I know it's early yet..but are we having the conference sometime in march and in california somewhere??when will we know all the details so we can make arrangements????

Probably going to be a few more months before that info is out, Christine... sorry!

I think I can say that the conference is probably going to be a little later this time around - possibly April or May? - so we don't run into the whole spring break mess again...

Definitely will not be in March this year... More like April or May, as Lysbeth mentioned.
It is also definitely going to be in California, likely around the LA Region, but nothing firm. We are starting to work on this now and are talking to other organizations such as Fed-CURE, TNC and a bunch of others to see if we can't make this one many times larger than the last. :)

is there going to be merchandise like shirts for example?

there will be merchandise avalible :D
This year we are looking to make this a convention rather than a conference :D
I am working on this as we speak and will up date everyone as things progress.
It will be held in California and will be in April or May.

there will be merchandise avalible :D
This year we are looking to make this a convention rather than a conference :D
I am working on this as we speak and will up date everyone as things progress.
It will be held in California and will be in April or May.
I would like to know if youd like to have glo-shirts,sweatears,hats,jackets for example becaus i can help you on that?

Whooo Hoooo PTO Conference (Convention) in Los Angeles!!!!!!

I saw Disneyland Hotel? Just a suggestion!!!! LOL

Cant wait!!!!

There are a lot of nice hotels by the LAX airport if you need names let me know!!

Will there be a poll for the dates ??? Personally, I would prefer end of May, so I have time to save, and beside, end of May is my b-day, and my parents are always generous... :D

I will go to both Calif to see my last year buddies and meet my next year buddy :) , AND I will also go to Florida to visit my bad boy. :yay: So, this will cost me a max of $$$ only for the flights. :( I won't even mention the Tequila shots !! :D

Phil

Phil,
You know we will make it all possible for you to come! Like I told you before there are no if ands or buts...you're comming :)
I'm sure we will have a poll as soon as we see the avalibility and work out all the details.

Phil, the tequila is on me! Promise... :D

I would love to go , I enjoyed meeting all of you in Orlando but the finacial problem. We are saving for some land to build on. It is hard because by this time of the year we have gone to Key West, and many other places I am having vacation withdrawals. I know you guys will have a blast.

ok...me and my friend and my daughter are coming to the PTO conference...we are wanting to stay in the city for 1 week...i want to get close to all places............like fishermans wharf..........the golden gate bridge......china town..........any idea????

plus my daughter wants to be in????hotel/motel???(the ones with no access to the outside)...........

does any one know what DISTRICT we are trying to get into???

i am soooooooooo anxious to know...........i want to start making plans NOW...ok so I"m pusshy............sorrry

any help will be greatly appreciated

Why not wait unitl they announce what hotel they have for the Conference, it may be in the heart of things!!
Wharf, Chinatwon are close, you will have to drive to the bridge. (not far tho)
If you plan on driving to SF.....you could cross the bridge on the way in!!

One of the nicest and cheapest hotels is the Holiday Inn on Kearny St. I think they call it the Holiday Inn Chinatown-Financial District. You can walk to Chinatown and North Beach, or downtown, and it's a short bus or cab ride to Fishermans Wharf. If you book online it can be under $100/night, sometimes can be $65 (way cheap for SF) and be sure to ask for a Bay view room, which gives you a spectacular view in the morning!!

I live an hour and a half from SF but when I need to stay overnight, that's my place!

There's a great little "boutique" hotel in North Beach called The Boheme. It's right on Columbus...right in the middle of a ton of great cafes...5 minute walk into Chinatown...5 minute walk to the wharf. It's got a website. Also, if you're interested in a flat, I have a friend who has one she rents out - also in North Beach (so it would be like being a native to stay there!) - and I can check what kind of price she'd give you for a week.
Let me know...
- Jane

I'd wait until the conference details are announced as likely there will be a deal on room rates for people who stay before/after the conference... Bella was able to have that happen last year...

I'm waiting ....i'm waiting... :fb: :fb: :fb: i'm one of those people who procrastinate..........unless........i'm over excited :D

then when i get the answer i will wait till the last min. to do something about it............. :rolleyes: :D

Girl dont feel bad...I have been over excited too...Im ready to start packin!
~Katie

OK what the deal is it in SF? IF so I'll be there it's my home grounds someone feel me in?? I know SF real well LOL< OH BOY WHAT FUN!!!!!!!

I did not know the conference will be in Frisco, so I have decided to come. I have family in Oakland. That is where I am from. So I will be happy to meet everyone finally. It will be great fun.

Union Square is right in the middle of town, and everything is pretty accessible from there. If you are on a budget, the public transportation system here (sfmuni.com) will get you to just about anywhere you want to go within the city. And cabs are easy to find downtown.

My flight is booked and now I'm just counting down the days!!! :dance: :yay:

Can't wait to see everyone!

mine too....i did mine this past saturday!!!!!!!

woooooo-hooooooooooo!!!!

:blah: :blah: :blah: :blah: :blah: :blah: :blah: :blah: :blah: :blah: :blah: :blah: :blah: :blah: :blah: :blah: :blah: :blah: :blah: :blah: :blah:

Phil :p

Awww Phil :(

Yippee :)

If i go to the conference, I definitely want to do the Alcatraz tour. Has anything been scheduled? Last thing I read was that it would be Thursday or Sunday - that makes a difference when planning flights! Please let me know! thanks!

Hey Everyone,

Don't forget the PTO International Conference in San Francisco! The deadline to get your $$$ in is fast approaching!

For Conference Info check this thread:

http://www.prisontalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=103220

Looking for a Roommate(s)???

Post in this thread!

http://www.prisontalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=103757

Can't wait to see you Mrs. D and everyone else there in San Fran :D :D :D

Can't wait to see you there Mrs D. and Lysbeth.

The PTO conference is going to be great and this will mark the first time I have been to my Hometown since my release from prison.

I hope to share this Blessing with all of you from PTO. Looking forward to seeing everyone there!

Patti

Has anyone (resident or not) ever purchased this, and if so....is it a good deal? How much are the MUNI and cable car fares? The cost for a SanFran CityPass is $40 for adults, $31 for a child. It seems like a spectacular deal, if only for the trolley/MUNI fare alone...when you add in 5 attractions, it appears to be the way to go. Since none of the activities are "scheduled", you can be flexible with plans, and allow time for other PTOers to get in on a "field trip", as it were.

Here's the writeup from Hotwire.com; it was an add-on option after I purchased my flight (woohooo, rolled the dice with Hotwire, saved $110 on airfare, and got really great flight times!).....

Description

CityPass is a revolutionary new way to see the most popular attractions in America's top vacation cities at a substantial saving, with no waiting in main entrance ticket lines. San Francisco's CityPass contains an actual ticket to five of the city's best attractions and Cable Cars, and saves you 50% off box office prices if the attraction tickets were purchased individually.
Please note, CityPass is not a group tour and is designed for you to enjoy each attraction independently at your own leisure.
Here's What Is Included In San Francisco...


Exploratorium:
San Francisco's internationally acclaimed museum of science, art and human perception features over 650 hands-on exhibits.
Location: On the way to the Golden Gate Bridge at the Palace of Fine Arts, 3601 Lyon Street

Blue & Gold Fleet Bay Cruise:
A narrated one-hour tour sails under the Golden Gate Bridge and offers views of the city skyline, Coit Tower and Alcatraz. Blue & Gold Fleet boats depart daily, year-round, from PIER 39.
Location: PIER 41/39 west of the marina at Beach St. and the Embarcadero, 2 blocks east of Fisherman's Wharf
Option Ticket - Choice between:


California Academy of Sciences & Steinhart Aquarium:
Earth, Ocean and Space all in one place. Includes the Steinhart Aquarium & California Academy of Sciences and the Natural History Museum.
Location: 875 Howard St. between 4th and 5th Streets
OR

Legion of Honor:
The Legion of Honor's European art collection includes favorites such as sculptures by Rodin and masterpiece selection of French impressionist painting.
Location: In Lincoln Park Golf Course at 34th Avenue and Clement Street

San Francisco Museum of Modern Art:
The West Coast's most comprehensive collection of 20th-century art.
Location: 151 Third Street (between Howard and Mission) in the Yerba Buena Gardens cultural district

Asian Art Museum:
The family can experience San Francisco's greatest art collection at the city's newest cultural landmark. View colorful treasures from Asia's rich past and dynamic present, enjoy delicious pan-Asian fare at Cafe Asia and shop for unique gifts and mementos at the museum store. Offering FREE audiotours, exhibitions and hands-on activities for all ages.
Location: 200 Larkin Street (between Fulton and McAllister)

7 consecutive day use of Cable Car and MUNI public transportation:
The San Francisco Municipal Railway (Muni) provides transportation to all CityPass attractions as well as the Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman's Wharf and Chinatown. The 7 Day Passport entitles you to ride any Municipal Railway passenger vehicle including cable cars, streetcars and buses. Ride as many times a day as you wish.

