To Thread - Forum Home

The Mudcat Café TM
https://mudcat.org/thread.cfm?threadid=95306
199 messages

Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?

06 Oct 06 - 05:17 PM (#1852279)
Subject: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: JenEllen

Anyone interested? Where is a good place to meet, and what time of year would work best for all?

I can travel anywhere fairly easily--summer is best for me.


06 Oct 06 - 05:21 PM (#1852281)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Rapparee

How about Pocatello, Idaho? That way I wouldn't have to travel very far (not all, in fact).

I'm semi-serious about this, too. There's a pretty decent music scene there and great scenery. Spring, summer and fall are all pretty nice, and even Winter is bearable.

Massacre Rocks State Park or Lava Hot Springs are both other possibilities. So is Ft. Bridger, Wyoming. I'd skip Jackson Hole, WY and Moab, UT, since they both already have music festivals.


06 Oct 06 - 05:46 PM (#1852293)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Sorcha

Hmmmmm. Must consider this.


06 Oct 06 - 05:49 PM (#1852297)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: GUEST

Ah! How about Seattle?


06 Oct 06 - 06:18 PM (#1852319)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Amos

There are some beautiful sites in the Portland area and in Wyoming that mebbe we could lease up, depending on how many we could muster. I yam in for it. And I come from the bottom corner!!! Western Runamuck rides again. Yeeehaw!

A


06 Oct 06 - 06:34 PM (#1852337)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Midchuck

Do mid-summer. Please. We could work it into our summer trip.

Peter.


06 Oct 06 - 06:35 PM (#1852339)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: artbrooks

Albuquerque? Park City? Eastern Slope Colorado? Central part of the west would be good...Seattle is kinda in the corner. Time...late-ish Spring, I think.


06 Oct 06 - 06:49 PM (#1852344)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: open mike

sunny camp and rainy camp are in the portland area.
they happen annually. ask mary garvey....the october one just happened.

I always host a folk music camp out on the first weekend in June.
I usually post invites and info in april and may...leading up to it.

it is held in a beautiful serene secluded rustic campground about
100 miles north of Sacramento in the foothils of the Sierras.

the next one will be the 7th annual...


y'all come, ya hear?


06 Oct 06 - 06:52 PM (#1852347)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: open mike

oh yeah, that is in northern california--for camp Hoot "N" Holler...

we do have a hot springs in the area...and lassen nat'l park and

breweries and wineries....and other less rustic campgrounds near by..


06 Oct 06 - 06:54 PM (#1852348)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Desert Dancer

I agree with Art, if you're doing western corners, Seattle and Portland are the wrong ones. ;-) Something more central west would be nice -- getting to Seattle from here is like going to the east coast.

~ Becky in Tucson


06 Oct 06 - 06:55 PM (#1852349)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Deckman

Ya know ... I would be very interested in attending, and helping, with this! Bob(deckman)Nelson


06 Oct 06 - 07:01 PM (#1852356)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Amos

Let's scout around for nice sites and see if we can come up with something that would be a Strange Attractor to all corners of the West.

Jen will be back after the weekend, she tells me. Here are two she found as just possibilities:

http://www.breitenbush.com/

http://www.cowcabins.com/

Both gorgeous places. Candidates?

A


06 Oct 06 - 07:38 PM (#1852375)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Deckman

I would be seriously interested in a MC gathering, next summer, on the West coast of America, anywhere from Portland Oregon to the North. Bob


06 Oct 06 - 08:41 PM (#1852408)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Amos

Bob:

Hell we should throw one jes' for that reason alone!

A


06 Oct 06 - 08:43 PM (#1852410)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Deckman

Sounds good to me. I'll bet that you and I can trade a good song ... or two! Bob


06 Oct 06 - 08:50 PM (#1852412)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: katlaughing

Western slope of Colorado, even southwestern CO might be good, Four Corners area; also parts of Nevada,ner Mesquite (maybe) heck we're only a few hours from *gasp* Vegas! If you do WY, esp. Bridger-Teton, it'd have to be mid-summer for easy-weather access.:-) Idaho hight be a fairly half-way point for many of us, from west coast to mid-Rockies. I'll have to think on it some more. For me, it would depend on whether Rog could take the time off, too.


06 Oct 06 - 09:09 PM (#1852423)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Rapparee

Evanston, WY. Vernal, UT. Cody, WY. Cortez, CO. Monticello, UT. Salmon, ID. Butte, MT.

And don't forget the border area of Alberta....

Ft. Bridger, Wyoming might be a danged fine place for it, especially in the Spring.


06 Oct 06 - 09:27 PM (#1852433)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Deckman

If salt water doesn't lick it's shores ... it's NOT the west coast! Bob


06 Oct 06 - 10:55 PM (#1852468)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: mg

You know, Vegas and Reno have highly subsidized flights so it is cheap to get there. Also, Sacramento California always seems to have cheap SW flights. I think Reno would be fascinating. mg


06 Oct 06 - 11:48 PM (#1852489)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: GUEST,KT

I like the Seeattle idea. For those who would have to fly, it'a a major hub and that would eliminate having to take a second flight! But Sacramento or Portland could work, too. By the way, are there any Sacramento mudcatters? I know Joe is pretty close....any others?
Great idea, JenEllen!

KT


07 Oct 06 - 12:10 AM (#1852493)
Subject: Whatever this is about....
From: Rapparee

Gee, Bob. I didn't know Salt Lake City was on the West Coast! 8-)

Reno could be good. Where the Walker runs down to the Carson Valley plain....

Or Carson City. Or even Virginia City (either MT or NV).

How about Flagstaff, AZ? Or Window Rock, NM? Or Tuba City (a town with a musical connotation!!)?

The problem with big cities is that they are generally expensive. And SLC wouldn't do for this bunch. But there are other places, close to major cities, that might work:

Salem or Eugene, OR
Logan, UT
Evanston, WY
Bozeman, MT
Pocatello, ID
Redding, CA
Spokane, WA
Grand Junction, CO
Cortez, CO

and many more.

Any town with a university will most likely have decent transportation to it. And you could most likely get a bunch of deals from the local Convention & Visitors Bureau, too.


07 Oct 06 - 12:14 AM (#1852495)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: katlaughing

Well of course, I am going to vote for Grand Junction, then ya'll can come over to my house and help landscape the backyard.**bg**

I wouldn't vote for Evanston, WY. Fort Bridger might be nice, but only in the LATE spring or summer. You can get some mighty snowstorms up there in May, even June, sometimes.

I don't know if Vernal, Utah is ready for a Mudcat Gathering, but I'll bet my dad would be smiling if it happened, just wishing he was still there to meet all of you.


07 Oct 06 - 12:46 AM (#1852504)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Rapparee

Green River, UT or WY. You ain't seen nothin' 'til you see the Red Lands, the Book Cliffs, The Needles, Flaming Geor...er, Gorge...and all the rest of that part of the US!


07 Oct 06 - 10:11 AM (#1852722)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: katlaughing

Hey! We got the Bookcliffs ryetcheer in Coluhraduh!:-)AND, the Grand Mesa AND the National Monumnet all them dine-oh-sore bones, too. Maybe they'd let us blow on a few on them suckers...great hollow head cavities make wunnerful noises.


07 Oct 06 - 11:10 AM (#1852752)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Amos

Why, we got dozens o' threads to prove that point, too, Miss Kat!!!


A


07 Oct 06 - 11:10 AM (#1852753)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Sorcha

I can't get to California, CO would be easy, Pocotello or NM maybe do able.


07 Oct 06 - 01:07 PM (#1852816)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Dave Swan

Oh, hell yes. New Mexico sounds good to me, but I'll go anywhere.

D


07 Oct 06 - 01:27 PM (#1852830)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Amos

I yam sure there's loverly country around Santa Fe and the Sangre de Cristo hills. No salt water, though!

A


07 Oct 06 - 01:30 PM (#1852831)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: pdq

If Vacouver BC and Dallas Texas are both considered part of The West, then the geographic center is fairly close to Salt Lake City, Utah. Actually closer to Vernal. Hey, great idea, Vernal, since so may folksingers are fossils and dinosaurs already.


