hotel by about 7 pm, but that should work fine. Yes?
quote:Originally posted by Shan: Is sitting in the sun around the pool allowed for you on Saturday, rivka? (Providing we have any sun, of course . . . *scowl*)
I'm not a big fan of sunbathing. But I am bringing board/card games, and I hope others will too. I will have food for myself for Shabbos (hence the trip Friday), and y'all can go somewhere -- I know Jesse wanted to drag y'all to someplace I can't go, so doing it when I can't go anyway makes sense to me. Or y'all can bring food in, if that works better.
My suggestion for Sunday would be brunch/lunch at the only kosher place in town, followed by the botanical gardens. The Mormons won't be able to do the restaurant (if I understand correctly), but they'll all be at services then anyway. Right?
Corrections, counter-suggestions, etc. are welcomed. Posted by Narnia (Member # 1071) on :
As far as OMSI goes, it's really not that impressive compared to the Seattle Science Center, the Chicago MSI, or any other large city science museum. I was amazed that people thought it was the end all be all. I was raised in Chicago, folks!
That being said, I think we could get through it in two hours. Including IMAX if we decide to. Ok, maybe 3 with the IMAX.
As far as Sundays go, we all probably meet at different times, but if you set a time for the Rose Gardens, I can probably swing it. Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
I believe 1 o'clock was suggested for garden-hopping. It's not too hot then, right? (It would be here. This week, anyway.)
Is there a difference between the Rose Gardens & Botanical Gardens? People have mentioned both -- are they the same thing?
Posted by The Genuine (Member # 11446) on :
quote:Originally posted by rivka: I will have food for myself for Shabbos (hence the trip Friday), and y'all can go somewhere -- I know Jesse wanted to drag y'all to someplace I can't go, so doing it when I can't go anyway makes sense to me.
I did? I don't recall any particular place.
Oh, you mean Ruth's Chris? Yeah, anyway, I think that idea got shot down across the board.
But for nighttimeactivities, Portland has a really vibrant and distintive bar scene. It also has the highest number of strip clubs per capita of any major city. Perhaps we could check some of it out on Saturday?
Posted by BandoCommando (Member # 7746) on :
Well, I'll be able to join everyone at some point, but it sounds as if the fun stuff will be done by that point. <sniffle>
I'm teaching until around 7pm Friday, so I can only hang on Friday evening, Saturday all day, and Sunday all day.
I'm not sure about the botanical gardens, but Portland's Japanese Gardens are amazing to behold! The rose gardens will look pretty this time of year, but it's nothing compared to the JG, in by opinion...
On Saurdays, I enjoy visiting the Saturday Market, then getting lunch there, or at Pioneer Place mall nearby.
The local public transportation (light rail) is free in the downtown area, if you weren't aware.
Posted by BandoCommando (Member # 7746) on :
Oh yeah...
Years ago, I worked at the OMSI science store (gift shop). As an employee, I got free admission to exhibits and movies.
If you ask me, three hours is enough for maybe seeing exhibits, but not for exhibits plus OmnImax. There is also a tour available of a diesel submarine (USS Blueback, sub used in the filming of Hunt for Red October) and a planetarium show. Heck, the gift shop alone used to be worth a good half-hour!
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by The Genuine: But for nighttimeactivities, Portland has a really vibrant and distintive bar scene. It also has the highest number of strip clubs per capita of any major city. Perhaps we could check some of it out on Saturday?
All those who are not fans of bars and strip clubs are welcome to stay at the hotel and play board games with me. Posted by The Genuine (Member # 11446) on :
quote:Originally posted by BandoCommando: I'm not sure about the botanical gardens, but Portland's Japanese Gardens are amazing to behold! The rose gardens will look pretty this time of year, but it's nothing compared to the JG, in by opinion...
I hadn't even heard of the botanical gardens until they were mentioned as part of this Con. But yes, the JG is great. And I'd probably agree about the Rose Gardens, simply because rows and rows of roses kinda all look the same, whereas the JG is quite diverse. The view of the city is better at the RG though.
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
Ooh! I really like the idea of the Japanese gardens! Are they close enough to each other that we could do both on Sunday afternoon? I like that idea, personally. And judging by the weather lately, it will only be in the 70s, which is perfect weather.