Your ticket booklet is valid for nine days from date of first use. So for nine days, the CityPass ticket booklet gets you into five famous San Francisco attractions (plus 7 days unlimited use of Cable Car and MUNI). Simply present your CityPass booklet on your way into each attraction. The agent will remove that attraction's ticket, and you're in!

I have never purchased it but it does sound like a great deal IMO

I'm sooooo excited...i Know i will enjoy all those who are going to be there!!!
Alr4eady got the Plane ticket and already paid the fees for conference......

whose going early???? my friend and i and Irisheyes are going to be there on the 19th and stay til the 25th....we have a Napa Wine tour scheduled......anyone else doing "stuff"/?????

Linda and I are driving in. We plan on staying for some time, I just have to take a look around and see what the old hometown has become. Haven't decided what I am going to show Linda and Chrisa, but Alcatraz is definitely out of the question!

Seen enough prisons for this lifetime!

Patti

I'll be there! I won't be there until Friday though :(

hum....just 3 rooms of people????

isn't that funny patti that we have to travel to the other side of the USA to see each other again!!!

I'll be there sometime on Thursday

I'll be there Wednesday... catching a red-eye home Sunday night

I just sent my money!! Gtd to be there in time for the deadline!! Whoooo hooooooo!!!

JJT

WHOOO HOOO CANTwait to meet you JJT!!!! when are you coming in???

LOL! Sam! Hey we met in Florida, now we can visit in California! One of these days we may get together on the Outer Banks!

Next time your up this way, come visit would love to have you!

Patti

WHOOO HOOO CANTwait to meet you JJT!!!! when are you coming in???
I have no idea!! Gotta finish getting moved, then I will figure out how to get there!!

It's gonna be fun to meet everyone!!!

JJT

My money is coming with JJT's and I'm thinking I'll be in Friday morning.

can't wait to meet you rott!!!!

So who's still going?? Still planning to stay in the conference motel?? Me, MY friend and Irisheyes are still headed that way......

anyone else???? :D

I am still going...don't know where I'm staying yet... but I will be there!

I'm still going,not sure where we are staying yet either but I do hope to still get together with everyone!

well maybe we can all still get together for dinner one night......over the weekend

absolutely! :)

For SURELY!! I haven't seen any details YET of suggestions on where to stay. I'd rather as many of us as possible stay in the same hotel so we can make it a true g2g and not a happen to run into thing. ;)

Any suggestions everyone??

I agree Mrs D as many people staying at the same place would be GREAT! I'll be talking with Irish this weekend if we come up with possibilities of hotels we will post here,everyone else do the same :)

sounds GREAT!!!

We still plan on coming, and we are hoping that cjjack will be with us!

Have not heard anything back yet, but I have applied for employment in Oakland, and am hoping that we can get the interview set at that time. Keep your fingers crossed.

Patti

Great Patti! i talked to stacy this morning...she's coming too!!!

I'm coming Friday! I'll be staying around the corner from you ladies' hotel. Would love to meet some of ya'll there.

I'm Coming!

Sorry I didn't see this post a second ago.

hoping to meet all again this year!!! i'm still wondering if we will all get into the same motel...

Does anyone know where they are staying yet?

not yet Jess... I did some looking around on some websites...... I'll repeat myself, I think it would be great if we all stayed at the same place... we dont' necessarily have to spend the days together as a group, but it would be great to g2g for dinners and in the evenings!

I checked the choice hotels site because I have a savings card with them.... I sorted it out for hotels around Fishermans Wharf... I don't know much about SF so I don't know if thats an area we want to stay in.......

Anyway, I found hotels from $62 on up. Here's a few I just randomly picked...

http://www4.choicehotels.com/ires/en-us/html/HotelInfo?sid=8mzH.CYFW2g
qsI.4&hotel=CA228&sarea=FSHWHF&sname=Fisherman%27s+Wharf+San+Fran&sstate=CA&scountry=US&sradius=40.22&slat=37.8103&slon=-122.4181&schain=CI&exp=&scity=&sort=interest&month=4&day=22&depart_month=4&depart_day=25&srp=SSC

http://www4.choicehotels.com/ires/en-us/html/HotelInfo?sid=8mzH.CYFW2gqsI.4&hotel=CA017&sarea=FSHWHF&sname=Fisherman%27s+Wharf+San+Fran&sstate=CA&scountry=US&sradius=40.22&slat=37.8103&slon=-122.4181&schain=CI&exp=&scity=&sort=interest&month=4&day=22&depart_month=4&depart_day=25&srp=SSC

http://www4.choicehotels.com/ires/en-us/html/HotelInfo?sid=8mzH.CYFW2gqsI.4&hotel=CA266&sarea=FSHWHF&sname=Fisherman%27s+Wharf+San+Fran&sstate=CA&scountry=US&sradius=40.22&slat=37.8103&slon=-122.4181&schain=CI&exp=&scity=&sort=interest&month=4&day=22&depart_month=4&depart_day=25&srp=SSC

LOL - I've been checking out around that same area with the thinking that near water would be good... don't ask why I think that though!

Thanks, Sally! :)

We haven't picked one yet either .It would be awesome to all stay at the same place.No matter where we all stay though we have to meet up,no doubt about that!!

I am mainly trying to sort out hotels in the downtown area....that way, we're centrally located, within easy reach of Chinatown, Fisherman's, Golden Gate, etc.

Still digging, still looking....

San Francisco is very hilly and although it says it is 1/2 miles to Fisherman's Wharf that could take you through parts of towns that are Not Acceptable. From what i understand taxi's are hard to get and costly. So what you might be saving in hotel cost may be more with the cab rides.
But the Roadway Downtown sounds good....
i've been looking all week and i've found some good ones but more costly than this one

I seem to be missing something! I thought there was a deal for the Hyatt/Union Square (where the conference is being held), and that most everyone would be staying there, no? I live here, so if you need help picking a location (or whatever) just let me know. It's a pretty small city, so you're never too far from wherever you want to go. For example, Fisherman's Wharf is a 10 minute busride from Union Square. You can walk it in 20 minutes! North Beach is gorgeous (Italian section, so the food is amazing, too) and 10 minutes from everything else.
- Jane

Taxis are really expensive...they have the highest "drop" of any city in the US. However, the bus system is really great, and the downtown muni system amazing. There's an "F Line" down the center of downtown...runs all the way from the Castro to the waterfront (and then left along the Embarcadero up to Pier 39 and Aquatic Park) right down the middle of Market Street. Costs $1.25 to ride, which includes a few hours of on-and-off riding. They run old street cars on that line - many European models - lots of fun.

Jday.. you are a blessing.... can you let us know which hotels/areas to avoid??? Your help would be deeply appreciated!

mrsd

Also - a caution: staying on 5th through 10th Streets can be dicey, especially in the evenings. Lots of homeless, fair amount of "transient hotels" around (translates to some drug stuff happening). It's just not our prettiest section! (now there's an understatement) Anywhere else downtown is fine - safe and walkable. From 4th Street on down to the water is fine...sometimes more than fine. There's a great hotel on 4th Street called the Mosser Hotel (www.themosser.com) - the motels on Lombard Street are less expensive but further "out".

Hello MrsD...glad to help. How about this? I wouldn't put anyone at the Ramada on Market Street (too close to the above referenced 5th to 10th Streets). All the Fisherman's Wharf hotels are fine if you can get a deal (and it's easy to get to Union Square from there) - ditto the Chinatown hotels (which are are on the edges of Chinatown actually, and very accessible to/from Union Square, North Beach and the Wharf.
- Jane

Also - check out www.sanfrancisco.citysearch.com for hotels (that's sanfrancisco-dot-citysearch) It really is a local info line...what's going on...who's got a deal going, etc. Very helpful!