07 Oct 06 - 05:18 PM (#1852954)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: dick greenhaus

Based on many years of experience, I'd stronly urge that whatever it is be handled like the Getaway: opening up an existing gathering to Mudcatters. Otherwise, the problems of setting up an infrastructure at a distance are apt to be insurmountable. Also--while I don't mind camping (even primitive camping) it should nbe noted that Mudcatters seem to fall into the graying portion of the population, and may hesitate to take even temporary lodging on de col' col' ground.


07 Oct 06 - 05:32 PM (#1852961)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Deckman

To Rapaire ... You nailed me on that one ... about the Great Salt Lake! (ouch .... oooooh ..... the pain)! Bob


07 Oct 06 - 06:14 PM (#1852983)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Rapparee

That'll lairn ya, pardner. Thank goodness I'm back from SLC!

Vernal'd be a good choice, really would be. Or just across the line in Colorado (the line isn't all that far from Vernal). Vernal info. Some more.

Might be possible to contact the Convention and Visitors' Bureau and/or the Chamber of Commerce and see what sort of deals could be made.


07 Oct 06 - 07:01 PM (#1853012)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Ebbie

It's been a long time since I have driven in Breitenbush country but it is beautiful. On the western slope of the Cascade mountains on a narrow but serviceable road. Breitenbush started out as a fairly unimproved hot springs destination then closed down for some time. Before I left Oregon in 1988 it had opened again and had become a commercial enterprise. You can access the location from several directions.

(Hey, if you can make it to Pocotello you can make it to Oregon!)


07 Oct 06 - 07:09 PM (#1853019)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: GUEST,kt

And if we're REALLY talking about coast, Oregon's is fabulous!


07 Oct 06 - 07:25 PM (#1853026)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Sorcha

SLC or Vernal is do able..and it's not so much the camping per se as it is hauling all the stuff to do it.....we could maybe rent a 'cheap' hall? Or a meeting room in a motel? With a cafe on site?


07 Oct 06 - 08:32 PM (#1853060)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Ebbie

And Oregon doesn't have sales taxes. :)


08 Oct 06 - 05:06 PM (#1853488)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Rapparee

Hey! Get this back up there were it belongs!


08 Oct 06 - 05:41 PM (#1853517)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Ebbie

Thanks, Rap. Let's not let this disappear until more information is exchanged.


08 Oct 06 - 06:28 PM (#1853559)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: katlaughing

Going by what Dick Greenhaus said, there are a ton of festivals throughout Colorado: This year's Listings, but, again, I would avoid the eastern slope like the plague! A lot of these are not neccessarily oging to be like the Getaway, though, as they are more commericial, open to the general public for entertainment, and fairly expensive and nt all have on-site accomodations. Keep in mind, too, that mid-summer can be very hot, esp. in Grd. Jct. and Vernal.

How many folks are we talking? I have a backyard that goes back 150 feet by 80 feet. It'd have to be cleaned up beforehand, but several tents could be pitched, but we only have one bathroom and kitchen. There is a nice RV park just across the highway from us: RVRanch. There are several other places on the Western Slope which might be suitable. I'll do some more checking if you all want. Can also check with Chamber of Commerces, etc. The Paonia area would be neat, as well as Gunnison, etc. though probably more expensive.

Also know a lot about Vernal. That's where we used to go visit my dad. Remember it is NOT close to anything, really, other than another small town, Roosevelt, and the dinosaurs, etc.

Will post more, later.

kat


08 Oct 06 - 07:48 PM (#1853613)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Rapparee

I've got 3 full bathrooms and a half-bath (no bathing facilities) and a back yard that's about 50 x 100 feet. I've also got 2.5 kitchens, a deck, a patio, and space to sleep about 10 or 15 people in sleeping bags, on the floor. There's a pad for an RV (sorry, just one) and there's a KOA about a mile up the road. Within a mile are six or seven motels: Red Lion, Holiday Inn, Best Western, Ameritel, Super 8, Comfort Inn and there might be another one I'm forgetting. Within three or four miles are Ramada Inn, Motel 6, Econolodge, and bunch more (this is a university town).

Yes, there is an airport with commercial air service, and we're at the junction of I-15 and I-86. The Union Pacific RR yards are also large and you could ride the rods into town.

While my neighbors would certainly object to wild and salacious goings-on until all hours, it wouldn't be difficult or expensive to get a shelter at one of the city parks (but no beer then!) or...hmmm...lemme think...camping...would need portapotties...

But there's this which in addition to being close the hospitals (there's that "graying" thing again!) and civilization, is also close to this and, of course,
this (pull the second handle).


08 Oct 06 - 07:53 PM (#1853620)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: pdq

Gunnison, CO, is extremely high elevation. One of the highest towns in the US. The lack of oxygen in the air is quite dangerous for older people or those with poor circulation.


08 Oct 06 - 09:22 PM (#1853675)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: katlaughing

Yep, it is high in elevation. A while back that would have been a major problem for me. Guess I am getting so healthy I forgot:-). Good point, pdq.

Rapaire, sounds great!!


08 Oct 06 - 09:29 PM (#1853681)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: GUEST

Pick a place, and them what goes, goes--and them what don't,
don't.


08 Oct 06 - 10:45 PM (#1853706)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Joe Offer

Well, we could meet at San Francisco's Camp Harmony, Wednesday December 27th, 2006 - Monday January 1st, 2007. We've gathered at the Getaway on the East Coast for a number of years (since 1999), and that has worked out very well. Some of us are already going to Harmony, and there's plenty of space.
What think ye?
-Joe-


09 Oct 06 - 12:35 AM (#1853747)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Amos

Some very fine ideas afloat here. Mebbe we can arrive at some consensus in the upcoming week, assuming Jen shows up to chime in, as the Starter of Ye Threade.

I'd love to see Bob Deckman show up wherever we go!


A


09 Oct 06 - 12:43 AM (#1853753)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: katlaughing

Kinda short notice, Joe, but that sure looks neat!


09 Oct 06 - 12:48 AM (#1853756)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Joe Offer

Well....almost three months, Kat. Mind you, it is a bit expensive - $325 if you register by Nov 1, and $410 thereafter.
I get to go free, since I'm King of the Mop (chief of kitchen cleanup, with takes 5 hours a day - all campers have to work 1 hour a day).
-Joe-


09 Oct 06 - 01:10 AM (#1853763)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Mudjack

Will have to stay on top of this one, sounds like it will realy happen. The when is my priority, the where is what I'm looking forward to. Open Mike's 100 miles north of Sac-Cal sounds good. Oh heck, they all sound good.
Mudjack


09 Oct 06 - 03:26 AM (#1853810)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Peter Kasin

I'm with Dick Greenhaus on choosing a place in or around an existing festival. I'll put a vote in for the Northwest Folklife Festival, but I'd suggest starting a day or two before the festival begins, so we can meet up without getting lost in the larger fest. That way, there's time to have our gathering, then enjoy this incredible festival in Seattle. It happens in late May.

Chanteyranger


09 Oct 06 - 09:19 AM (#1854018)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Rapparee

January's out for me. Spring would be much better.


09 Oct 06 - 09:34 AM (#1854024)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Sorcha

Jan is out for me....spring or summer. But, someobody just needs to make an Executive Decison.


09 Oct 06 - 10:00 AM (#1854051)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Fortunato

good idea, this. I'd be interested in coming
chance


09 Oct 06 - 11:44 AM (#1854141)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: JenEllen

Summer please! Then I can be sure to get time off from the school. Breitenbush is nice, and it is geothermically heated for old bones *bg*. I have a camper and don't mind the drive, so the 'where' really isn't a problem for me.

Also, I was thinking 'western' like this side of the Rockies. Any ideas on how to vote for place?

~J


09 Oct 06 - 11:58 AM (#1854156)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Midchuck

What JenEllen said. A lot of us can only get away longer than a weekend when school is out.

And I personally would be a lot more interested in the Rockies than the West Coast. I like Idaho/Montana/Wyoming/Utah.

I'm dubious about trying to work it inside of an existing festival. I think we'd have trouble making connections. A lot of 'catters go to Old Songs every year, and never get together.

Just one opinion, of course.

Peter.


09 Oct 06 - 03:00 PM (#1854279)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: katlaughing

Maybe we could start out with votes on general location, i.e. Western Rockies, West Coast, Southwest?

Fortunato, that is so kewl that you'd think of coming all this way! everyone else, too!

Summer seems to be the best time for several folks and would be fine for us, too.