I also like the idea of visiting the Saturday Market, and doing lunch there (perfect for Saturday because it's probably not kosher). If I recall, it was mentioned somewhere before. I think we should plan on doing that, and then going back to the hotel to play games with rivka. Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
So, to review, the currently suggested schedule is as follows?
Friday: 8-ish: Kosher food expedition. Shan & Rivka and any hangers-on. 10 (?) -ish: OMSI. 3-ish: Powell's 7-ish: Rivka back at hotel (I'll need some time to finish getting ready for Shabbos, which starts at about 8:45) Friday night: Board games and chatting. Alternatively, I know some people wanted to do nightlife things.
Saturday: Saturday Market w/ lunch for all non-Shabbos observers; board games for everyone. Saturday night: Bars and such for Jesse & co.; board games or ? for the rest of us.
Sunday: 10? 11? Brunch here (Hotel check-out) 1-ish: Japanese Gardens 4-ish: Other gardens 6-ish: Rivka to airport (that should be enough time, neh? At least, if I get a ride with someone rather than depending on the hotel shuttle? My flight is at 8)
The only thing missing from the schedule is TJ's. Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
TJ's? *lost*
I like it.
Paul and I have a few good games to contribute for Saturday. We've got Settlers (with Cities and Knights and 5-6 player expansion), Bang! (with an expansion we haven't tried yet), dominoes, Clue, Rook, Phase 10, and a whole bunch of others. If there are certain other mainstream games (ie Taboo, Monopoly and such) that people are fond of, let us know. We might own it.
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
Oh, and we have a Wii with Mario Kart, Big Brain Academy, Dr. Mario, Wii Sports, Wii Play, and Mario Galaxy...but only two controllers.
Posted by The Genuine (Member # 11446) on :
Trader Joes.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
Wish I could be there! hansenj, I don't know how big a group will be there, but rivka will be unable to do a few of those activities on Shabbos (specifically, Wii anything, and Clue, I believe. Anything that requires use of electricity or writing.) But I'm sure anything you bring will be appreciated.
Posted by hansenj (Member # 4034) on :
I wondered about that. Well, we'll bring it if there's any interest expressed. Otherwise, we'll leave it at home. Posted by Shan (Member # 4550) on :
The Japanese Gardens are delightful! I haven't been to the Rose Gardens, I don't think . . . IMAX will give me motion sickness, so I'm all for a shorter time at OMSI and longer at Powell's. *grin* However, I'll be heading back home about lunchtime on Sunday (long work week ahead), so I'll miss the Sunday fun and games.
I can bring Monopoly, or a cribbage board and cards, if anyone's interested. Also, Nathan and I just picked up the Jamestown Survivor game -- we haven't played it yet -- I could bring that down, too, if y'all want. It doesn't look like it involves any writing. I could also bring Risk, and some brave soul could try to teach me the game. *sigh* That'd make my son happy.
Now, as long as he and his father don't build a treehouse 30 feet off the ground while I'm away . . . *muttering imprecations to self*
Posted by Sterling (Member # 8096) on :
Just so you know: the Japanese gardens are magnificent, but there is an entry fee. However, there is a day pass that can be checked out from some libraries if you have a friend who can arrange to do so. (Would offer, but I've been living across the river for some time now, and my Portland library card is no longer good.)
I understand writing is out, but is playing games that keep track of score some other way (moving a token around the edge of the board on a score track) acceptable?
Posted by pooka (Member # 5003) on :
Such as with Ticket to Ride? Or whatever that train one is called? I'd love to try that one with the scoring some time. The people we played it with once didn't know what the numbers around the outside of the board were. We just tried to tally everything at the end.
Posted by Sterling (Member # 8096) on :
I don't have Ticket to Ride, but that's a good one. A lot of games of German origin seem to have a similar mechanic. I do have "Primordial Soup", though (a.k.a. "Ursuppe"), which also uses said mechanic.
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
I believe it is only games involving actual writing that are out. That includes one person keeping score by writing or taking a tally, but does not include moving a token around a board to keep track of score (AFAIK.)
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
quote:Originally posted by Sterling: is playing games that keep track of score some other way (moving a token around the edge of the board on a score track) acceptable?
As long as that is how the game is always played (and not a for-Shabbos stopgap), it's fine.
Any game I can't play (or don't care to, like Settlers), I can heckle.