Okay...one more thing and then I REALLY have to get to work!! The Grant Hotel is wonderful, very central, very nice - and one double bed goes for $45-60 - two doubles $60 - 80. Their website is www.granthotel.net (that's "net").

I'm staying at the Danatello do you know anything about this place? It looks nice in the pictures. Thanks.

The Donatello is very nice - and very close to Union Square - about 2 1/2 blocks from the front door to the Hyatt (downhill coming, but slightly uphill going home!). It's not exactly in the "less expensive" category, but you know that! I know some people who keep going back there (always a good recommendation).
- Jane

i think the grant hotel might work if we can get enough rooms to go there all together...irish is checking on that one i think...hopefully we'll be settled in but the middle of next week.....

I like the looks of the grant hotel as well! Sounds like a good one to me.

Yep I'm thinking The Grant may work and like Samiam said hopefully we could get rooms together if everyone likes it....We hope to decide by Tues. I think the plan is

Jday parking is 2 blocks away from the hotel,is it safe to leave my car in that area two days do ya think?

When does every one plan on arriving/leaving?

My flight comes in Wednesday around noon-1 p.m., got a red-eye home around 10 p.m. Sunday night.

I'm thinking I can't come until Friday morning now and planned on going home Sunday night or Monday morning.

Me, my friend, and Irisheyes are coming in on Tues. we'll meet at the airport and go from there.........OHHHHHHHHHHHH I"M AM SOOOOOOOOOO EXCITED!!!!!!!! we are all staying untilTues the next week....coming in on the 19th leaving on 26th early am......I CAN'T WAIT!!!!!

any one up for the wine tour???/ i really want to do Napa Valley tour.........

I will be there Friday around Noon and leaving Sunday around the same time

Hi, everybody...about the parking question:
I don't know if you're staying at the Grant Hotel (753 Bush Street) or the Grant Plaza Hotel (465 Grant Street). I am sure that both refer to the Sutter-Stockton Garage when they talk about parking being about 2 blocks away. That garage is where I park whenever I'm forced into taking my car downtown. The stairwells stink to high heaven (as my grandmother used to say), but the elevators are fine. And yes, it's safe and secure, and it's certainly the least expensive alternative that's really in downtown.
The Grant Hotel (on Bush) is about 4 blocks kind of southwest from the Hyatt (where the meetings are), and the Grant Plaza (on Grant) is about the same distance mostly west, and is right outside of Chinatown. They're both fine...and about the best for "reasonable" rates downtown. (Ya did good!!)
- Jane

The one we are talking over is the Grant on Bush St.
Thanks for the info :)

P.S. - if there are any hikers in the group that is coming early/staying late, on a clear day, a drive up Mt. Tam (Tamalpias)...parking in a lot close to but not at the summit, and then walking on up to the top to the lodge there is truly breathtaking. They say you can see 7 counties, and I believe them. The Marin Headlands are pretty amazing as well. And think about taking the ferry across to Sausalito, sitting in one of the restaurants along the water and admiring San Francisco from a distance. When the weather is good, the views as you skim across the water are wonderful.

In Golden Gate Park: I apologize that our "bandshell" area is under construction (the new DeYoung Museum is scheduled to open in the fall). But that still leaves Stow Lake (rent a paddle boat)...and the Japanese Tea Garden...and the Conservatory of Flowers (big ol' glass building that was rebuilt recently after being nearly destroyed by high winds a few years back)...and the Arboritum if you're into native (and other) plants and feel like walking around, then maybe picnicing on the grass (or going up into the Inner Sunset neighborhood for lunch). Let's see...Chinatown of course. Be sure to walk up Sacramento St. off of Grant to Waverly Place to see the oldest buildings that have not been turned into stores. Japantown is really nothing. It was a renovation a couple of decades ago, so has no historic interest at all.
Hip and Happening: Valencia Street in the Mission District and Lower Haight Street (at Fillmore)...art galleries, clothing, cafes and restaurants...the "young" set.
A great afternoon is to get to Aquatic Park and start walking along the waterfront. Takes you past Fisherman's Wharf...Pier 39 (shopping)...Pier 23 (funky restaurant, good food, patio)...The Ferry Building and markets (A-1 renovation a year or so ago)...down to Pac Bell Park (go Giants!). From the ball park you can catch the N-Judah street car (which costs $1.25 now) and head back up Market Street to the Powell Street Station and walk a few very busy and fun blocks back to your hotel.
Can you tell how much I love and enjoy this city????
- Jane

Thanks Jday! That afternoon along the waterfront and back sounds great :)

JDay... you are awesome!!! I'm printing this thread and taking it with me for reference!!!

Thank you!!!

This is just awesome! Getting more and more excited :D

I think once we get the hotel squared away we should start planning a group dinner or something for Friday when we will all be there and can meet up with others not staying at the same hotels and members who live there:)

Sounds like a plan! :) I can't wait...

I live very close to SF so are there any plans yet for the G2G? I am so dissapointed the conference got cancelled that sucks!!!!!!!!!

I live in Northern Cali and if you all haven't booked yet, here's my favorite best-kept-secret hotel:

The Holiday Inn on Kearny St (not the other Holiday Inns in SF).

It's not "charming," but every room has a spectacular view of the city or the Bay, and you can walk safely a block or two to Chinatown, North Beach (the great beatnik-Italian neighborhood) or the financial district. It's quiet and very clean, the rooms are big and around $130/night if you book online.

More info:
DOWNTOWN & SPA SAN FRANCISCO
750 KEARNY STREET
SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94108
Tel: 1-415-433-6600

The Grant Hotel is also cool, very hip lobby, though I think the rooms are much smaller.

ps. I would love to hook up for dinner on Friday!!!

I just called the hotel and they say they have very few rooms open for the week of the 19th-26th. i know not everyone is staying for that long but if we are going to try to stay together we need to get our reservations in ASAP...i hopefully will talk to Irish tomorrow and do our room...the cost 65$/night plus tax...that is for a room with 2 double beds. the phone # is 415-421-7540. the lady that answered tonight didn't speak english very well.........so......hopefully i got that info correct.........

let me know........maybe if i don't have to do it with my card i can book us all a room that needs one.........i really don't want to be responsible though......lol

http://www.granthotel.net/

We got our rooms booked at The Grant on Bush St.
$65 plus tx per night (2 or 3 people per room is ok)

Got our rooms :) woo woo its official!

It would be awesome if everyone else wanted to stay there too! If not we will still get together

Does anyone have plans for this weekend or is everyone just hanging out...my friend and I live close to SF and I can just stay home...I also visit my bear Saturday mornings so now I wont be missing that either ; )

whoo hoo...can't wait to meet ya!!! i'm glad we've finally gotten the rooms taken care of.........

Can somebody tell me what's going on here? Last thing I knew there was a PTO conference happening in San Francisco in April. Now...in yesterday's mail...I got a money order refunding my money...no note, no nothing.
HELP!!
- Jane

You must not have seen the thread... which has apparently been removed. The conference has been cancelled because only a handful of people sent money, so it's gone from a conference to a get-together since some people, like me, bought their airline tickets already. That's why we're all scrambling for hotel information. A group of us, I don't know how many, will still be there, meet up for dinner, go walk the Golden Gate Bridge, hang out, chill out, make new friends, renew old friendships...

yeah JDay we took your advice and booked into the Grant Hotel on Bush...Me Irisheyes, and Californiasunshine.....and a friend of mine....we (me irish and my friend will be staying from April 19th-april26.....Cali will be there for the weekend....) come join us.............

Thanks for clearing this up for me you guys. I was off line for less than a week, but that must have been the few days that the notice was posted. Now I know where you are...so you'd better keep me in the loop for that evening that we all get together for dinner!! And if I can help any, just let me know.
Thanks again -
- Jane

I just called....can't get a room :(

Awwwwww man that sucks :(

I would love to get together with you guys too but since I live so close can you post about when you are getting together and where and we can meet up...thanks!

irisheyes is bringing her computer so we can contact you if you want to meet us on friday night...i think that is when we will all try to get together....

Sounds great, I hope I can meet up with you guys...who all is going anyways?? Which people from our Federal forum????

hummmm...don't know who is from the federal forum...i don't keep up with who is where.... my son is headed for the federal prison..so i HAVE posted on there before but i don't know who else is coming from there.....keep in touch....OK????