09 Oct 06 - 03:44 PM (#1854306)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Rapparee

'Nother thing: when it's snowtime in the Rockies it can get mighty damned cold, mighty damned snowy, and just generally unpleasant (depending where you are). Snowslides closed I-70 last year, remember? And the Donner and other Passes can be downright iffy.

So: late Spring or early Summer on the Western slope?


09 Oct 06 - 03:51 PM (#1854315)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Sorcha

West slope or Southwest. Dont care. Summer because of the weather.


09 Oct 06 - 03:58 PM (#1854325)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: ClaireBear

Southwest (ideally four corners New Mexico) and early summer would be my favorite choices.


09 Oct 06 - 04:21 PM (#1854341)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Mudjack

I say it is up to the person organizing, Both time and place. Since that person will have the task of doing most of the work, the where and when should be their decision. I am asuming Jen Ellen is our front most volunteer. If that is the case, Then Jen Ellen can count on me for any assistance I can offer. I am at your service, you know how to contact me. After all the planning and time to happen, those who can go will go regardless of where and when. Trying to satify 50 folks might require some 50 places and 50 dates. I'll help with your plans the best I can and might even have to pass on the event for other commitments. Thats how it goes.
Mudjack


09 Oct 06 - 04:34 PM (#1854352)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Rapparee

Okay! I drew a line on a map from about San Diego (Amos) to about Torrington, WY (Sorcha). I then divided it in half and measured SE from Seattle, NW from Albuquerque, sort of W from Torrington, and sort of E from Sacramento.

This gave me a box of about 250 square miles on the Idaho/Nevada border, just West of where Idaho, Utah, and Nevada meet.

Now, things like shade and water can be sort of scarce in that region and I for one would prefer not to die of sunstroke. So I looked around the general area and came up with a town that's used to festivals (they host at least one every January) and could accomodate a few oddball types.

And folks, here it is!

(Fooled ya! You thought it would be someplace like Franklin, Idaho!)


09 Oct 06 - 05:07 PM (#1854388)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Sorcha

Elko sounds good!


09 Oct 06 - 05:25 PM (#1854410)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: GUEST

Garg said he's going. If he firms that up, I hope someone posts it here. I have a serious desire to make his acquaintance.


09 Oct 06 - 06:44 PM (#1854487)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: JenEllen

Elko sounds fair enough. Now how about the 'when'? *bg*


09 Oct 06 - 06:46 PM (#1854491)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Rapparee

Well, as much fun as it might be, during the Cowboy Poetry Festival it would probably be really hard to get rooms...or anything else, for that matter.


09 Oct 06 - 07:04 PM (#1854504)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: JenEllen

Just dropped a line to the toursim dept at Elko. Maybe they can help us with some idea as to 'where' locally. We'll see.
Mudjack, you make my day. It was just an idea, but if I have to herd earthworms I'm glad for the support!
~J


09 Oct 06 - 07:13 PM (#1854509)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Amos

Here's one option for lodging 'round there about 20 minutes outside of town. They say they can accomodate ten, but that might mean twenty who were good friends.

A


09 Oct 06 - 07:18 PM (#1854514)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Rapparee

Just spoke with the folks at the Western Folklife Center in Elko. Yes, they rent the joint and it's being renovated. They have a BIG performance hall and a smaller, more intimate, bar (can't bring your own beer though).

We discussed early June, late May as possibilities. They do get weddings on the weekends.

Lots of folks there appreciate cowboy/folk music, too.


09 Oct 06 - 07:29 PM (#1854524)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Amos

Well, can we sleep in it?

Or would we have to stagger down the road at 4 AM to a motel or sompn?


A


09 Oct 06 - 08:00 PM (#1854543)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: GUEST, Eb

Has anyone got experience with The Bishops Ranch in Healdsburg California? It's in Sonoma wine country. I'm told it's gorgeous, alcohol is OK, good lodgings, good food, etc...


10 Oct 06 - 02:00 AM (#1854639)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Joe Offer

Well, Elko is 288 miles from Reno, or about 388 miles from me. I guess I could drive it - reluctantly. I'd say it's well-nigh impossible for people to fly there. Healdsburg is not an unreasonable distance from the airports at San Francisco, Oakland, and Sacramento. Our larger West Coast concentrations of Mudcatters are Seattle and San Francisco - the rest of us are scattered.

-Joe-


10 Oct 06 - 03:20 AM (#1854668)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Barry Finn

Then why not some place tween Seattle & San Francisco & maybe inland from there to accommodate those who are futher from the water & closed to the divide? I'm not going, way to far but I though I might add 1 cent worth. Good Luck

Barry


10 Oct 06 - 05:21 AM (#1854711)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Amergin

Can always do it during tumbleweed in Tri Cities. It is Labour day weekend.


10 Oct 06 - 06:02 AM (#1854738)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Deckman

I'm hanging in here with this one folks. I'm still working and run a business as a deck builder. That's why people call me "THE DECKMAN.! (good business ... decks).

If we're talking about NEXT year, and if plans develope to somewhere that "bride Judy" and I can drive to, this is a definate option for us. Bob


10 Oct 06 - 09:35 AM (#1854847)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: katlaughing

*Thinking out loud, here*

Elko's about eight hours from us. It sounds good, but I don't know if we could manage it. Depends on Rog and time off from work. Are we talking just over a weekend, longer, or during the week? If it's weekend only then I don't see us driving that much distance. Will check the airlines and see how much. I DO know Vegas is not that far of a drive and there is also daily shuttle air from here to there, BUT Vegas is NOT my idea of a fun place to go to!**bg**


10 Oct 06 - 10:14 AM (#1854863)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Sorcha

Tell me where and when, and I'll tell you yes or no. I/we will be driving if we attend.


10 Oct 06 - 11:13 AM (#1854890)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Fortunato

Joe, Calmp Harmony looks good, but we have a gathering of the clan at our house in Asheville through the holidays.

see ya somewhere,
chance


10 Oct 06 - 11:18 AM (#1854894)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: SINSULL

I wish...


10 Oct 06 - 12:13 PM (#1854948)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Dave Swan

Eb asks about Bishop's Ranch in Healdsburgh. I atayed there for a function of the San Francisco Scottish Fiddlers and very much enjoyed the rooms, food and locale. I don't know what financial arrangements are like, or how far into the future they're booked, but I'll sniff around.


10 Oct 06 - 12:42 PM (#1854971)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Rapparee

I really don't want this to become known as a California/Oregon/Washington only event. I think that at least in the beginning it should be held elsewhere -- not to knock those states, Lord no!, but there is far more to the Western US than the four states bordering the Pacific coast.


10 Oct 06 - 12:57 PM (#1854988)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Joe Offer

Well, I think you'll find it's cheaper to get to the Pacific states, than it is to get to the Rockies. I've paid over $700 for some flights to Denver and Idaho, as opposed to $300 to fly from California to Baltimore. For flying, distance isn't the main factor in determining price. Cities served by Southwest Airlines and the other discount carriers, are usually the cheapest. For some reason (probably the executives at United Airlines), Denver airfares can be outrageous. I can fly through Denver to the East Coast for $300, but $700 to fly to Denver.
-Joe in the Sacramento area-


10 Oct 06 - 12:59 PM (#1854991)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Sorcha

Exactly, Joe...and I can't possibly fly anywhere cause it has to be out of Denver. I'm driving, and I can't drive to CA


10 Oct 06 - 01:17 PM (#1855012)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Bert

So far we have around a couple of dozen people on this thread. If we don't get a lot more definite interest then I'd be inclined to go with katlaughing's back yard.

It won't hurt to start small, and as things build up over the years we can move to a bigger place.


10 Oct 06 - 01:18 PM (#1855013)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: katlaughing

Either way, flying is too costly for us. CA or NV, both would be around $4-500 each, unless I got some last minute thing. Regardless we'd ahev to go through SLC.

We'd need to drive. There have been some small ones on the west coast. I'd really love to see something in the Rockies, but there ought to be a compromise so that most folks feel it is doable, imo.


10 Oct 06 - 01:24 PM (#1855018)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: katlaughing

Cross-posted, Bert. LOL...okay, but if you know who digs a latrine, I say we put him in it!

Seriously, there are other places around here besides my backyard that would be much better and, I think, reasonable.:-)


10 Oct 06 - 01:36 PM (#1855030)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Rapparee

Well, the mountain ben held rondys in "Holes" -- like Jackson Hole or Pierre's Hole. I really don't think we should call this "The Rondy at Kat's Hole" though.