I plan to bring Fluxx, Nanofictionary, both versions of Chrononauts, Aquarius, Blink, and (junior) Apples to Apples -- all of which work for Shabbos. I also promised to bring Cranium, and will bring Boggle, which don't (but do for others, or for Saturday night).
Posted by Shigosei (Member # 3831) on :
Shan, do you still have those tickets? Mr. Funny and I haven't bought ours yet, so we can buy them from you if you're still looking to get rid of them.
As amazing as the IMAX theater is, we may want to spend our time doing more interactive stuff. I guess we can decide when we get there.
Posted by Shan (Member # 4550) on :
I do have the tickets! One for me, and three up for grabs.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
I'll happily buy the third one then. Posted by Shan (Member # 4550) on :
Sold!
Posted by BandoCommando (Member # 7746) on :
So...
...this may be a stupid question, but I'm wondering...
How do I find/recognize Hatrack folks at Powell's and/or Saturday Market when it comes time to meet up with you all? Do I walk around carrying a big "Hello, my name is Bando Commando" sign? (even in Portland I might get some odd looks)
Posted by ketchupqueen (Member # 6877) on :
You could post a picture on the picture site so they'll recognize you. You could look up their pictures on the same. You could wear a distinctive outfit (for example, a giant bumblebee costume, though I sincerely doubt it would have to be that extreme) and tell everyone ahead of time what you'll be wearing. You could arrange to meet everyone at an appointed time in an appointed place (for instance "In front of the honey seller's booth", or "by the sign for the Sci-Fi section.")
All things I've done when meeting people I have not met in person in a public place. Posted by Sterling (Member # 8096) on :
quote:Originally posted by BandoCommando: So...
...this may be a stupid question, but I'm wondering...
How do I find/recognize Hatrack folks at Powell's and/or Saturday Market when it comes time to meet up with you all?
They're the incredibly good-looking ones with choirs of angels strewing rose petals at their feet.
Or in my case, crummy posture, glasses, a beard, and probably a blue beret. (That might not be enough to single someone out in Portland, but it's a good start.)
Posted by Narnia (Member # 1071) on :
Where and/or when are folks meeting at Saturday Market? I missed that before and would like to catch up with anyone that takes that option. I'll probably do games with rivka & co. in the afternoon.
Posted by Shan (Member # 4550) on :
Breaking news!!! Nathan figured out that this was a trip for fun (not business) and so, all of you who remember the child that barely reached my shoulder in Portland last time will get to see him nearly as tall as me . . .
I guess OMSI, Powell's, board games and a swimming pool trumps building tree houses . . . *grin*
Rivka -- how do you want to connect on Friday a.m.? I'll e-mail you this week and we can work out details.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Please do. I know I have your email address SOMEWHERE. I figure we'll exchange cell numbers, if that works.
Looking forward to meeting Nathan. Even if that means I'll have to buy my OMSI ticket at the museum. Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Cross-fertilization (because there are now threads on three boards discussing this):
quote:Rivka posted:
Might there be a theater somewhere useful that has a late night showing of WALL-E Saturday night?
quote:MPH posted:
Ooh! That sounds like fun!
quote:Then Rivka realized: Moviefone finds LOTS of 10 PMs (awfully tight), and the only 10:15 is 20 miles away.
Oh, well.
quote:But then Jennie posted:
What if most of the group went early to a 10:00 showing and saved seats? Someone(s) with a car could stay with rivka at the hotel and leave as soon as they can. They'd miss previews (which, admittedly, is pretty tragic), but they'd probably make it for the movie.
*shrug*
Paul and I would volunteer to stay with rivka. It will be hard enough as it is keeping James quiet in the theater (but worth trying for Wall-E ...hopefully he would sleep through the whole thing if it was that late). Minimizing the time we had to be there would be great.
quote:And Rivka responded:
We'd probably miss more than just the previews. But I'm game if you are.
(And actually, depending on the parking situation and the length of the previews, we actually might not.)
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
It might be a good thing for us to all exchange cell numbers, neh?
So, anyone who doesn't mind giving out their cell number to me and other weird internet people, please send an email with "PortlandCon" in the subject. Screenname, real name (as much or as little as you like -- just first name is fine), cell number. I'll stick 'em all in Excel and email out a list to everyone who emailed me. Sound good?
Email: rivkag AT gmail
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
*bump*
Posted by Shan (Member # 4550) on :
Sorry. 13 hour work day yesterday . . . I-emailed you, dear -- I tried both .net and .com, cause I'm not sure of the ending of the email.