My boyfriend is about to most likely go to Federal prison we took it to trial got a hung jury and they had a mistrial and now the AUSA brought on another charge in the superciding indictment....uhhhh. So it looks like a plea bargain may be better. I like your quote however we have a FPD and she is AWESOME but the cops corrupted the investigation so it is frustrating.....

Okay... it's official, I have a roof over my head... will be at the Best Western Tuscan on Fisherman's Wharf from Wednesday to Sunday... :)

wooo hoooo.. its shaping up!!

Slainte,Have you ever been to SF? You will love the wharf area :)

I dont know what everyone is planning but I was thinking (hoping) we could all get together Friday at some point and then maybe do the whole waterfront walk that Jday decribed on the previous page on Sat. or something fun that we could all do together Sat. (Gotta hang with everyone and get pictures!! )

Slainte,Have you ever been to SF? You will love the wharf area :)

I dont know what everyone is planning but I was thinking (hoping) we could all get together Friday at some point and then maybe do the whole waterfront walk that Jday decribed on the previous page on Sat. or something fun that we could all do together Sat. (Gotta hang with everyone and get pictures!! )

Nope, never been... first trip to Cali actually :) I figure anywhere near water is the place for me! :D

Friday or Saturday sounds good... I think I may venture over to the zoo on Wednesday or Thursday... I understand they have polar bears there and I wanna see 'em!!! :D

That sounds fun I hope we can get to all finally meet...does anyone know if Fed-X is going? I would love to meet him!!!!

All squared away.. got my room for Sunday night and I'm good to go!! REALLY looking forward to this ladies!

YES!!!!!

Woohooo, look out San Francisco!!!!

Only Sunday night??? You'll be in SF before then though yes? I'll be leaving early Sunday but HAVE to meet you and give ya some stuff I've been keeping for ya too!

Yup Cali... I'm coming Friday and leaving Monday.. I just needed to find a room for Sunday night...sharing with others on Fri and Sat ;)

Don't you DARE all get together for dinner and not let me know when and where!!!! I need to put some faces to these names!
Can't WAIT to meet you all!
- Jane

LOL, J....here's a face to go with the name :D (and we will definitely be meeting to break bread!)

Friday April 22nd...dinner with the PTO party...now in INK in my calendar!
- Jane

LOL - half face and half tongue!!!
Am sooooo looking forward to seeing that face in person!
- Jane

Do we know a restraunt yet?????

Irish Is That Tongue Pierced????

Hey gang what do you want to do? Dinner and hanging out on Friday? A group day saturday? both? or ????

I dont know what everyones plans are and/or where everyone is staying so don't want to be stepping on toes but I KNOW we ALL have to get together that weekend :)


Jday your the expert what should we do,where should we go?

Can you think of good places for a G2G Friday eve for dinner? I was thinking the wharf area but I don't know.Are there big casual style restuarants anywhere centrally located that could accomadate us on a Friday night

No....just really red from eating cinnamon candy that day ;)

Before I even look back at the posts I am gonna take a guess at that picture

Its A SPREE tongue

Hi all - This is something I just sent to Samiam referring to the question of to buy or not to buy a City Pass...and thought I'd copy you all in case it's useful info for others of you.
- Jane

Confusing, isn't it!!!
Well, a one week Muni pass (for all buses and street cars except the cable car - which costs an extra $2) unlimited riding...and you can buy one at a store very close to your hotel...costs $12 The regular fare is $1.25 when you get on, and includes 2 hrs of on-off passes; senior fare (65 and over) is 35 cents a ride.
The Exploratorium costs $12 to get in...very much a kid oriented place.
A one-hour bay cruise on the Blue and Gold Fleet that they include in that City Pass costs $19 and does NOT include Alcatraz. If you're planning on going on the 3-hour Alcatraz tour, the fare (boat plus admission) is $16 for the audio tour, and $11.50 for the non-audio tour.
The Legion of Honor (museum), located way out in Golden Gate Park, is $8
Modern Art Museum (MOMA) is $10
Asian Art Museum is $10
Steinhart Aquarium, which is building a new home in Golden Gate Park, is in a temporary location at 875 Howard Street (at 4th...right downtown and very easy to get to) and they have a Thursday night special - open 5 - 9 - have live music and cocktails, and the admission for everyone is $5 (www.calacademy.org)
Everything has a senior/disabled discount.
So basically, if you bought a one-week Muni pass for $12 - go to Alcatraz for $16 - go to the Museum of Modern Art (which is right downtown) for $10 and to the Aquarium on Thursday evening (4/21) for $5...
you'll have spent $43 and gotten Alcatraz but not the Legion of Honor or the Asian Art Museum or the Exploratorium.
I guess it really depends on what you want to do while you're here!
Hope this helps!
- Jane

Jane, you are a wonder!!! Thank you SO MUCH for all of this information!!!

Can't seem to find a way to get to the last post...

Looks like we've "lost" 4 pages of posts...hmmmmmm

http://www.prisontalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=110362

Is this the thread you are looking for JDay?

Thanks Jday :)

Any ideas on a place we can all meet up Friday?

There is something you guys who haven't been to SF yet need to see at the pier,I wanna show you LOL Its funny (Jday does "bush man" mean anything to you?)
Maybe we can spend Saturday along the water?
Just a thought

Anyone have any good ideas for when and where to meet up post em here :)

Here's my suggestion for the restaurant for our group get-together: Delancey Street. The Delancey Street Foundation provides training in both job and life skills to ex-felons and drug addicts. (I think they may have even started the "tough love" concept!) They have a moving company, an executive "retrieval" group...and an excellent restaurant in our "South Beach/China Beach" area...the renovated area that runs along the Embarcadero from the Ferry Building on down the Bay Side (vs. the Pacific Ocean side, which is another story: see Pier 39, Aquatic Park, the Wharf, etc.) - and which also includes PacBell Park. The restaurant is great...the service is amazing...the prices are mid-range...and it seems extremely appropriate for our group! We'll need reservations for sure. Friday night? How many?

...and the Bush Man! hahahaha! You are in for a treat!
- Jane

Thanks, Cali...a week ago there were no threads here...now there are two!! Here's a copy of what I just posted on the "other" SF get-together thread!

Here's my suggestion for the restaurant for our group get-together: Delancey Street. The Delancey Street Foundation provides training in both job and life skills to ex-felons and drug addicts. (I think they may have even started the "tough love" concept!) They have a moving company, an executive "retrieval" group...and an excellent restaurant in our "South Beach/China Beach" area...the renovated area that runs along the Embarcadero from the Ferry Building on down the Bay Side (vs. the Pacific Ocean side, which is another story: see Pier 39, Aquatic Park, the Wharf, etc.) - and which also includes PacBell Park. The restaurant is great...the service is amazing...the prices are mid-range...and it seems extremely appropriate for our group! We'll need reservations for sure. Friday night? How many?

...and the Bush Man! hahahaha! You are in for a treat!
- Jane

What a perfect place for us!!!

Let's see... you, me, MrsD, Cali, Irisheyes, samiam, samiam's friend... will Homiegirl be joining us? Who am I forgetting?

I am going to try my absolute best....if I come one of my friends btrodriguez will be joining me also!

Is Stacywars coming with Mrs D??

I know there are a few more folks in that area that might be able to make it for dinner maybe we should post a thread and see then make reservations?????

I think dinner and Alkatraz would be fun for a day...the delancey house sounds great for dinner. Right up our alley...in fact we looked at that place for my man I think a while back. Anyways, I hope I can make it and I have two possible friends that may come with me. Just let me know exact dates and times and I will be sure to give u a definite answert!!!!!!!

JDay came up with this great place for us to meet for dinner! :clap:

We'll have to make reservations so please post here only if you are able to join us!!

Here's my suggestion for the restaurant for our group get-together: Delancey Street. The Delancey Street Foundation provides training in both job and life skills to ex-felons and drug addicts. (I think they may have even started the "tough love" concept!) They have a moving company, an executive "retrieval" group...and an excellent restaurant in our "South Beach/China Beach" area...the renovated area that runs along the Embarcadero from the Ferry Building on down the Bay Side (vs. the Pacific Ocean side, which is another story: see Pier 39, Aquatic Park, the Wharf, etc.) - and which also includes PacBell Park. The restaurant is great...the service is amazing...the prices are mid-range...and it seems extremely appropriate for our group! We'll need reservations for sure. Friday night? How many?
Okay, ME! :)

I know there are a few more folks in that area that might be able to make it for dinner maybe we should post a thread and see then make reservations?????
Done :)

http://www.prisontalk.com/forums/showthread.php?p=1076164

What night????????? the date.....