10 Oct 06 - 01:40 PM (#1855036)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Ebbie

I've lived at sea level most of my life. When I was younger - and much fitter - I hiked in an area that was 8400 feet above sea level. I could scarcely take more than 6 steps before I had to stop, all out of breath.

I have no doubt that nowadays I would react even more severely.


10 Oct 06 - 01:41 PM (#1855037)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: katlaughing

LOL, what's a "mountain Ben?" LOL!!


10 Oct 06 - 02:19 PM (#1855077)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Sorcha

And WHO wants to pay 'Hole PRICES????? NOT ME!


10 Oct 06 - 03:04 PM (#1855107)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Rapparee

Mountain Ben was Gentle Ben's nasty, evil, vile twin brother.

Sorcha, if we did this right we could get it hole-sale.


10 Oct 06 - 03:11 PM (#1855116)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Bert

There's a songwriter here in Colorado Springs who owns a motel. He's always fully booked throughout the tourist season but we might be able to persuade him to open up for an off season weekend.

What do you think?


10 Oct 06 - 03:31 PM (#1855152)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: JenEllen

The travel's not a problem for me. Y'all decide what works for the best and I'll be there. *bg*


10 Oct 06 - 04:24 PM (#1855225)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Sorcha

Depends, Bert.....find out/post more.


10 Oct 06 - 04:57 PM (#1855255)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: katlaughing

No offence, Bertdarlin'...typical western slope attitude, I know, but when I hear eastern slope it makes me *groan*:-)


10 Oct 06 - 06:29 PM (#1855314)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Alaska Mike

How about Soldotna, Alaska in June. The salmon are running fierce in the rivers, the temperatures are in the mid 70's and the sun shines 'til midnight. Come on up.

Mike


10 Oct 06 - 07:43 PM (#1855376)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Bert

Why's that katmeluv? I know The Springs is a tourist town but it's not THAT bad.

Maybe though, there's a motel in your area that might work.


10 Oct 06 - 07:51 PM (#1855380)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: GUEST,mg

I would think you would want things easy to fly to otherwise not many people could make it. I still think everyone should check out prices to Reno from where they are. How far to Elko? Don't know. Reno is a very historical place, home of many Basque traditions. I have never been there but would like to go. There are old ghost towns I think around there, and of course Lake Tahoe is not too far. Compare prices to say Sacramento, which is cheap, Denver, which might be...and add taxi or bus far to wherever the event is. I could probably make it to Reno, Las Vegas or Sacramento. Maybe not much else. But I agree that out of WA/OR/CA might be nice for some. Albuqueque? I think SW flies there. Very very hot for some though. Santa Fe is great but takes some getting there. mg


10 Oct 06 - 08:08 PM (#1855391)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Genie

SunnyCamp is only slightly closer to PDX than to Seattle, and Rainycamp is in the Seattle area.
None of them are geared primarily to Mudcatters, although some area Mudcatters do attend.

I would vote for Portland over Seattle, not just because I live there (which is irrelevant half the time anyway) but because it's more centrally located.   But I can certainly understand the attraction of the Sacramento or Bay Area location as being probably the most central on the west coast.   Not horribly far from the Pac NW or SoCal or from the Tahoe area or Idaho or even Denver.

I guess a lot depends on the sites available and their costs.   There was a great B&B in eastern WA called "JenEllen's" where we had the 2002 Mudcat Gathering, but I don't know if they're still in business. ;)


10 Oct 06 - 08:13 PM (#1855394)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Genie

Breitenbush is, indeed, gorgeous, and the hot springs are a definite plus (but kind of hard on your guitar).
But Breitenbush is very popular and thus both hard and spendy to book.

The trouble with some places like Eugene is that they don't have good air travel access.   I'd vote for a place like Seattle, Portland, Sacramento, San Jose, Reno, etc., that is easy to get to by car, train, or plane.   If we expect to draw 'catters from a wide area, that is.

Of course, maybe we could all crash our own Barbara's folkie gathering in Sheridan, OR (not too far from Salem) on the third weekend in July. ;)


10 Oct 06 - 08:24 PM (#1855401)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Ebbie

Hey! I own a couple of acres in the valley behind Sheridan. However, it is unimrpoved these days- no water, electricity or toilet (except one outside one).

Does Sheridan have camp/lodging facilities at the jump area?


10 Oct 06 - 08:42 PM (#1855421)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Genie

I'd say west of the Rockies, just because there are more of us humans there than on or east of the them danged mountains if we're talking about the western US. And summer is about the only time you can pretty much count on not having to deal with snow in the Rockies if you're driving.

The most important thing for me is to know WAY ahead of time when it's going to be so I can plan my work itinerary around it.


10 Oct 06 - 08:49 PM (#1855426)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Mudjack

Sheridan OR is where or near Barbara's digs. She does in fact have an annual gathering weekend pulling attendance from Portland Folklore Society and San Francisco folks. She hasn't posted in some time but might consider hosting for mudcatters and these other folkies. That is a week end that offers a lot of space and a good creek for bathing. A lot of music...music...songs.and more music.
Ah shucks, I'd have to drive 2 1/2 hours. To get to their place you have to travel on Harmony Rd.
Mudjack


11 Oct 06 - 03:10 AM (#1855565)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Artful Codger

There are thousands of miles keeping the two coasts apart. The REAL West covers over half of that. If it's to be ignored because the coastalites are spoiled, don't even pretend you're arranging a "Western USA" gathering.


11 Oct 06 - 05:07 AM (#1855615)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: katlaughing

Bertdarlin', sorry I didn't answer you earlier. It's the traffic thing...hate it, vowed not to drive in it, unless extreme duress.:-)


11 Oct 06 - 12:05 PM (#1855902)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Ebbie

Artful Codger, most of the western Mudcatters congregate in high population areas like Seattle, Portland, San Francisco, Sacramento, San Diego...

If a spot in Wyoming, for instance, were chosen just about everyone attending would have to make intricate travel arrangements.

And that isn't a small thing. As Joe Offer noted, flying to a hub and then having to catch one or more smaller planes fairly close to the destination adds a lot of money to the equation.

I, for instance, live in Alaska. I can fly to Seattle (dependent on the lead time, costing anywhere from $400 to $900- and Seattle is my closest southern destinatio!). From Seattle, if I were to change planes and fly to Elko, Nevada that would be another $200 or more. The same would be true of Pocatello, Idaho, although the cost might be slightly less.

If, however, the destination would be drivable from the hub the cost would be much less.


11 Oct 06 - 12:36 PM (#1855929)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: ClaireBear

Not that I've looked into this, but what about somewhere we could get to by train or bus? I'm just sayin'... airplane travel ain't all that great if you have instruments to pack, anyway. There are trains in many of the parts of the world we've mentioned, and a whole lotta Greyhounds must go through Elko (for example).


11 Oct 06 - 12:44 PM (#1855937)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Amos

Some of the people all of the time, all of the people none of the time, I guess. Are there any good gathering holes within, say, 100 miles of Portland or Seattle? Hey, Jen!! You started this, now!! You gonna back off and say "Whatever...."? Troublemaker!! LOL!


A


11 Oct 06 - 01:41 PM (#1855989)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Stewart

I guess I'd favor Washington, Oregon, or California (in that order). We drive down to the Bay Area from Seattle several times a year to see our daughter, so that's all familiar territory. I wouldn't fly any place for a gathering - too much of a hassle with instruments, etc. and too expensive. And driving to the Rockies or any place "out east" (sorry, I grew up on the west coast and always considered those places as "out east") is just too far to drive. And I would guess that the majority of Western USA 'catters live on the west coast. There are some great places in Oregon, and Washington's not bad either, or northern California would be fine. So that's my vote.

Cheers, S. in Seattle


11 Oct 06 - 03:04 PM (#1856069)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: JenEllen

I have to WORK for a living, Amos...LOL Does that count as a 'whatever...'?

I agree, WA/OR/CA are probably easier. Like I said, place doesn't really matter to me because I'm fairly mobile. I though inclusion would be great if there were some magical mystery destination that everyone could get to easily. If that's not the case, whatever... *bg* We'll do what we can. I have a feeling if we find a suitable place the folkies will come.