Your UCLA alumni address is still listed in the specs here, too, did you know?
*off to work*
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Oops. .com works.
The alum address is a forwarder. It goes there too.
Also, I've done the 13-hour work day before (and probably will again on Monday). Bleh!
Posted by BandoCommando (Member # 7746) on :
Email sent!
Posted by The Genuine (Member # 11446) on :
quote:Originally posted by BandoCommando: So...
...this may be a stupid question, but I'm wondering...
How do I find/recognize Hatrack folks at Powell's and/or Saturday Market when it comes time to meet up with you all? Do I walk around carrying a big "Hello, my name is Bando Commando" sign? (even in Portland I might get some odd looks)
I'll likely be wearing this.
Posted by beverly (Member # 6246) on :
I am going to try to come on Friday, sans children, with Porter. What time should we show up at the OMSI? I will need to get home before it gets too late. I hate to miss out on games, though. Has a rough schedule been drawn up yet?
Posted by mr_porteiro_head (Member # 4644) on :
quote:Originally posted by rivka: So, to review, the currently suggested schedule is as follows?
Friday: 8-ish: Kosher food expedition. Shan & Rivka and any hangers-on. 10 (?) -ish: OMSI. 3-ish: Powell's 7-ish: Rivka back at hotel (I'll need some time to finish getting ready for Shabbos, which starts at about 8:45) Friday night: Board games and chatting. Alternatively, I know some people wanted to do nightlife things.
Saturday: Saturday Market w/ lunch for all non-Shabbos observers; board games for everyone. Saturday night: Bars and such for Jesse & co.; board games or ? for the rest of us.
Sunday: 10? 11? Brunch here (Hotel check-out) 1-ish: Japanese Gardens 4-ish: Other gardens 6-ish: Rivka to airport (that should be enough time, neh? At least, if I get a ride with someone rather than depending on the hotel shuttle? My flight is at 8)
The only thing missing from the schedule is TJ's.
Posted by Shigosei (Member # 3831) on :
Porter, when will you be rejoining the group after church?
Posted by Mr.Funny (Member # 4467) on :
Ok, so, it seems that my rooming situation is a bit up-in-the-air right now. If I'm correct, I'm sharing a room with Porter Friday night, but he's elsewhere for Saturday night? This leaves me without someone to share a room the second night. Shigosei suggested that it might be possible to room with Shan (crash on the floor with a sleeping bag or somesuch). Anyone know of any other possibilities that involve me staying at/near the hotel? I'd like to avoid absorbing the full cost of a night, if possible.
Shan, is that an option that you might consider? (Assuming that you're staying at the same hotel...)
Posted by Sterling (Member # 8096) on :
It's looking like a prior commitment may keep me away Friday (sorry!) but I'm going to try to play some games with people on Saturday.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Emails have been sent. Yelp if you should have gotten one and didn't!
Posted by Shan (Member # 4550) on :
How about just a whimper for if'n the attachment won't open? *grin*
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Silly file. I replied.
Posted by Shan (Member # 4550) on :
Thank you. *meekly* It opened the second time around -- but I can't find the print button on this set-up. I am soooo old . . . I swear! I'll just write 'em down on scrap paper. *grin*
***************
Ooohh -- can I add no texting to mine, too, please. Thanks!
***************
A-ha! I found the print button.
*grumble*
I like the old version better . . .
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Ok, no need to resend the spreadsheet, check.
Hopefully the texters will refrain from texting the rest of us. As I pointed out on sake, some of us get charged $.10-.20 per text.
Posted by Shan (Member # 4550) on :
Cool. Thanks, rivka! Texting does cost a pretty penny . . . and my thumbs are non-functional in the txt world.
RE: Shigosei and Mr. Funny -- would you both like to room with Nathan and me Saturday? I can upgrade the room, I'm sure.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
I am all checked in. Shan & Porter (and anyone else who will be staying at the hotel), please call me if you're still up. They told me the best way to try to get y'all rooms near mine is if I give you my room number and you call and request nearby rooms.
Posted by Mr.Funny (Member # 4467) on :
I'll be wearing a +20 shirt of smiting and/or a USC sweatshirt (depending on weather - though, given the heat forecast, probably just the shirt of smiting).
