Hi Taylor,

Was done frequently in 2002 encompassing independents and agencies from both the net and private lists. They were fun parties and it was nice to meet new providers and hobbyists as well as see old friends. Last year however there began to be different opinion as to who should go, whether to post public announcements or not, and if these parties were an LE concern or not (even though these were meet-n-greet events only).

Eventually the agencies opted for more private gatherings for their clients only, the independents seemed to lose interest, and parties seemed to splinter into smaller groups. Of course Sheriff Joes activities last year did not help foster an atmosphere that made folks want to gather publicly either

I do have nice memories of those parties though. We raised quite a bit of money for local charities with them as well.

Glen

There are a few groups that have events around the country. They can be amazing as you said. I have been fortunate to have been involved in a few

A public party has inherent security risks. However, a Private part can be more expensive. A private party may draw a different crowd then a public party. Private parties of 200 are not uncommon (as opposed to what I would call "get togethers" of 40 or less). So you can get a good turnout. And accomplish the advertising goals.

There were some challenges here as Glen pointed out (having also gone to those). The "vibe" in Phoenix has been wrong and can be fixed, through cooperation. Safety for all. Less BS. Ladies supporting each other and not being "catty". Guys helping with references. And the scene could then support a great community as you saw in Denver and as happens in Chicago, Dallas, Philadelphia, etc...

Would love to chat more. Share what I have learned. But "not in public".

If you can get my e-mail addy from here, drop me a note...

Wanderer

Can I get an invite to this fabulous (potential) party? EOM

-- Modified on 9/2/2004 11:27:47 PM