11 Oct 06 - 03:12 PM (#1856079)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: GUEST

Just find a brewery to camp in, that will motivate them.


11 Oct 06 - 03:15 PM (#1856083)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Sorcha

And I don't see that we need an extant festival. Might be easier in some ways if we didn't.


11 Oct 06 - 03:19 PM (#1856089)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Rapparee

Fly to Salt Lake City, drive to Elko. SLC is a major hub. Fly to SLC, drive (or take the shuttle) to Pocatello. Vernal is 3 driving hours from SLC. These places are not as isolated as people seem to think.

Goodness, you all are starting to sound like New Yorkers ("But...west of the Hudson civilization simply ends, you know!").


11 Oct 06 - 03:22 PM (#1856092)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: GUEST,amergin

Yeah but with New Yorkers if they drive for three hours, they drove through 5 states, (or if manhattan five blocks)...

With us Westerners you drive for 3 hours you may be in the same county.


11 Oct 06 - 03:37 PM (#1856104)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Mudjack

The west starts at the Mississippi River, Sounds like we have a serious difference on where this should take place. Bottom line is the person taking the lead should have the say.
Jen, I have learned some wisdom in this thread. If I ever decide to host a gathering for folks, I think I will just make some plans and invite everyone and anyone that can make it will be there. Those that think it is to far or the wrong time can plan and do a more regional gathering.
Western Gathering? maybe Hawaii or a cruise ship. Or maybe West Virginia.
I trust your judgement and will do all I can to see it happen and attend wherever you decide.
Total support from here.
Mudjack


11 Oct 06 - 03:56 PM (#1856128)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: katlaughing

Amtrak comes right through Grand Junction, CO and also through several places in Utah, but that also means people have to have more time off to spend on the train. I love that kind of travel, but time off might not be possible for some.


11 Oct 06 - 04:05 PM (#1856140)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Sorcha

I can't even get to Amtrak. Just tell me when/where and I'll tell you if I can.


11 Oct 06 - 04:43 PM (#1856176)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Rapparee

Me too. I'm just pointing things out.

(Jackson Hole! Have a REAL rendezvous, like the mountain men did -- wenching, drinking, shooting cups of whiskey off your friends head, fighting...I just want to see the billionaires run away in horror.)


11 Oct 06 - 06:54 PM (#1856275)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: GUEST,mg

I would look for a place served by Greyhound, Amtrak and plane, the cheaper the better. And don't make people take multiple modes of trans. to get there. It is too expensive and time-consuming. mg


11 Oct 06 - 07:14 PM (#1856293)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: GUEST, Ebbie

"Goodness, you all are starting to sound like New Yorkers ("But...west of the Hudson civilization simply ends, you know!"). Rappy Smarty Pants

Ha, I say. Haven't seen you at the Getaway.


11 Oct 06 - 07:24 PM (#1856307)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: GUEST

If you haven't been to the Getaway you're a no one? Persona non grata on Mudcat maybe...


11 Oct 06 - 07:47 PM (#1856322)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: GUEST, Ebbie

Sorry, Guest. Guess I was too cryptic. I was poking fun at Rapaire's thought that we were sounding like Americans who are reluctant to see beyond our own territories. And pointing out that perhaps he himself doesn't range too far afield.

(Only funnin', Rap.)


11 Oct 06 - 07:49 PM (#1856324)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Bert

If we count the Mississippi as the start of the West then look at the Amtrak map it seems that Denver or Grand Junction are somehwere near the middle.


11 Oct 06 - 07:54 PM (#1856332)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Deckman

What Stew said! Bob(deckman)Nelson


11 Oct 06 - 08:20 PM (#1856352)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: GUEST

Sorry, Guest Ebbie. I misunderstood. Probably based somewhat on some of the Getaway threads. It seemed out of character for you to even consider something like that. My apologies.


11 Oct 06 - 10:20 PM (#1856439)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Ebbie

'salrrright

:)


11 Oct 06 - 10:52 PM (#1856456)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Rapparee

Been to the Eastern Shore many times, Ebbie. I just can't get away for Getaway. Something about working...living indoors...stuff like that. In fact, I may even be in Annapolis for First Night for the second time. I plan on being Seattle (with my wife) January 19 - 24, 2007, too (library conference).

Heck, I've even been to Juneau! And more than once!


12 Oct 06 - 11:29 AM (#1856894)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Ebbie

What's 'First Night'?

(Hey, I knew I was digging a dry hole.)


12 Oct 06 - 11:31 AM (#1856897)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Amos

That's the night Rapaire lost his virginity, at the tender age of 26. He enjoyed it so much he used the line again, with equal success, a year later (hence, First Night for the second time).


A


12 Oct 06 - 12:37 PM (#1856989)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Ebbie

oh




:)


12 Oct 06 - 02:28 PM (#1857075)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: katlaughing

Tsk, Amos!*bg*

Here ya go, Ebbiedarlin': First Night


12 Oct 06 - 04:57 PM (#1857175)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Dave'sWife

A short drive from Reno is Lake Tahoe (north side) and Truckee so Reno isn't a bad choice. Cheap flights from los Angeles and other western cities. vegas works for me too. Also, Oakland or San Diego.

Me, I'm in Los Angeles


12 Oct 06 - 06:10 PM (#1857243)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Bill D

(we in the East are fortunate to have had the FSGW Getaway as a central, already established format. It helped that many of the organizers/early members of Mudcat were also long term Getaway goers, and that FSGW was such a large group.


I applaud the attempt to organize something out West, but I see it will be tricker to do without somehow merging it with some already established event..(Sunny Camp, the Portland group, the California gathering...etc.)(There is even a group in Denver of some sort) No matter what you do for this first attempt, I'd suggest that any of you who ARE members of a West Coast folk organization explore the possibilities of inviting some of these people...and promoting Mudcat as a way to ...umm...'expand their horizons'.

   I will watch carefully to see how it goes, as I know people 'out West' and would love to have an excuse to visit out there occasionally!

(I know a couple of people in the Portland area who often come back here for the Getaway...maybe they would have some ideas!)


12 Oct 06 - 06:13 PM (#1857245)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: wysiwyg

Aintcha gonna do it at Thermopolis so you can all be in the biggest jello pit EVER? Or Deadwood for the shootout re-enactments?

~Susan


12 Oct 06 - 07:54 PM (#1857326)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: GUEST,mg

Well, sunnycamp is way too out of the way. Rainycamp is probably accessable by plane, train, local bus to pretty close to the camp. It is 30 or so miles out of Seattle. It is where contented cows used to be centered. I think it gets near to capacity though. Singtime from Portland is way out of town and I don't know how close you could get with public transportation.

mg


12 Oct 06 - 10:07 PM (#1857432)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Genie

Rapaire said, "Jackson Hole! Have a REAL rendezvous, like the mountain men did -- wenching, drinking, shooting cups of whiskey off your friends head, fighting...I just want to see the billionaires run away in horror."

Hey, I'd love to see the billionaires run away in horror (unless they want to spot us for the lodging for the gathering). But I gave up wenching back in --- Hmmm

Come to think of it, I never was much for wenching. ;-D


12 Oct 06 - 10:23 PM (#1857445)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Genie

RainyCamp wouldn't be that hard to get to, but the site isn't very amenable to small jams.   Unlike the cabins at Camp Adams, where Singtime Frolics (Oregon) is held, most cabins at the RainyCamp site either have no living-room or lounge area or have prohibitions against having food or drink in those areas.    And being in February, it's often - well - rainy. If not snowy.

I think it would be better not to piggyback our gathering on top of any large-size extant gathering.   (SunnyCamp would be great if Long Beach weren't so inaccessible.)

I'm sympathetic with those who are east of the Rockies, and distance-wise I'd have no problem with the gathering being in Denver or Elko or Wyoming or even the Dakotas.   But I think it makes sense to choose a location that's likely to have decent weather for the gathering.   IMO that makes western California, Oregon, or Washington preferable in most months of there, and it makes the Sacramento valley less than ideal in mid-summer. At the very least, let's try for a spot that is not likely to involve driving on snowy or icy roads to get there.   ((f you live where the roads are snowy or icy, you can't avoid that, but at least you can get away from the snow and ice as you get nearer to the gathering locale.)

I also agree that air travel can be a hassle for carrying instruments. But if I ever make it to "The" Mudcat Getaway, that's something I will have to confront anyway.