Count me in....do a Google search for Delancey Street, and you will get some great reviews for the restaurant! JDay, you're a sweetie!

What time are we eating? *getting napkin for lap*

What night????????? the date.....


From the title, I would say Friday, April 22nd......

Phil

Yes Friday April 22

Count me in!

Yea I didnt read the title...sorry

Count me in :)

pick me, pick me!!!

What time did you say?

I'm in!!!
Let's say reservations for 7 o'clock? (It will still be gloriously light out, and if you feel like walking along the Embarcadero for part of the way there, it would be loverly.)
- Jane

Yippee! It's a date :)

7pm.....I'll be there along with my friend ........see you all then!!!

Slainte I'm going to post this in the Ca. forum to see if we get anymore guests to join us then maybe in a few days we can make reservations?

Jday do you think waiting a few more days will be ok for reservations or should we make them now just overshoot our # then call them if we have less?

I think we're good to wait until next week to make reservations...no later than the 8th should give us plenty of time.
Hurrah!!
- Jane

Hey all, Can I join you. I live about 20 minutes from SF so I could meet you down there.

Absolutly CG :) The more the merrier!!

We will be meeting for dinner on Friday the 22nd if you would like to join us please post here http://www.prisontalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=115350

Wooo-hooooo!!! The more the merrier! This is gonna be SOOOOO much fun!!! :thumbsup:

Slainte I'm going to post this in the Ca. forum to see if we get anymore guests to join us then maybe in a few days we can make reservations?

Jday do you think waiting a few more days will be ok for reservations or should we make them now just overshoot our # then call them if we have less?

Thanks for posting this thread in the CA forum. Count me in I will definitely be there. I will be driving up from San Jose so if anyone needs a ride let me know. I'm so excited to meet you all. This will be my 1st PTO gathering! Will we all be meeting at the restaurant or are we going to meet up somewhere else?:thumbsup:

Yeah! Glad your coming Bobbilu :)

I think meeting at the restuarant but I'm not sure,most of us will be there all weekend or longer so before dinner would work as well.Guess we can figure out all the details when it gets closer!

You guys don't know how much I NEED this! It will be great for me to be around all the people who have helped me so much through this rough spot on line in person!! Lots of hugs all around :) I'm looking forward to it!

I don't know if my plane lands in time to meet yall at 7. I'm gonna check and get back to ya. Oh I can't wait to meet everybody!

I am about 98% sure I will be there...I may be in San Jose at my homegirl's house so maybe we can drive together bobbilu???????

I am about 98% sure I will be there...I may be in San Jose at my homegirl's house so maybe we can drive together bobbilu???????

Yeah, I totally wouldn't mind. Just let me know in advance.

I was just wondering if anyone had an idea how much it would cost me to get from the airport to the hotel??? I can rent a car for $60 so I'm wondering if it just wouldn't be cheaper to pick up a car rather than use other transportation.

Unless the hotel has a shuttle, I've read on some sites that a cab could run $30-50. There's public transportation... the BART... but who wants to lug around suitcases??

Don't forget to figure in parking too... it ain't cheap!

Here's a link that might help - oh, and a shuttle bus to where I'm staying near Fisherman's Wharf is $15 each way according to Best Western's web site.

http://www.airwise.com/airports/us/SFO/SFOtran1.html

thats what I figured.... since I'm just coming for the weekend I'll only have my suitcase and computer case so I could suffer the BART ;) The hotel has discounted parking so I guess I'll spend some time trying to figure out what my best bet would be.

cysreese will possibly be joining us all well depending on her work schedule :)

At last count I believe so far it is:

Slainte
Mrs D
Jday
Myself
Irish
Samiam plus friend
Sunnie
Bobbilou
Homiegirl plus friend
Cyreese (possibly)
Divinelove


anyone I'm forgetting?

Come on gang I know there are more Northern Cali people out there :)

EeeeeeHA!
Gonna have us a PARTY!!

JDay, is there a "dress code"... I mean are jeans okay or find something better? I'm just thinking about what to pack... thanks!

Yes, I'll attend.

About that "dress code"...San Francisco is a pretty casual city, but not completely. For Delancey Street restaurant on a Friday night, I'd say you'd be okay in jeans, but with a pretty top and shoes (vs. tennies). On Friday and/or Saturday nights out I usually wear "the uniform"...black pants, slightly dressy blouse or sweater, black slides with a small heel (unless we're walking some, in which case I wear flats). (Also, you can't miss with all black and a slightly flashy necklace, or a pretty scarf.)
Hope that helps!
And I'm going to go ahead and make reservations for 12 for Friday the 22nd at 7:30...and then we can change what we need to, but at least we'll be "in" with that!
Hooray!!
- Jane

Jday maybe you should make it for 16 instead? I count 15 while some are only possibles we could at least down grade our party easier then upgrading ya think?



BTW thank you for all the info and making reservations :thumbsup: :thumbsup:

You got it...16 it is!
- Jane

Tickets need to be purchased in advance... and it's $16 per ticket. The tour takes 3-4 hours too. I'm thinking that Saturday might be the best, where as everyone should be in town by then, though the departure times listed below are also available on Friday and Sunday as well.

Note (from their website)
This is a National Park with a tightly controlled visitor capacity, therefore all sales are final. The National Park pass is not applicable to the Alcatraz tour. No refunds, exchanges or cancellations. 14 ticket maximum per household within a 30 day period. All ticket orders of 7 up to 14 will be held at will call. All members of party must be present to claim tickets one hour prior to the departure time.

Also note: Access: SEAT (Sustainable Easy Access Transport) is available for wheelchair users and visitors with a mobility need who are unable to walk
up the quarter-mile, 12% grade hill. Children under 14 must be escorted by an adult.
Only service dogs allowed. No bicycles or scooters allowed on island.


04/23/05

DEPARTS PIER 41 GATE #2
DEPARTURE TIME 9:30AM


DEPARTURE TIME 10:15AM


DEPARTURE TIME 10:45AM


DEPARTURE TIME 11:15AM


DEPARTURE TIME 11:45AM


DEPARTURE TIME 12:15PM

DEPARTURE TIME 12:45PM
DEPARTURE TIME 1:15PM


DEPARTURE TIME 1:45PM


Ferry's depart Alcatraz every half-hour, so if we signed up on for the 9:30 ferry, we should be done in time to take the 12:45 or 1:15 p.m. ferry back.


Now, we can all buy our tickets individually from the website:


http://www.blueandgoldfleet.com/alcatraz/alcatraz-day-tour


OR, I'm willing to buy them all at once and we get them at the will-call window, and you gals can pay me back... if that's the case, I need a head count and a time... preferably by this Thursday p.m. so I can order them on Friday (everything I've read suggest buying them a couple weeks in advance.)


So ladies... who joining me... and when... my preference is the earlier the better, so we can do other stuff either together or on our own and not have the day broken up... I'm flexible on the day...

I'd love to go, I'm not sure of the walking though. I'm walking every day here at home so I HOPE I can trek a 1/4 of a mile without having a problem by then ;) I just don't want to spoil it for everyone else if they have to wait for granny to catch up ;)

Is it in Michigan....??? Sorry I'm from Canada :) But I would love to take that tour!

No Alcatraz is in California.

I'd love to go, I'm not sure of the walking though. I'm walking every day here at home so I HOPE I can trek a 1/4 of a mile without having a problem by then ;) I just don't want to spoil it for everyone else if they have to wait for granny to catch up ;)

Just an FYI.. I did this tour about 6 years ago and it was GREAT!!!! I wasn't in the best of shape at the time (heck, I was wayyyy out of shape) and at first was a little concerned about the walk up the hill.. but you can take your time to do it and it is not that hard....

Thanks Lisa! I'll definitely TRY it ;)

Oh haha....I didn't think so but when you said you were going, I just figured it must be closer by....lol

Wouldn't mind visiting Alcatraz or Cali!!!!

I'm up for this, most definitely!

Saturday would be perfect, and the 9:30 ferry sounds great ;)
Let me know if you need me to send out a check after the head count...

Would love to go :) I hope,hope,hope they allow cameras! PTO at Alcatraz! Yeehaw!

