Seems like a bunch of us are starting to meet our extended family members. It's sooooooo great!! I was thinking what about an annual PTO day or weekend? Maybe we can plan it somewhere in the middle of the US,lol. A bunch of us are in the southeast but then there are others in Cali. Well now that my brain got a power surge I realized we are actually all over this country and some over seas. Ok Michelle, stop rambeling,lol.
What I'm getting at is maybe we could plan something. I think that since the PTO family began with a thought in Texas and it is generally based out of there it is only fair for it to be in Texas. I'm down to go and willing to organize the event, but need feed back first. I'm a good bargain hunter and am saure that we could get a group discount at hotels etc. What do you guys think? Maybe we can have it around the anniversary of when this heaven sent idea came to David? I know that money is an issue for most of us but if we plan it long in advance then maybe we can all have some time to save. Maybe it can even become a tradition? Let me know what you guys think.
Michelle

Well I think it's a great idea,but it might be hard(for me)toget out of Calif.When were you thinking about Michelle?

Count me in.... I am about as poor as they come... but with advanced warning would be MORE than willing to save up to get the chance to meet some more of my PTO fam.... :)

hey why not do it in amsterdam, thats more easy for soraya and me :)

Great idea Michelle!

bella: i suggested this to fed-ex when we got our little party here in nc planned, but never heard back (probably didn't want to think of something that massive), BUT, i am all for it and will be happy to help plan the event with you! i am all about such things and love to plan travels anywhere, so count me on on attendence and if you need a fellow planner, let me know! i think it would be wonderful! i know there are often hotels that give group rates for "conventions", and that's pretty much what this would be. let me know! *hugs*

I HAVE ALWAYS THOUGHT (AND STILL THINK) THIS IS A GREAT IDEA!! I WOULD ABSOLUTELY LOVE TO PARTICIPATE IN SUCH AN EVENT! WE COULD MAKE IT AN ANNUAL EVENT AND EACH YEAR WE COULD WELCOME THOSE IN OUR PTO FAMILY WHO HAVE MADE IT HOME THAT YEAR! COUNT ME IN ON THE PLANNING COMMITTEE!

Sounds like a good idea to me! As long as I have that advanced notice I should be able to be there! Plus I need me a little out of state vacation BADLY!!!

COunt me in too! I have wanted to do this since I joined this family....I am sure if we all brainstorm we could make it as easy as possible for all!

I am there too, just need enough advance notice so I can make plans for vacation at work. Something that might help with the expenses though, maybe many of us could share rooms and the expense. Get a hotel that has breakfast included in the room price and hey, like I do when I travel, get a coolor and pack food to save on eating out.

I've said before about what can be done. The planner(s) needs to work on group discounts on rooms and eating places and freebie/discout things to do in that area. Because this needs to be more then a "Hi/Bye" affare if people are going to pay the bucks too travel across country. Travel discounts (air/train/bus) would help too.

I AGREE BRAY- I THINK IT NEEDS TO BE A WELL PLANNED EVENT- I WOULD BE GLAD TO HELP WITH PLANNING BUT PROBABLY MAKES THE MOST SENSE FOR THOSE IN THE TEXAS AREA TO LOOK INTO LOCAL ACCOMODATIONS, EATING PLACES, ETC----MAYBE WE COULD START A THREAD ON THINGS WE WOULD LIKE TO DO AT THE ANNUAL MEETING AND START PIECING TOGETHER SOME KIND OF AN AGENDA--AND START THROWING OUT SOME POSSIBILITIES OF DATES- OF COURSE DAVID SHOULD SPEARHEAD THIS--AFTER ALL HE IS THE "FOUNDING FATHER" :)