12 Oct 06 - 10:27 PM (#1857449)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: katlaughing

I think we had kinda thought it would be in the summer so folks have more time off and also for weather reasons. I can't think of too many who would want to risk winter weather travel to WY, some parts of Colorado or, even parts of Nevada.:-)


12 Oct 06 - 10:37 PM (#1857453)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Amos

Definitely a SUmmer Thing in my mind.

Candidate spots?


A


13 Oct 06 - 12:01 AM (#1857499)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: GUEST,KT

Bill D. You already HAVE an excuse to come out west...two of 'em, in fact...Me & Eb!


13 Oct 06 - 12:01 AM (#1857501)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Ebbie

One lone voice here: I live in cool, moist country where summertime temperatures range from 55 to 75. I gave up going 'south' in the summer some years ago; the only lovely time of day in most of those places is in late evenings and early mornings. And that is OUTdoors- INdoors, in many places, it stays close to 70 degrees overnight. It is to die for- and I don't mean that happily

So, anyway, when it is 85 degrees by 10:30 in the morning and the temperature goes UP from there I'm done for.

There are a number of places mentioned already in this thread that for me would be very doable. If the place you choose is in one of the areas I can't face I'll take a pass.

But that IS OK. Any place that can handle a group like ours, is affordable and is reachable by normal means I would hope the group would go for. Choose a place- and if I can do it I'll be there.


13 Oct 06 - 07:41 PM (#1858314)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: katlaughing

Well, for lack of anything definitive(?) I will check into some places here, up in the cooler regions for summertime, but close enough to fly into Grand Junction, and post the info. I have a friend coming to visit, so it might not be until nearer the end of next week.

Summer of 2007 (I hear you, Ebbie. I detest the heat, so will find something with A/C or up in the mountains) which month is best for all and think of weekends or weekdays and please say so.

Thanks!


13 Oct 06 - 09:17 PM (#1858383)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Genie

Well, the Seattle, Portland, and SF Bay areas are usually not too hot in the summer.   No guarantees, of course, but the temp can also soar in the daytime in Denver, Idaho, Wyoming, etc. -- not to mention Reno, Las Vegas, or Arizona & New Mexico.   

Anywhere near the coast (including Portland) usually cools off quite a bit at night even in the summer, too.    If and when it does stay around 70, that's not uncomfortable.   

I guess we need some specific sites to contemplate and evaluate (accessibility, cost, usability for jams, etc.).


14 Oct 06 - 03:42 AM (#1858489)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Slag

Here's my virtual 2 cents ( clunk, clunk!). It looks like we'd all like to have the event in our own backyards for 1) convenience sake 2) financial reasons 3) braggin' rights 4) etc. and I'm not above that. Proximity looks like it could be the deciding factor for many of us. The West is huge. I remember the first time I flew back (EAST, that is) to Texas some 1500 mile and I was welcomed by the locals to be "Out West"! I kinda side with Open Mike for those same selfish reasons. And I'd be there with Joe but navigating SF is a real pain that I avoid every chance I get. I want to see this concept take shape. There are many really great and scenic beaches and cities on CA's Northern coastline and the end of the first week in Aug. '07 is mid-Summer. Pacifica, Muir Beach, Stinson, Mendocino, Ft. Bragg or even Richardson's Grove (Redwoods) would be great. Nonetheless, let's work for a concensus to accomodate the greatest number. You might also want to remember the movable feast, hit 2,3 or even 4 locations around the West. I think visiting a couple of places consecutively would be a nice vacation and a chance to meet more Mudcatters.


14 Oct 06 - 10:28 AM (#1858671)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Alice

In the early days of Mudcat, a Montana member in Columbus, MT, "A. Strange" (Aaron Strange, I think) invited everyone to a blue grass/folk existing gathering, Musicians' Rendezvous, in a campground at Columbus along the interstate highway and Yellowstone river. Descriptions of the place are in these threads.
Old threads
MUDSTOCK 99 Click here
and
Sign up for Mudstock 99 Click here


14 Oct 06 - 10:43 AM (#1858675)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Rapparee

I would like to see this get off the ground. Depending upon location and dates I may or may not be able to go, but I'd like to see it get off the ground.

There is also nothing that says it has to be held in the same place every time. Some people are ALWAYS going to be inconvenienced -- I doubt that Wolfgang or Skarpi will come, for instance, or even some of the Canadians who live in The West.

I suggested Elko because it would be pretty inconvenient for everybody while still have certain amenities (indoor plumbing and beer, for example). I suggest Pocatello (yes, it would be DAMNED convenient for me!) primarily because it's a small city that could handle the gathering and because it's at the intersection of two major Interstates.

Frankly, I don't care WHERE it is (see note, above). Let's just get on with it.


14 Oct 06 - 08:59 PM (#1859070)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: pdq

Here is another possible choice. It is at the intersection of two major hiways:

                                     Wells, NV


14 Oct 06 - 09:02 PM (#1859072)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Rapparee

Fine with me.


14 Oct 06 - 09:44 PM (#1859089)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: katlaughing

pdq, wow! Wells, looks like a great place! A bit of a drive for us, but it sure looks and sounds pretty and reasonably priced. I was hoping the train still runs through it, but didn't see it on the list of stations at the Amtrak site. I sure like the looks of it, anyway.

Thanks,

kat


14 Oct 06 - 10:03 PM (#1859100)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Barry Finn

What's wrong with San Francisco? It's about mid way on the West Coast (like the Getaway) so it would draw equally from both the North(including Canada) & the South. SF & the surrounding areas is home to a large amount of catters (like the Getaway). It would draw those inland, at least those west of the Rockies, I think. It's easy & cheaper for flights, trains, buses & road travel. There's existing folk camps if that's a way to go or there are other festivals that are held all about the area if that's a choice too. I see east of the Rockies to the Great Lake to the Gulf to the Appalachians as more suited for a seperate Get-To-Gether in maybe the Kansas City-St. Louis area or even Memphis or Chicago area.

Of course none of this is near me but from this coast it's more of a likelyhood that east coast catter's that would go would find SF the easiest destination to get to. Because of the number of catters living in & around SF it would ease the difficulties of finding a stop over or a lending hand from an airport or bus/train station or even just hooking up with a ride or car pooling. The locals in the DC area are noted for their help althought not much is ever mentioned about this aspec of the Getaway. The mudcat folks in the Baltimore/DC areas help out with these small bumps in the road & it has made many from overseas that come over for the Getaway & alot of us other continental long distance travelers alot more comfortable & you can't imagine how much smoother the road gets when there are more than just a couple of hands willing to make an offer by being in a mudcat rich enviorment.

So that's my 2 cents for nothing, where ever it is though I wish that I could be there.

Barry


14 Oct 06 - 10:05 PM (#1859103)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: katlaughing

*traffic* and cost...it's still a long ways from west of the Rockies:-)


14 Oct 06 - 10:07 PM (#1859104)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Sorcha

Traffic, people and money.


14 Oct 06 - 10:20 PM (#1859109)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Barry Finn

"*traffic* and cost...it's still a long ways from west of the Rockies:-)"

Come on, it can't be worst than us Northeasters blowing in on DC. Were still diong 10 - 12 - 14hr non stop drives, well, not all of us, Sinsull's a whimp but then she has an excuse, she has to put up with me for the journey not to mention those 2 other wild women, shopping freaks. We do need to have a visit & a stay with Tinker on the way.

Barry


14 Oct 06 - 10:33 PM (#1859113)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: GUEST,mg

I think you will find you won't get people from far away unless it is near, like not requiring a rental car, to an airport of some kind and is some sort of destination. I could not possibly, and for heavens sake this is not a factor so have it wherever, make it to the middle of Nevada unless there were an airport with cheap flights. But before you plan this, see who can come under what conditions. Some of the long-standing camps here have trouble now and then surrounded by a million or so people and with good public transportation. mg


14 Oct 06 - 10:39 PM (#1859116)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Rapparee

Barry,

Straight-line distance for Sorcha would be 1,017 miles. It's only 637 miles for me. Of course, that's "as the crow flies" and not "as the car has to drive."

The highest motel rate on the Wells website is less than $55 per night, and that's for 4 people. I know for a certainty that San Francisco rates are somewhat higher.