If it is ok with you maybe you could buy them all at once and I'll send ya a check or give you the $ Friday at dinner


Mrs D we wouldn't mind waiting for ya at all if we had too! Now are you guys gonna hold my hand if I get sea sick? LOL

I hope,hope,hope they allow cameras!

Yes they do. :) Alcatraz is not a DOC prison. You also don't need to go with a see through purse :D

Phil :p

LMAO at Phil!! Thanks o wise one :)

It's official...we've got confirmed reservations for 16 for Friday, April 22 at 7:30 at Delancey Street!
- Jane

Wooo-hooooooo!!! :yay:

Thanks so much JDay!!! You :rock:

I can't wait to finally meet all of you. Does anyone know where I can see the menu for this restaurant???? I'm a very picky eater. :eek:

:cool: Looks like there's no permanent menu.

Delancey Street Restaurant

600 Embarcadero Street
San Francisco, California 94107 ph: 415.512.5179


Eating at this place will do more than satisfy your hunger. Staffed by residents of the Delancey Street, a halfway house run by the Delancey Street Foundation, the menu changes every day, so you won't get bored no matter how often you go, but you may not get to repeat a favorite dish either. The cuisine is ethnic-inspired American, and, when available, order any of the Greek dishes or the spit-roasted half chicken. The restaurant is right on the Embarcadero, and it has lovely views of the Bay and the Bay Bridge Delancey Street is an upscale restaurant that serves guests an ethnic American and Mediterranean menu. Expect the average entrée to cost between $8 and $12, and go dressed casual.

Atmosphere: Table talk is no problem here - noise level is unobtrusive.

More Reasons to Go: Delancey Street is appropriate (if not ideal) for groups. When weather permits, enjoy seating outside on the patio.

Eating & Drinking: Open for lunch and dinner. There's a weekend brunch.A full selection of alcoholic beverages are served. You'll find that there a seated bar inside.

Details to Note: Reservations are suggested. Entrances and walkways are wheelchair friendly. Children are welcome. The restaurant stays open late. Parking has been arranged for customers.

Ways to Pay: Cash, MasterCard, Visa and American Express

Hours of Operation: LUNCH: and DINNER: Tue-Sun

Thanks Tuco :)

Awesome! It's a date!! YIPPEE!

I will not be able to make dinner at Delancy's but would love to do Alcatraz. How many people from dinner will be joining? and what time?

That's what we're trying to determine here... I'd say we're looking at the 9:30 a.m. ferry Saturday at the moment... means we have to be at the pier for 8:30 from what I've read...

9:30 am sounds good.

I am sooooooo looking forward to this :) 9:30 works for me too

I bet Samiam and her friend would like to come I'll have Irish get in touch with her

Hey JDay a quick question.Are the reservations there like a lot of other places for large parties where they only do one bill for the entire party? If so everyone needs to make sure they bring CASH as it is much easier to split the bill with cash vs' some cash,some credit.

Hey I'm going to see if I can get a sitter. I totally want to go, and I haven't been out without my daughter in a lonnnnnggggg time! So let me see what I can do, and I'll get back to you guys!:D

Hey I'm going to see if I can get a sitter. I totally want to go, and I haven't been out without my daughter in a lonnnnnggggg time! So let me see what I can do, and I'll get back to you guys!:D


Yeah try to go girl, we'd love to meet you. I'll even offer to give you a ride, and you don't even have to pay for gas! :thumbsup: LOL

anyone heading down from sacramento, marysville, chico area ????

Hi Ladies,

You will have to count me out on this one I have to be at work at midnight and I live by Reno, Nv so I would be cutting it close. You all have a blast and please do share the experience with the rest of us. :)

count josie and I in....we had planned on doing the tour just hadn't figured out which day...........

Slatine.....buy ours too and we'll pay you back at dinner

thanks

Okay... so as of right now it looks like I'm ordering 7 tickets for Saturday, 9:30 a.m. ferry.

MrsD
Irisheyes66
California Sunshine
CG119
Samiam
Josie
and me

I'll be ordering them tomorrow... Friday, April 8, sometime in the morning.

awesome Jess... want me to send you the $$ now??

Is it too late to count me back in, I found a way to reschedule my schedule. Please let me know. I know you already made reservations, so I'll understand.

Thanks, see ya there!!!

CG119 I think it will be ok.I only count 14 for sures so I think we will be fine,even if there are a few more we may be able to add to the reservation?

Jday what do ya think?

Slainte I am counting this right? LOL :)

Hey Everyone!

I'm flying out on Thursday instead of Friday ;) I already have my room secured for Thursday night too! I'll be room hopping all weekend but it won't be too bad!

Two weeks from today ladies!! ITs going to be awesome!

awesome Jess... want me to send you the $$ now??
Thanks, but I can collect at dinner, or for anyone who's not at dinner, Saturday a.m. :)

Wooooo-hooooooooooo!!!! I am SO psyched for this G2G!!! :yay:

Cali, yup I counted 14, so there's room for CG119! :)

Me too Slainte me too :) It's going to do me a world of good and it will be awesome to meet you all and go to Alcatraz something I have always wanted to do but never have even though I'm only 2 hours away!

Hee Hee and since we will be on the waterfront already I get to show ya guys something funny and somewhat of a "landmark" of San Francisco if ya haven't seen it yet already by Sat. that is :D :idea:

:yay: :thumbsup:

Dang Mrs D you scared me!!!! Thank goodness your still coming!

See ya Friday at dinner :) :) :)

Here's some further info, quoted directly from my newly-purchased San Francisco for Dummies book: :D

From SFO airport -

"Taxis line up for passengers at the center island outside the lower level of the airport. The 14-mile trip to Union Square takes 20 to 30 minutes or so, depending on traffic, and should cost around $37 plus tip.

If you're patient enough to wait 10 to 20 minutes for he one heading to your neighborhood, shuttle vans offer door-to-door service from the airport. However, the shuttle may make up to three stops before it's your turn to exit. You can find the shuttles by leaving the airport from the upper level and heading to the center island outide the ticket counter nearest you. A guide will direct you. Look for exact shuttle fares posted throughout the terminals; most charge between $12 and $14. Super Shuttle (415-558-8500 www.supershuttle.com (http://www.supershuttle.com)) is a favorite. You don't need to make advance reservations.

Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) now connects travelers from the airport to San Francisco, the East Bay, and the Millbrae Cal Train Station, a few miles south of the airport. BART fares into San Francisco are $4.95. From Millbrae, you can board Cal Train to the depot at Fourth and King streets in San Francisco. The fair is a bargain at $3 for adults and $1.50 for children and seniors, and the ride takes under 30 minutes. For the train schedule, go to www.transitinfo.org (http://www.transitinfo.org) or call 650-817-1717. BART airport stations are located on level 3 of the international terminal, or you can take the automated AirTrain to the Garage G/BART Station stop from the domestic terminals.

If you're renting a car, the free AirTrain will transport you to the building where all the counters and cars are located. Catch the AirTrain on level 5 in any of the domestic terminal garages. If you drive yourself into town, follow the airport signs to Highway 101 North and Highway 280. Stay toward the left, so you don't end up on 280. If you want to go to Union Square, exit 101 North at Fourth Street. Traffic is manageable until rush hour, from 3 to 7 p.m."

how do you then get to the prison from the hotel? I was thinking about all this stuff too.

Mrsdragon, what date will you be arriving and leaving San Francisco? The reason I am asking is because I know a very cheap rent-a-car place that has their cheapest car at $11.50 per day depending on the day.

Thanks Jess! I'm not sure WHAT I'll do, but the taxi sounds like the best bet. I might wait for a van,but I'm just leary of getting off at the wrong place and getting lost ;)

I'm coming in on Thursday the 21st, leaving Monday the 25th. I can get a car for $60 but then I'd have to pay for parking so I think the taxi or van would be cheaper in the long run. I don't plan on driving anywhere once I get there.

THANKS anyway!