I'm sorry for my lack of input on this previously. It is NOT out of disinterest. I think it is a wonderful idea. My only concern is the ability of everyone to get together and true interest. The "Interest" issue seems to be answered already. :) Now, I guess it is time to start looking into the planning of the event. Where would be the best place for everyone to meet? Yes, we do have a good number of members here in Texas, but we also have a large contingent from NC, CA, FL, etc.. So, where is the best place? I can say this, if it is to take place here in Texas, we have a pretty large house here it could be held at.. (4 bedroom in the main house, large cottage style apartment, dance hall type living room, etc. etc.. If we were to get blow-up mattress in addition to the spare mattresses we have in the remote garage, we could easily sleep 30+ people in the dance hall living room.. The breakfast area is a glassed in patio area with a brick patio that wraps around the back area.. There is room for probably 25 cars on the main driveway and then we own the lot next to the house which could accommodate another.. 20?
Just an idea... College Station is about an hour and a half North Northwest of Houston, and about 2.5 hours from Dallas.. 40 minutes to the West of Huntsville, TX. (Yes, T.D.C.J's home)
We have Lake Somerville 30 minutes away and Lake Bryan 15 minutes away. Lake Bryan has a huge pavilion and plenty of park type activities. In addition to that, I have a jetski we can ride, etc. Galveston is less than 2 hours from here (The Beach) etc.. This may not be an ideal meeting area but I wanted to offer it up for future plans nonetheless.

There is a lot to decide/plan to see this through but I know with all the determined minds we have here, we can do it.
I guess the questions that pop up off the top of my head are these:
1. When is the best time of year to hold this? Summer? What month?
2. What is the best location for everyone? No matter where it is held, a great majority of us are going to have to travel. We need to take into consideration who all is serious about making the trip and plan the location accordingly.
3. How long should it be for? A day, two, three?


Ok.. lets here from everyone else..

David

i'll chime in here, david....

length? probably a long weekend? friday-sunday or so?

timing? at least 6 months out to give everyone time to make travel plans, get time off work, kick pets to the curb (can you tell i'm mad at my dog?!?!), etc.

when? NOT summer if it's in texas, i don't want to shrivel into a prune! lol i would think maybe....february or march? a lot of things tend to slow down that time of year, so that may be a good time for folks....no holidays to worry about or whatnot.

...just my 2 cents.

:D

It has been mentioned, since TX is where this all started, should be the place for the event.

As when it should come about? Anytime where it doesn't get into the 100's or likely to rain for days.

With the amount of people that are truely active in here, what David has to offer just might fit the bill for the first time doing this? We might be hard pressed to get 30 or so that could make the trip?? As too, how long........that depends on how long the welcome mat is out! LOL (4 days??)

march sounds good to me- and i think a long weekend sounds good-3-4 days- I agree texas should be the meetng place, at least for the first one, then maybe we can move it each year to accomodate the most people so everyone has a chance to come-i will come wherever just let me know--and let me know what i can do to help-- would be great if we all had t-shirts by then--maybe we could plan it similar to a high school reunion set-up--we could have nametags with our pto avatars on them --maybe have a big cookout at some local park (help with this david) and maybe a meet and greet in david's dance hall type living room- do we want this to be completely a social event or do we want to include some more formal type events like speakers and presentations--i am all for whatever the majority decides

What a great offer Fed X. I suggest the other Texas people supply food and drinks. *Pot luck* style meals, and BBQ. There is no way you could supply refreshments for a large group nor should you try. People close could also bring extra beddings such as air mattreses, pillows for those that will have to fly in.

Set up transportation for those that need rides to and from airport. Although rental cars are pretty resonable.

I think the old saying of Ben Franklin's "Fish and guest start to stink after three days" holds pretty true. So I believe a three day weekend should be long enough.

Will the lot next door be ok for camper trailers or tents?

I suggest the meeting time in October just because it is the best time for the best Weather in Texas. Now is this October going to be too soon?

There are also some Texas Historical Sites to Tour for those interested in site seeing in that directions such as Washington on the Brazos.
Lots of nature wild flower drives.

I also trek around to Gardens (rose and herbs) in that area so I can show some very pretty sites with a rest stop for some Blue Bell IceCream. Got to get your Blue Bell ice cream fix.