There's another thing: some people simply do not LIKE large cities. Me, I only dislike New York City and Los Angeles, but I'll put up with them if I'm forced to do so. But there are people, many of them, who think differently -- and many of them live in the West.


14 Oct 06 - 10:41 PM (#1859117)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Rapparee

The closest major air hub to Wells is Salt Lake City. If you don't want to rent a car, a pickup by someone might be arranged.


14 Oct 06 - 11:19 PM (#1859139)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Sorcha

I can't stand cities, don't deal well with crowds of strangers and I am NOT going to drive to San Fran. No way, no how. Just how far I can go depends on date and if Mr is available to help drive. DATES people...and just how can we keep a certain troll from knowing the final details?????


15 Oct 06 - 12:46 AM (#1859155)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Ebbie

The chances of this is looking good!

If it should happen to be in the San Francisco area, how about looking inland from there? I know- it's pretty urban for a long way around. But is there a user-friendly community east of there so one wouldn't have to drive the congested freeways?

Personally I like northern California much better than farther south; places like Dunsmuir and even more remote, Arcata, or in the other direction, Marysville and - humph, the cities have fled my mind...

Wells Nevada sounds good to me. At 5000+ feet it's milder in the summer too.

Hey, Rapaire, just how big IS your house? And your back yard?

:)


15 Oct 06 - 01:14 AM (#1859160)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Mudjack

Back yards are great for limited numbers. My home(2 bdr 2 bth) is open to all that think it might work. 37 miles east of Portland OR airport and secluded away from the city life. The gathering would have to share with my normal circle of pickers and that can get crowded on its own merits. Could we secretly have a Mud gathering without my closer music friends knowing? I don't think so, but am willing to make the offer. The Columbia River gorge is beautiful in the summer months excluding the rainy season. The winter months can serve up ice storms. We'll just have to keep plugging away.
Also willing to drive to some other catter's home/backyard
Mudjack


15 Oct 06 - 01:48 AM (#1859169)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Amos

Definite interest, a big plus, and lots of good possibilities.

The rest is like herding catfish!


A


15 Oct 06 - 03:13 AM (#1859185)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Joe Offer

These are all great ideas - but so far, it's easier and cheaper for me to go from Sacramento to the Getaway for a Mudcat gathering. I still strongly suggest considering San Francisco's Camp Harmony for a gathering. Camp attendance has been down in recent years, and Mudcatters attending could be as helpful to Harmony as it has been to the Getaway. The Mudcatters I've seen at Harmony are DADGBE, Radriano, Chanteyranger, Blessings Barbara, Bev & Jerry Praver, Open Mike, and a whole lot of others who have posted occasionally.
-Joe-


15 Oct 06 - 03:54 AM (#1859196)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Genie

I like the Camp Harmony idea, Joe.

I agree that the best location would be something near major transportation routes (airport, interstate or train or all 3). I love the Northern Calif. Coast or the Big Sur area, but places there are not quick or easy to get to, even after you've flown to the area from Portland, Seattle, Boise, Denver, Phoenix, etc.

The Sacramento area has less traffic but it a lot hotter in the summer.

If I did have to spend 2 or 3 days or $250 each way to get to the gathering location, I'd want the room and board to be very cheap to make up for that.   But it would be nice if I didn't also have to go buy a tent.   

I agree the West Coast gathering doesn't have to be in the same location every year.   

The "movable" feast idea has its merits too.    We did have a great time at JenEllen's in 2002 with only about 10 of us in attendance.   And it didn't take most of us terribly long or cost us an arm and a leg to get there.   (Speed demon Amos drove straight thru from Ellensburg, WA, to San Diego in about 12 hours, but he's the exception.) ;)
I imagine some of us would be able to make it to two or more smaller Mudcat gatherings in the same year, too.


15 Oct 06 - 10:02 AM (#1859328)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Alice

Maybe I missed it, but is there a link to Camp Harmony web site, photos, etc.?


15 Oct 06 - 10:23 AM (#1859336)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Big Mick

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


15 Oct 06 - 10:35 AM (#1859342)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Rapparee

Western Eastern and Western Gatherings? You could attend both the Western Eastern and the Western Western, even in the same year.

Ebbie, my back yard is about 50 x 100 feet, with a gate out to the Highland Golf Course. The house has 2.5 kitchens, 3.5 baths, about 6,100 books, three Internet-linked or -linkable computers, four largish rooms (living room, dining room, family room, Sun Room, two offices (his and hers), a sewing room, a guest room, and a room in which sleeping bags could be unrolled. There's also a workshop and a storage room, a covered deck under which is a patio. There's a pad where an RV could be parked (use your holding tank, 'cause there's no sewer connection, but electricity and water could be done) and parking for maybe threee cars in the driveway. There are also two 50-gallon hot water heaters, central air conditioning, a water softener, and two furnaces. Trash pickup is Friday, and there is a bus stop close by. Oh yeah, two fireplaces with inserts, but we've been told to use only the downstairs one because it's the better insert.


15 Oct 06 - 10:40 AM (#1859349)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: katlaughing

It seems to me we are heading towards two smaller, separate gatherings. One coastal, the other closer to the Rocky Mtn. west. I don't know of any concentration of Mudcatters west of the Mississippi, unless it is a fairly large area in the northwest.

The other thing for me, at least, is I will actually be able to make the getaway in 2007, so expenditures for any other gathering in the same year will have to be minimal.

I agree with mg, though, pick the place(s) where the most can make it and I'll come if Rog and I are able.


15 Oct 06 - 10:46 AM (#1859352)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: wysiwyg

Have most of y'all been to a home-based Gathering, or most to a festival-based Gathering? They's two different sorts of events-- both are great I am sure-- but what frame of reference are you trying for?

Both of those styles have evolved, rather than springing up whole from virgin ground, so copying them is probably not the best approach; but if you let the nature and extent of your propinquity determine what is possible it will evolve from there.

~Former Gathering Hostess


15 Oct 06 - 12:28 PM (#1859407)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Ebbie

Wizzy's comment reminds me: If there should be 40 attendees, say, maybe a home-based gathering would work very well. A sister in law of mine had her family reunion based at her home. Their house and yard are large but many people stayed in motels nearby for the short time away each day.

They weren't into music -it was food and games and talk - but music is a far, far better thing that we do...


15 Oct 06 - 01:12 PM (#1859449)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Genie

I agree with Bick Mick.   Flying a few thousand miles isn't prohibitive for a lot of us, nor is driving 12 or more hours.   I just don't think many of us want to do BOTH, and that's what would be involved for a lot of people if the gathering were on the northern coast of Calif or in some location in the mountain states that's not close to a sizeable city.

A location not too far from a large population center increases the likelihood that people will be able to carpool to the gathering site.


15 Oct 06 - 01:32 PM (#1859468)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Rapparee

Salt Lake City (airport hub) to Wells, NV, via I-80: about 178 miles, or 2 hours 30 minutes driving time.

SLC to Elko, NV: 229 miles, or about 3 hours 15 minutes driving.

SLC to Vernal, UT: 171 miles; 2 hours 57 minutes.

I've been saying it: fly to Salt Lake City, drive a couple hours.


15 Oct 06 - 01:54 PM (#1859489)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: open mike

i think i may have found a possible site..
http://www.mysticvalleyretreat.com/
this beautiful community is just
up the canyon from me and is
a retreat site with several
cabins and an old school
house for group jams.
there is also wood
burning hot tub
and camping
space there.
Their group rates
are about $25 per day
per person and meals are
avaialbe for an added fee.
The Sacramento airport is about
2 1/2 to 3 hours away and up canyon
Reno is about the same or a bit more
it is situated in the beautiful feather
river canyon and the feather river flows thru
the property and there is a stream as well. also
there are a couple of camp grounds and my property
close by as well if we over flow the place...well???
i will search up more info...but i think we should make
a consideration for this one!! Mt. Lassen volcaninc nat'l
park is near by as well as the sierra nevada mountains and
lakes and rivers and forests and mountains and natural wonders.


15 Oct 06 - 02:04 PM (#1859498)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Ebbie

Sounds beautiful, OM. I just googled it. Here is what it says about groups.