I'll be with Shigosei, who has very long hair.
Rivka - I'll check and see if Shigosei is still awake, as she's the one who booked the room that Porter and I are sharing tomorrow night.
[edit: never mind, she says that Porter's working on it]
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Yeah, I spoke with him earlier. Posted by Shigosei (Member # 3831) on :
And of course, I have a room close to yours. So to speak.
Posted by BandoCommando (Member # 7746) on :
I don't know if anyone at PortlandCon is still checking the forum, but I'm planning on being at Saturday Market around 11am. I'll be wearing a green shirt that says "Oregon Marching Band" in yellow with a Nike swoosh on the front.
I will also have my phone on me.
I spoke with The Genuine, and I think he'll be there around the same time.
Posted by The Genuine (Member # 11446) on :
Yep, seems like 11 at the Saturday Market is kinda the plan.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
At PDX, and my flight was delayed 50 minutes. Hurray for free wifi, and free outlets, and comfy chairs to take advantage of both!
If yesterday was the Day of Too Many Freakin' People, today was the Day of Small, Quiet Groups. Brunch with Mr. Funny and Shigosei (which was quite nice), and the Japanese Gardens with Jennie and Paul (with brief appearances by Mr. Funny, Shigosei, mph, Bando & spouse). The gardens are really lovely. I think it was Narnia who suggested them? Great idea!
Then Jennie and Paul took me to their place for my very first time playing with a Wii, and then to the airport.
Thanks to all of you (except Zotto! who has now proven that he hates me ). I had a great weekend! Posted by mr_porteiro_head (Member # 4644) on :
Bando, it was so much fun getting to see you and your wife! I didn't realize how much I had missed talking to band geeks.
Posted by Shan (Member # 4550) on :
Nathan wanted me to say how much fun he had, and he wants to do it again! He loved hanging out and playing games with everyone.
It was great to see folks and chat and munch on snacks and visit the cool Portland sites -- some of them with very scenic routes to and from, indeed!
Sorry we missed brunch, rivka -- an old college friend and his family called to invite Nathan and me over for a late breakfast of homemade waffles and fresh strawberries, and we just couldn't pass that up!
Anyway -- it was a relaxing and fun weekend -- and very needed. I'm glad I got to spend it with lots of fun folk, and to spend some quality time with my son. It's nice to know that I haven't been relegated to the land of uncool parents entirely. Posted by Zotto! (Member # 4689) on :
Hey now! There was no hating of the rivka happening! There was a lot of oversleeping, not-having-anyone's-number-besides-Cecily-who-I-tried-but-she-didn't-pick-up -ing, and wandering-around-blindly-in-the-Rose-Gardens-which-is-what-I-assumed-was-meant-on-the-itinerary-but-maybe-it-actually-meant-different-gardens-somewhere-faraway -ing. I'm sorry I missed you, rivka! Mutual ing will be heard across the land.
My consolation is that meeting the people I did get to meet was very fun, as was seeing a few of the oldbies again. Posted by Sterling (Member # 8096) on :
It was very good getting to meet all of you. Hatrackers are indeed brilliant and fantastically good looking.
(Well, okay, perhaps I exaggerate the latter. Slightly.)
Posted by BandoCommando (Member # 7746) on :
I had a great time! Thanks for getting this all started Rivka! It was awesome to spend some time IRL with all of these faceless names I see on Hatrack every time I log on.
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Zotto!, the requirements for your penance have been spelled out on sake. Because I saw your post there first.
I enjoyed meeting and spending time with the rest of y'all. And Sterling and Bando, as an extra bonus, you are now both Real™!
Posted by Sterling (Member # 8096) on :
quote:Originally posted by rivka: Zotto!, the requirements for your penance have been spelled out on sake. Because I saw your post there first.
I enjoyed meeting and spending time with the rest of y'all. And Sterling and Bando, as an extra bonus, you are now both Real™!
Thank heaven! Does that mean I can finally get rid of that stupid nagging cricket?
Posted by rivka (Member # 4859) on :
Well, sure. Stick him in a cage -- I bet he'd make a great pet for your daughter.
Posted by The Genuine (Member # 11446) on :
![[Wink]](wink.gif)
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Must check ticket prices again and buy one. Thanks for the reminder!
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So fun.
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My family is having a reunion that week in southern Colorado.
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). I had a great weekend!