How far is the trip to Livingston from your place in College Station? About 2 hours? Maybe we could do an impromptu protest at Pulunsky Correctional Center?

Well have I missed some stuff since I posted this,lol.
I definately agree that it should be in Texas, Home of both the yellow rose and PTO! I have planned some similar events and have no problem devising a schedule of events. Although any suggestions and help would be great. I agree that we should have a day at the park type thing. We can have some games like PIN THE TAIL ON THE WARDEN,lol. I also think a park day would be good since it's cost effective. As for how long, I agree that a long weekend is good. 3 days.
The time of the year makes no difference to me except I could not attend in Sept. (the jewish high holy days). Any other time I'm there. As for staying at your house David, I think it's a great idea and sounds really beautiful but how would it work for 30 people to shower etc.? Maybe those of us who can afford a cheap motel could stay at one close by and the others could stay in your home. This way there is no overcrowding and we are all close by. If you give me your zip code or the names of a few motels close by I'll make the calls and find out about group rates. I agree I would love to have teeshirts by then, but if we don't I already have another event in mind. Make your own PTO tee shirt! Depending on what games/events we have we may need some people to donate some stuff like paper, art supplies etc. As for the food thing I think we are all adults and should pay for our own food, it would be nice if everyone could bring something but even some of those in Texas are really far away.
What do you guys think about this...after we get the price of some motels, restaurants, devise an itinerary etc. we can come up with an amount that it would cost to come with it being all inclusive, like club med,lol. This way everything is pre paid; motel food events etc. Your only cost would be to get there. And with enough notice it would be easier to save for that too. I say if after any of the $ is left over it should go to the PTO site upkeep &/or emergency fund. Let me know what you all think.
I'll shut up now :)
Michelle

OK so I can't shut up,lol.
I was just thinking that this would also be a perfect time for Veronica to do some filming?

Whatever is decided, I'll help however I can. I am so excited! Hopefully the shirts and other things will be ready by the time of the mass PTO migration!

You can count me in! An yes, I think it should be in Texas as well. Those that live in IL. can meet me an we could drive down together in my van and we could take turns driving? What do the other Illinoisians think?

Hey... I am in for driving Michelle!! We can carpool!! :)

I AM DOWN TO GO WHERE EVER IF YOU ALL HAVE NOT NOTICED I LOVE TO DRIVE.. WE NEED TO THINK ABOUT FINDING A DROP IN CHILD CARE CENTER TOO. SO WE CAN FOCUS FOR A FEW HOURS AS ADULTS.. THAT WOULD HELP ME.

i love to drive, too, shortie! it's so relaxing!

great idea on the carpool thing, michelle! maybe all us nc folk could travel down together, too!

torrey, i'm afraid, for me, that this october would be too soon. :( however, if it works for everyone else, by all means, plan it!

*hugs*

well i can hook up with the rental cars for those of you who would want your own.. it is very reasonable..

I think the idea of Feb or March is good because that is usually when Spring Break is for the kids. As to drop in Day Care, I know that my girls would love to take time and do some sitting. maybe we could get the older kids to watch the younger ones for when us adults want some time alone. As for the T-shirts..... THAT IS DONE!!!!! I've got the design and I have already had some people asking for them. I will make a whole lot in different sizes to bring down when we do get together for those that don't have them by then.

I like the idea of a on the spot protest at Polunsky.

Joy

joy i agree with you on the march thing-for those of us with kids, spring break is generally that time-although i probably wuld not bring my kids b/c i would have to fly and the cost would be astronomical-october would not work for me-that is during basketball season and i have four girls who play-and is a very hectic time of year-plus i do not know if we could pull everything together that quickly--march is good also because tax refunds will have arrived!!! :) so maybe i would have a little $$--

i LOVE the protest at polunsky idea!!!!! what a show of force we would be!