MrsDragon-

Taking a taxi is probably the fastest way to get from the airport to your hotel, but it is the most expensive.
If you take the Super Shuttle, they will drop you off right at the hotel, so you shouldn't get lost ;) , but if your luck is like mine, yours will be the last drop off. However, if you dont mind that, it could be a good opportunity to get a little 'sight seeing' in while they are delivering the other people to their destinations:D .
BART is actually pretty convenient also, the Airport service is fairly new, and I think it is usually pretty empty at that point, so you shouldn't have an issue getting a seat. However, once you get into the city, you will still need to get to your hotel. I don't know where you are staying, but BART basically runs along Market St., so unless you are staying downtown, you will still need to use one of these other transportation options.
I would not recommend renting a car, parking in San Francisco is a nightmare! :eek: I am pretty sure the hotel will charge you a fee per day to park the car there, and when you do go somewhere, you will have to pay to park/valet the car there or spend precious time circling the block looking for a parking space. Cabs are your best bet, there are tons of them so it's pretty easy to get one, or you could always have the hotel, restaurant etc. call one for you.
I hope this helps, please let me know if you have any specific questions, and I will try to answer them if I can.
Pooh'sPooh:)

Okay... 7 tickets have been purchased for the people listed in my previous post :)

We need to pick them up at Pier 41 at the advance ticket window for the Blue and Gold Fleet, so we ALL need to be there at about 8:30 (the nice lady said the window opens at 8:45).

The nice lady also said we just squeaked in as the ferry is almost full!

Great, Hey Bob-bi-lu is there room in your car or can I follow you up there. I live in RWC, it's on the way. I don't like going to places I am not familiar with by my self. Just let me know. Thanks again!!

Whoo Hoo...great Jess...........can't wait for another thrilling tour!!!

What time do you land on Thursday????

I land at 7:55 PM. I figured the extra night will give me a change to rest up for all the excitement ;)

Thanks! Since I'm flying in at 8 pm, I think I'll take a cab to the hotel so I get there by 9. I've already worked the expense into my budget ;)

Hey all, a co-worker went to Alcratraz this past weekend and said the audio tour is 10.00 extra. I checked out the website used to purchase the tickets, and it said it was included for the 16.00 price. He ended up paying 26.00 for his tickets. Something to keep in mind. Maybe Slainte you could call to verify. From what I understand they don't have tour guides anymore. Just thought I'd post.

I called Blue and Gold, who I purchased the tickets from and they confirmed that the $16 includes the ferry and the audio tour. The woman said he must have gotten his tickets through a broker.

Thanks for the heads up! :)

OK, thanks for checking. I'll let him know he got ripped off!! LOL

Great, Hey Bob-bi-lu is there room in your car or can I follow you up there. I live in RWC, it's on the way. I don't like going to places I am not familiar with by my self. Just let me know. Thanks again!!

I totally don't mind girl, just let me know ahead of time k....PM me!

i wanna go....

Thanks bob-bi-lu, I'll pm you next week. Thanks again.

The more the merrier! If we really exceed the 16, we'll just have them seat us in one of their private rooms...no problem! So everyone just make sure you let Slainte know if you're coming, and she'll give me a final count by the 15th. (you'll notice how cleverly I delegated there!!)
Can't wait to see you ALL -
- Jane

regis the more the merrier as Jday said :) Just let us know in this thread if you are coming for sure


Looking forward to it :) a little over a week away! Yippee!!

Yes, I'll be there. I had previously confirmed on another post.

As of now...

JDay
Irisheyes66
California Sunshine
Sunnie
mrsdragon
divinelove
samiam158 + 1
Bob-bi-lu
Homiegirl
information20
CG119
Slainte

... are definates...

Will rebekah, jimmy'sbaby and regissweetness be joining us???

Count me in. I will force my sister in law to babysit! I just hope I don't get lost! I always manage to find new sections of the city that I've never seen before!:D

I really would like go as well please let me know if it's not too late to add more and for Jimmys Baby i live in San jose as well if i'm not to late to go maybe we can follow eachother and get lost together lol one of should find our way

I think that will be fine if all of the above go plus you Arechigas girl that will be only 1 more then we made the reservations for I'm sure they can accomidate us

Looking forward to it :)

Packing.........Packing..........unpacking........ ..repacking..........DUH :rolleyes: 2 more days and we head for San Francisco.........It is SOOOOO exciting......but i do wonder why we are traveling across the USA to visit with most of us on the East Coast :D

Hopefully MrsD or someone else will have their computer..........i'm sure a good time will be had by all!!!!!!!


Can't wait to meet all of you.........

Irisheyes.......see you at the airport if I don't talk to you before!!!!

OMG - I don't know what to pack!! Heck, I don't even know how I'm getting to the airport yet! Suppose I should make that decision soon! :D

See ya all soon!!! :)

Jess

DID I give you my cell phone # just in case we want to get together before the others arrive??? i can't remember when you are coming in........i know when Mrs.D, Irish, Cali, are coming..........what about you????

YIPPEE!!!!!!!!! I can't wait :)

I don't know what to pack either and I'm only there for 2 days LOL


Bring a jacket everyone it gets chilly there esp on the water

So it's too late to order a ticket? Aww, I wanted to go.

COUNTDOWN!!! (Sure got to be this week in a hurry!) I still get 16 for the headcount for dinner this Friday at Delancey. Am I missing someone? Anybody need directions?
- Jane

divine, I just checked the website and they are sold out for the morning. They seem to have afternoon tours available.

www.blueandgoldfleet.com

Jday is it in walking distance from The Grant?

I am going to get yahoo directions from Sac. to the Grant but if you know them off the top of your head I'll take your too as I get soooooo confused driving down there! I got lost on Friday on my way home from the Fillmore!

For those of us going to SF just wanted to let you know that it is calling for rain Saturday and Sunday :( so bring a jacket and/or umbrella just in case!!!




Tuesday
Sunny
High: 63°
Low: 49°

Wed.
Sunny
High: 62°
Low: 49

Thur.
Mostly Sunny
High: 65°
Low: 49°

Friday

Partly Cloudy
High: 65°
Low: 51°


Sat.

Showers
High 60°F
Low 50°F


Sun.

Showers
High 55°F
Low 51°F

oh so far to drive ................. plus i'm a big fraidy cat to drive in the city. next time ya'll come up to my neck of the woods. good ole' butte county. we have CASINO's !!

anyone coming from sacramento?

Oh well, if I can't go with you guys I guess I'll sleep in late or go shopping. I'm really not a early morning person anyway. Is anything else going on Saturday that I could join in?

I have no idea... I'm guessing we'll all be together... are you coming to dinner Friday night? Even if it's a bit late with your flight and all?

Please add two more to the bunch... We have a surprise visitor and spouse who emailed me and would like to join us!

Mrsdragon, what date will you be arriving and leaving San Francisco? The reason I am asking is because I know a very cheap rent-a-car place that has their cheapest car at $11.50 per day depending on the day.


What is the name of the rental car company since I will be renting a car. I would like to check this out.
Thanks

Hi Cali - the mapquest directions are good - just a couple of thoughts to add...
1. the Bay Bridge into the city is always a mess. Once you get through the toll plaza, you need to keep to the right lane(s). The Fremont Street exit (on the right) comes up right after the bridge span, so you want to be over there by then. A benefit is that the right hand lane is always moving the best!
2. Fremont "becomes" Front, but to do that it crosses Market and angles to the right. Don't let that throw you! Pine is only one block past Market, so be in the left lane.
3. Pine is one way heading south through the city - and Bush is one way heading north through the city (both have timed lights, so are very popular thoroughfares)...so that's why you get the "turn left turn left" directions - so that you can go far enough on Pine to get one block over to Bush to head back a block to the hotel.
I really don't think you can get lost this time! (Although "getting lost" has always ended up being an adventure for me!)
See you in 2 days!!
- Jane

And to all...
you CAN walk to Delancey Street from the Grant Hotel, but it's about 15 blocks (some of them double sized), so figure 20-30 minutes, depending on how fast you walk. You'd walk 7 blocks straight down Bush to Market - turn left on Market and walk toward the Ferry Building for 4 blocks to Spear Street - turn right and walk 5 (long) blocks to the Embarcadero...and you'd be right in front of the restaurant. It's all either downhill or flat, so that part isn't a problem. On the way "home", once it's dark, I'd put you all on the N-Judah street car which runs right in front of the restaurant and would put you back on Market Street (you'd get off at the Montgomery Street station to walk back up to the hotel). The N-Judah (underground Metro stations on Market Street) is an alternate way to get to Delancey Street too.
REMEMBER: you can get a week-long "fastpass" - or a day-long pass - which will make getting on and off the buses and street cars easier. Otherwise, you need $1.25 in correct change.
- Jane

HEADCOUNT:
I've got 17 coming to Delancey Street Friday night at 7:30. (Make sure you're on this list so I can give the restaurant an accurate count! Also let me know if it turns out you are NOT able to come...thanks)

IrishEyes
CaliforniaSunshine
Sunnie
MrsDragon
divinelove
Samiam158 plus one
Bob-bi-lu
Homiegirl
information 20
CG119
Slainte
JHimmy'sbaby
ArechigasGirl
Surprise Guest
Surprise Guest
JDay (that's me!)

