I suggest not parsing this to death. The location should be first, easily accessible from a major airport, and second close to a concentration of Mudcatters. Easily as important is that the facility must be comfortable, reasonably priced, and have spaces for people to break out to. Don't let distance for anyone person hold up the gathering. I drove 13 hours each way for the Getaway for five years. The gathering was so good, that I was willing to make the trek. KT and Ebbie flew from Alaska to the east coast. The Shellbacks and Brits came from Great Britain. Folks came from all over the country. It is about planning a great event, making it as accessible and comfortable as possible. Seems to me a Camp Harmony type surrounding is what you are after as it has the facilities. Doesn't have to be that one, but should be like that one.

I would suggest that you create a cyber committee of folks that are committed to making this happen and committed to attending. Let them make the decisions in committee, and then stick with it. Everyone can submit their suggestions to them. Suggestions shouldn't be for some general geographic area, but rather specific facilities. Then you can get past the "chewing the fat" stage and move to specifics that will let people make a decision as to attendance.

Mick