Michelle...carpooling sounds pretty good to me! I don't mind driving!
All of everybodies ideas sound great! It would be so nice to see everyone!

I was thinking that a while back, like a cruise or something.

ok march sounds good not only spring break but tax time. I know the earned income credit is going to hit most of us.. :) that may help absorb some of the cost.... I think it is going to be great.. I think we need to email paul's mom and let her know what we are doing once plans get more defined and let her know about out idea to do a on the drop protest..

So does everyone agree on Texas in March? If so I can get the ball rolling about prices. Is everyone in agreement about a flat charge for everything included except transportation? Let me know and I'll get on it.
Michelle

I will also look into the protest and how we can get there etc. David may be best to organize this part though.
Michelle

Wow.. I see everyone is on the ball on this one. GOOD. :)
Michelle, the zip code here is 77840 - College Station, TX.
I love the Pin the tail on the Warden game.. I'm still laughing about that one.. (Ideas are taking shape!)
March (spring break) time sounds like it works best for most and gives us plenty of time to work out the details.

I'm thinking a we could pack the three day weekend with events. Polunsky protest, maybe a visit to Washington on the Brazos, Lake Day or whatever else everyone wants to do.
Further, I think we could probably get together with TIFA (Texas Inmates Family Association?), TX CURE and some other organizations on one of the days for a giant Get-2-Gether, that is if any of you want. I can contact all of them and possibly organize a grand event on one of the days.
I also like Sherri's idea of making it more than just a friendly meeting. We could have our own "think tank" of sorts to plan how to best utilize PTO to further our cause.. Planning, etc.. I'm also open to actually putting together a board of sorts for PTO like you find in a number of organizations. Areas of responsibility and focus..
Just a few ideas..

David

Hooking up with "other" like minded groups is a SUPER double dip (make mine, French Vanilla) idea! It's a good chance of gleaning ideas from them. Time in grade does have it's advantages.

Texas in March sounds good to me...and David I used to live in College Station ...really great area.
Michelle the car pooling idea sounds great to me...I've made the drive to the area David lives in several times so I wouldn't mind driving.

I would love to go, and I could bring a bunch of sleeping bags etc. The problem about having it in March is that some people would still have to travel through snowy weather. I would say early summer or early fall.Steve&kids

Michelle.... Just let me know what I can do to help, OK event coordinator?!? :)

I hear what your saying Steve A.
Everytime we go somewhere on Spring break I get snowed blizzard in.
Got stuck in Flagstaff on the way to the Grand Canyon. The pass got shut down in Colorado. The last and final Spring Break vacation I sat on a plane in Cincinatti while they de-iced the plane 7 times.
I wish the folks coming from the Northern direction better luck than I have had. LOL

As long as it's before May, I'm vacationing in the Bahamas in May.

lucky you, leonda! need someone to carry your luggage and hail cabs for you and stuff? :D you must let me know how the shells are ~ i'm a shell collector! have fun!

WOW! This is really taking shape huh? Well Being a fellow TExan I am willing to help in any and every way I can....I can borrow my moms HUGE van for anyone who needs transportation here in TX....Michelle (bella) let me know what I can do to help dont want you to have to do this all by your lonesome..plus it would be nice to have something to focus on beside kids and stephen...lol....I AM SO EXCITED!!

The main question I have now, before I make some phone calls, is tentative dates for March. Spring break can be different in every school district so those who are worries about the kids and school please let me know. If I don't hear anything I will use the weekend of the 14, 15 & 16. The only reason I choose those dates is because there are 5 weekends in March and that's in the middle. Let me know if that works. I will be off on Friday and will make calls then.

that works for me.. I am not worried about break we will work around school.. Let me know if I can help in any way also. I am ready to do what what ever so just let us know.. I know that we can get group rates at some motel 6's and even book online.. they cost like 36.00 or something like that.. just an idea..

goody....on the 15th we can all 'celebrate' AC becoming one year older :( works for me! i'm flexible!