Can't wait to meet you all!!
- Jane

awesome!!! I'm packed except for the last minute things, getting more and more excited and am so so looking forward to meeting everyone!

Jday what about these directions they are what I printed from Yahoo

Harrison St exit on to Freemont
Freemont becomes Front
L on Pine
L on Mason
L on Bush

Do those work or are yours/mapquest better?


Woooo Hoooo looking forward to it and wondering who the "guests" are!!!!


Oh in case I forget to ask at dinner what is the best way from our hotel to get to the pier where our Alcatraz tour leaves from early Sat. morning?

Those are fine...the same as mine except they call it the "Harrison Street Exit" instead of the "Fremont Street Exit". Whichever one you come to once you get across the bridge span...take it! (I really think it says "Fremont"...) Then left (on Fremont) - cross Market - turns into Front - left on Pine - left on Mason - left on Bush. VOILA!!

Getting from hotel to Alcatraz Tour at Pier 41:
you can walk up Bush one block to Powell - hang a left and walk 18 blocks to the Embarcadero, which puts you right smack at the right place. (The view after about 3-4 blocks is amazing - out over Alcatraz to the Marin Headlands and beyond.)
or
you can walk one block up to Powell - hang a RIGHT - walk 6 blocks down Powell to Market and pick up an F Street car (runs downs the middle of Market Street, swings left at the Ferry building, runs up the Embarcadero) which will drop you off right where you need to be ($1.25 exact change needed - and don't forget to take your "proof of purchase" from the driver so you can ride free a couple of times) (antique cars run on this line...many from Europe...it's a great ride!)

In any case, give yourself an hour to get there...the line will be ferocious!
SEE YOU TOMORROW!
- Jane

OMG!!!! :yay::yay: one day away!!! ..

What are all you all wearing? I am off tomorrow I can't remember if alcatraz is tomorrow or this weekend, but i have the whole day free. I have to work this weekend, but off Monday, Tues, Wed. I am trying to get MOnday off. I don't know when you all are going back. ALSO My son, I might not have a baby sitter. and he might have to come join the ladies. Are kids allowed at Delancey's?

wish I could be there but I am saving all my travelling for my visit the next day :)
you all have a wonderful time... I wonder if I will see any of you in the visiting line on Sat?

Sunnie I'm wearing jeans boots and a black top and blazer I think
Delancys is tomorrow ( I don't know about kids but would imagine its ok?)
Alcatraz is Saturday
Cant wait to meet ya :)

Lifer wife may join us as well :)


Who's name is the reservation under?

hey everybody! I'm actually gonna try to get out of work early, but I still probably won't get there till about 8pm or so, I hope that's not to late. what is the reservation listed under?

I plan on being in San Fran around 3:00 ish I am so looking forward to meeting you all.

reservations at dinner are under "Jane" and/or "PTO" party of 18

A few days ago Jimmy developed a bunch of swelling around his neck. After going to the doctor, they said to give it a couple days to see if it goes down. They didn't know what caused it, or what it could be from. It's been 3 days and the swelling is getting worse, and affecting his eating, sleeping, physical self. Today he was sent back on an emergency referral...and they are sending him to a specialist this evening. I still hope to make the dinner, but I am not sure what the outcome of this doctors visit will mean for him. I need to wait for a phone call before leaving, and if they decide to take him to the hospital I will not be able to make it. Hopefully I will be there by 7:45. If I'm not, plan on me not attending. I really hope to go, but at the same time his health is very very important. Say a prayer that all is ok, and hopefully I'll see you all tonight. If not...I'm soo sorry and I hope to see you at the next event!:)

Keeping you and Jimmy in my thoughts... hope all turns out well!

We had a wonderful time at Delancy Street Restuarant on Friday night! It is a great restuarant with a great story behind it,it is staffed entirely by residents of the Delancy Street Foundation halfway house.The food was awesome,wait staff awesome,conversastion great, the company incredible and the wine was flowing thanks to Richard at PCO!


The guest list included Myself,Irisheyes,Mrs Dragon, Slainte, Sunnie, Jday, Information20 and hubby,Samiam, Josie, Bobbilou,Jimmysbaby,Lifer wife, Divenelove,CG119,Richard from PCO and his wife



Here are some of the pictures,more to follow in a second post as mine wouldn't all fit in one.There will be many more posted as the rest of the PTO gang posts theirs and the others find their way home this week so stay tuned for many more. :D


There will also be a link in Travel and Vacation later today with all of our photo's from Alcatraz and all the individual places we went and sites we saw.



#1 The Gang L-R Back Row: Richard's wife, Slainte, mrsdragon, JDay, California Sunshine
2nd Row: Jimmys baby, Divinelove, irisheyes66, CG119, Bobbilou, Lifer Wife, Samiam
Front row seated: Sunnie, Richard PCO and Josie

#2 Mrs D being bad and telling us to mind our own business LOL

#3 Jimmys baby and Bobbilou

#4 Lifer Wife and Cali

#5 Sunnie,Irisheyes and Cali

#6 Cali and Jimmys Baby

#7 Irisheyes huge appetizer LOL

#8 Irisheyes and Cali

OMG....In post 1 picture number 5 Sue and Lisa could pass as sisters. Look at those expressions and the way they both smiled. Are you sure you wernt seperated at birth :D

More

#1 Cali and Bobbilou

#2 Richard and wife,Divinelove and Slainte

#3 Cali and Jday

#4 Mrs Dragon

#5 Divinelove and Lifer wife

#6 The outside of Delancy Street Restuarant

#7 L to R Sunnie,Cali,Bobbiloue,CG119, Josie,Samiam,Irisheyes,Mrs D

Love the photos!!! You all look like you are having such a great time!

Great pictures! Thanks for sharing them!

Deb

Nice Pics!!!! Looks Like You All Had A Great Time!

How fun! I am glad to hear that everyone had such a great time!!! (also very jealous!)
:)

Alcatraz pics http://www.prisontalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=120813

Various SF pics http://www.prisontalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=120803




Many more to follow during the coming week!! I estimate there were 35 plus rolls of pictures taken!

I am glad ya'll had a good time!! Thanks for sharing and YES I am jealous.

ONE

Lisa, thanks for posting your pictures. I'll be posting the ones I took as well. It was great meeting all of you. I had a wonderful time. Oh BTW, I loved the picture of Irisheyes onions rings....that one's a classic. I can't wait to post ym photos. I still can't get over how great my banana split was at the restaurant!:thumbsup:

Whooo hoooooooo!!!

I have a question!! Why are all the name tags printed backwards????

JJT

Great pics Cali! Hey I edited the names in picture #1 in your first post because they were backwards from how the picture shows up on PTO....

Thanks Lys! When I scan stuff the writing in the pics show up backwards sometimes,JJT thats why they appear backwards they really were not!

Bobbi,I spelled your name wrong every time! DUH I'm sorry! It was so great meeting you,you are a DOLL :) and yes those deserts were something else yum yum!

Oh my goodness! All of you look SO LOVERLY!!!! I'm totally jealous that I didn't get to go!!! I know we've got some good looking members but WOW!!! I'm glad that you had a great time!

:yay: :yay: Great pictures , I am glad you all had fun :yay: :yay:

Looks like everyone is having a great time!!!!!! Love the blonde MrsD :)

Jenny
:D

Great pictures! Thank you so much for sharing them!

HUGS
Melissa

What beautiful pictures!! Looks like you all had an amazing time!!! You Cali girls are always having a BLAST!!! Thank you so much for sharing!!!!!! :D :thumbsup:

oh how cute those were!!!!!!! Why do I always turn out looking huge in pictures!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ARRRAGGHHHH YUK!You all look so great! Ok i'm going to try and attach mine!:)

:cool: So glad to hear you all had such a great time and obviously Richard and his wife were your special guests. The pics are great. They remind me of my days in the city by the Bay. I know how fun the city can be. Keep those pics coming.

Now you guys looked like you had an excellent time! :dance:

I loved the pics! :hee: You all looked FABUL