Over Night Group Rates for 10 or more
Overnight accommodations
$30.00 per person Based on 4 or more per cabin or tepee

Meals per day per person
$25.00 to $35.00

Use of School Building (24-hour period 1pm to 1pm)   
$100.00 per day

            + $8.00 each person not included in overnight accommodations

Use of ceremonial Tepee (24-hour period 1pm to 1pm)
$50.00 per day

            + $8.00 each person not included in overnight accommodations


15 Oct 06 - 02:05 PM (#1859501)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Ebbie

Forgot to give the address


15 Oct 06 - 02:26 PM (#1859518)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Alice

Flying out of small cities/towns in the west can be very expensive. The smaller airports don't get enough traffic to keep the rates affordable and there are usually round about connections that are time consuming and few choices. You can fly from Washington DC to London for far less than from Bozeman to Sacramento. You can check out comparisons at cheapflights.com.


15 Oct 06 - 02:45 PM (#1859536)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Midchuck

You can fly from Washington DC to London for far less than from Bozeman to Sacramento.

And Albany, NY, or Burlington, VT, or Manchester, NH, or Hartford, CT, to Bozeman, is furr, furr, wuss...

Peter


15 Oct 06 - 03:30 PM (#1859559)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Barry Finn

When I said San Francisco I did not mean the city itself I meant that as an base metro area. Like the camp used in the DC area is not in the city but it would be easily accessible from a major metro area, Washington/Baltimore. Camp Harmony or the like seems to be a fine fit, Sorcha & others that drive would not have to be near a city (same as the Getaway), only those that had to fly, bus or train in would have to & then make a connection from there which would be an easier hop to a camp rather than try going to an unlikely spot like Chico & then finding some sort of transport to Calamazoo. If I for example fly into San Francisco to go the a camp, like others have done. I could arrive in the AM & somehow pre arrange for a ride to the camp, hopefully with a mudcatter or split a rental with a mudcatter, no overnight hotel stay, & be at the camp by afternoon. That could not possibly happen in an area where an airport, train or bus connection are so small to non-existent with hopefully at least one vechicle rental stall.
If this doesn't make sense, that's ok, figure out something else. No matter what I can fool mself & dream.

Barry


15 Oct 06 - 03:38 PM (#1859568)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Alice

I really need a vacation! I have not had a vacation trip since I took a few days to go to Glacier Park at least four years ago!
A Mudcat gathering near San Francisco would be great. I can only take time off from my job, according to my manager, during Christmas time when sales are slow! Well, most would not want to do Mudcat Camp West during Christmas, I suspect, but if I could get out of here in the middle of snowy winter and be on the west coast somewhere, I'd really love it.

Alice


15 Oct 06 - 04:22 PM (#1859605)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Rapparee

I drove to Bozeman in, what was it? February? But I'm sort of nuts.

Cost is why so many people from Pocatello drive to SLC to catch planes -- or take one of the shuttles that run several times a day.


15 Oct 06 - 04:46 PM (#1859631)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Mudjack

Open Mike's post about Mystic Valley Retreat sounds mighty good.
Mudjack


15 Oct 06 - 06:29 PM (#1859709)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Joe Offer

Well, whether it's an "official" Mudcat gathering or not, I'd like to encourage everyone to think about attending the San Francisco Folk Music Club's Camp Harmony near Santa Cruz, Wednesday December 27th, 2006 - Monday January 1st, 2007. It's significantly cheaper if you register before November 1, so now's the time to decide [$325 for 6 days now, $410 after November 1].
-Joe-


15 Oct 06 - 09:49 PM (#1859884)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: GUEST,.gargoyle

    Sorry, Gargoyle, you got deleted, just like what happens every time you pick on the womenfolks. What can I say?
    love,
    -Joe Offer-


16 Oct 06 - 12:56 AM (#1859992)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Genie

Rapaire, you do have a point about locations near Elko or SLC. The airlines do often offer incredibly cheap flights to those cities for the weekend.   My erstwhile boyfriend used to fly there on those cheap flights all the time and then spend the weekend hiking in the wilderness instead of spending the anticipated $$ in the casinos. LOL

My ONLY concern about Nevada in July or August is the heat.    Isn't it awfully hot?

genie


16 Oct 06 - 01:00 AM (#1859993)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Genie

Joe, I would LOVE to come to the Camp Harmony gathering some year, but the year's end time is the absolute WORST time for me to contemplate being away from home (since I'm always away over the Christmas holidays too).   Too many loose ends to tie up business-wise and finance-wise at year's end.    I really wish there were a Bay Area gathering at just about any OTHER time of year. :)


16 Oct 06 - 08:59 AM (#1860220)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Rapparee

Weather data for Wells, NV is here, although you have to scroll down a bit. You can check other cities and towns at this website as well.


17 Oct 06 - 07:54 PM (#1861725)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Ebbie

Let's hope this subject is simmering, even if the thread isn't visible.


19 Oct 06 - 09:55 AM (#1863176)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: katlaughing

Hope this isn't dead in the water.

FWIW, I have personal reasons to go to Salinas, CA, esp. if there were a Mudcat Gathering. So...that'd be one place in CA I would seriously look at if it worked for most other folks.

kat


19 Oct 06 - 11:35 AM (#1863265)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: ClaireBear

I hope it's still a going thing too.

Salinas is about 45 minutes from my house, Kat! But I'd go anywhere in the West for this gather.

Claire


19 Oct 06 - 12:22 PM (#1863317)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: katlaughing

That's kewl, ClairBear! It is also about 45 minutes from Rosicrucian Park - one of my fav. places to visit!


19 Oct 06 - 12:38 PM (#1863345)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: pdq

This is one of the most interesting places in San Jose:

                                 Rosicrucian Museum

But do not expect to get there from Salinas in 45 minutes unless you have a private jet.


19 Oct 06 - 01:14 PM (#1863391)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: ClaireBear

1 hour and 4 minutes per Mapquest; I'd say she's not too far off. I work about a mile from the museum, Kat.


19 Oct 06 - 03:50 PM (#1863522)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: JenEllen

Got word back from Elko commerce folks and they say:

I would look at the Western Folklife Center Home of the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering at 775-738-7508 or the Stockmen's Hotel & Casino at 775-738-5141 for meeting space.

Haven't really had time for much else. I'm still up for it too, just haven't had free time to search for spots.


19 Oct 06 - 08:33 PM (#1863748)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Homeless

If/when a date, time, and place is decided upon, can it posted near the top of the thread for those of us that have an interest in attending, but don't live far enough west to have an impact on decisions (and don't want to wade thru 200 or so posts to find the decisions)?


20 Oct 06 - 12:30 AM (#1863863)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: katlaughing

Good suggestion, Homeless. I'd be happy to insert it, or we could have a new thread once it is decided.


22 Oct 06 - 07:59 PM (#1866049)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Genie

Well, Homeless, you could always volunteer your ...

Er, oh, right. ;)


22 Oct 06 - 09:22 PM (#1866106)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Rapparee

Hey, Gargle. I ain't no "haggling hen."


22 Oct 06 - 09:55 PM (#1866124)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Rapparee

Wrong. I don't tell nobody how I'm gonna vote, not even my wife.


23 Oct 06 - 12:11 AM (#1866188)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Sorcha

Sombody just has to take charge here. Who?


23 Oct 06 - 12:30 PM (#1866561)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: open mike

As I mentioned i have been hosting a folk music camp out the first wee4kend in june for half dozen years now. I would be willing to
change this event from the rustic camp ground to a place with cabins
as posted in the thread about the Mystic Valley Retreat. If there is
interest, i will reserve the space. Sacramento airport is a couple
of hours to the south, and Reno is a couple of hours East.


23 Oct 06 - 01:35 PM (#1866600)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Amos

Yay, Open Mike! A positive proposition for action.

Here's the Website for the Mystic Valley Retreat.

Sounds like fun to me.


A


23 Oct 06 - 02:01 PM (#1866614)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: ClaireBear

It does sound cool, I quite agree. Thank you, Open Mike.


23 Oct 06 - 02:28 PM (#1866638)
Subject: RE: Western USA 'Catter Gather--Time/Place?
From: Big Mick

This whole thread reminds me of a Wobblie Convention.

Sdomeone needs to grab hold, come up with 3 or 4 sites, take a poll of potential attendees from those 3 or 4 choices, set a date and let the chips fall where they may.

I would like to consider coming to this. But to do so, it needs to be within 2 hours of a decent sized airport with reasonable fares available. And you need to set a date.

I sure hope you all get it together, because I would like to see this become another big annual event.

Pullin' for you,

Mick