O.K. I am late for this one, but I like the ideas.... March 14,15 and 16 will be good. It is not too hot or too cold during that time anywhere.

I agree with Sherri, this must be more than just a social visit.... This will be our time to learn a lot of things and find out how we can make a difference. I like the Pulanski idea too. David, I agree, your house will be great for the meetings. But, I too think it might become a little crowded with the bathroom situation at times. So, let's find out about discounted Motel Rooms for groups in the area.

You girls who are willing to start this should do it right away. Let's have one day for a real conference with speakers etc.

You pick the place and we will either drive or fly. I am excited about our NC meeting this Saturday. I cannot wait. I know how I would be about a National Meeting..

One thing we need to do is Put up a sign up sheet in a new Forum and get a real headcount on who is comming so we know for sure how many we have to plan on.

Then, Get your prices and restaurants etc. If I can help, let me know. I will be glad to....

Love ya all

Donna

I WILL BE CALLING LOCAL MOTELS AND FINDING OUT GROUP RATES, AT THAT TIME I WILL ALSO ASK IF THEY HAVE A CONFERENCE ROOM AND HOW MUCH THE CHARGE IS, MAYBE I CAN CONVINCE THEM TO LET US USE IT FOR FREE,LOL. I WAS HOPING WE COULD DO A MEET AND GREET AND INTROS THERE ON THE FIRST EVENING, I'LL BE LOOKING INTO PLACES TONITE AND MAKING PHONE CALLS TOMORROW. I'LL POST AS SOON AS I GET SOME INFO.
MICHELLE

great start michelle!!!

way to go, bella! i am already anticipating the event!!! can't wait! :D

sounds great!

Sounds good to me, even if it is not spring break I will come.Steve&kids

I AM SO EXCITED :D

Wow!!! You miss a few days of posts and look what has happened!!! I'm there for those dates too. I like all ideas presented with meetings, protest and David I think setting up members like other sites would be great. Would help in taking some of the work off of you since this site is getting so big. I know everyone here wants to help in some way.

OK, here's an update. I contacted 5 motels. Out of the 5, 4 will call me back,lol. The one I got some info on is the Hampton INN and they seem very reasonable. They are willing to charge us by the room not the person, which will save us a ton of $. They will include the conference room for free if we guarantee a bunch of rooms, they have a free continental breakfast and free transportation to and from the airport. I will let you all know which ones the cheapest when I hear from the other hotels.

oooh! hampton inns are really nice, too! i wonder if they have one of those message boards below their sign "WELCOME PTO ~ NATIONAL MEETING" ?!?!?!?! :D

if we guarantee a bunch of rooms

Ok, what is their idea of a "bunch of rooms" ? :D

I am really excited about this. What I am mostly excited about is to finally meet face to face everyone whose lives that have a very big part of mine.

A bunch of room would be like 15. I figured that if we had 30 people that would be 15 rooms, if you think about it, especially including kids, 30 people is not that many. I think we can handle 15 rooms, but I still wanna see what the other places tell me and then maybe I can bargain with them. I'll definately keep you all posted.

well the ball is rolling maybe we should put it on the calendar

I took the liberty of adding the event to the PTO calendar... :D

HAMPTON INNS ARE A VERY GOOD, CLEAN HOTEL EVERYWHERE. IN FACT, RENEE MAY HAVE SOME CONNECTIONS THAT COULD GET US EVEN CHEAPER ROOMS WITH THEM... SHE WORKED FOR THEM FOR MANY YEARS AS A MANAGER AND HAS MANY FRIENDS IN MANAGEMENT NOW... SHE USED TO GET AN EMPLOYEE DISCOUNT AND WAS STILL GETTING IT JUST A LITTLE WHILE AGO... LET ME ASK HER.

THIS IS A GREAT START...... ANYWHERE WE GO WE WILL HAVE TO GUARANTEE SO MANY ROOMS. I THINK WE WILL HAVE MORE THAN THIRTY PEOPLE.... THERE ARE MANY OF US FROM THE EASTERN PART OF THE STATES. IT IS NOT TOO FAR TO DRIVE FROM THIS AREA.... AND, WITH THE AIRLINE DISCOUNTS NOW A PLANE TICKET WON'T BE TOO EXPENSIVE. THIS WILL BE A VERY RELAXING AND WONDERFUL TIME... I CAN ONLY IMAGINE WHAT A NATIONAL WOULD BE. WE JUST CAME BACK FROM OUR N.C. MEETING AND LET ME TELL YOU ONE THING. I FEEL SO VERY COMFORTED AND LOVED RIGHT NOW. THINGS WERE SO GREAT AT THAT MEETING, I CAN ONLY IMAGINE HOW GREAT IT WILL BE AT A NATIONAL MEETING.


LOVE YA
DONNA

I am game. It all sounds good to me too. I will either fly in, or if someone from southern calif wants to drive & would like company, I can help with driving, & expenses. This is great guys & gals, this gives me plenty of time to be able set it aside.

It would be great to meet you all. I have met Tigger (Robbie), & we had a good time, visiting, & working. It was great to meet her, & it will be great to meet the rest of you too. I am really looking forward to this.---------Ken

whenever and wherever it is i will be there-after saturday's north carolina get-together, i am even MORE excited about this- let me know how i can help- maybe we can try to get some kind of agenda together and make then have people sign up to handle different segments

i agree with sherri and donna ~ after our little NC get together this weekend, i am more excited than ever about the big bash in texas! the love and compassion and sisterhood i felt saturday was something i am not sure i have EVER felt! i love you guys! *hugs*

I'M COMING!!!! I'LL PUT UP WITH THAT LONG FLIGHT FOR THIS!! PUT MY NAME DOWN, PLEASE... I CAN'T WAIT. IMAGINE THE ENERGY WE WILL PUT OUT WHEN WE ALL GET TOGETHER!

Yes guys Hampton Inn's are very nice and they have the Great Signs out front. If we rented rooms there all we would have to do is ask to have our group name placed on there. I use to be a GM for Hampton Inns and still have alot of connections. If you what I can make the Hotel arrangements for everyone. I can probably get us a much better rate and what ever else we need.

Let me Know. I can't get on PTO alot anymore, but if you need immediate help on anything just tell Budwoman and she can inform me.

Ok I really want to go...I hope that money "issues" are better by next year March for me.

I have the feeling this get together is going to be a whole lot of fun & very informative for all of us.

dj: if the "issues" aren't cleared up, that's ok...practice climbing into a very small box in the meantime....i'll take you as my "check in" bag :p

i am just so excited about this!!! if it wasn't for my aging thing on the 15th, i'd swear i want march 14 to hurry up and get here!!!

Wow! Is this event really gonna happen?

I could come as a FREE International Speaker. Perhaps I could actually prepare a seminar on something... "Human Rights Advances That Canada Has Implemented?..."

Maybe we could actually organize some sort of car pooling thingy, as in "I'll fly to Illinois, meet so and so and then we'll meet April and Budwoman in N.C., pick up Tek4real, and from there...

WE'LL GO TO TEXAS IN A CONVOY! YEAH!

But that's only if you change it to an INTERNATIONAL event...hehehehehe

Menolly

International sounds great to me Menolly!! :D I think it is going to be sucha great time and I cant wait for it to happen!! :D :D :D :D :D

We are ALREADY international by membership. So, anything we do needs to be addressed in that light if we plan on making a difference in the system(s).

Adption of ideas have no boarders or boundaries!

I have been told that a older motor home is now mine and I have to deside, how much I will pay for it. Now, isn't that a twist? A little shaddy, but legal dealings went ary with others, and I'm the one to benifit. :-) So, I might take a week off and drive to our shin-dig in Texas? I'll let ya'll in CA know in case some might want to make the trip that couldn't afford otherwise.

OK THIS SOUNDS GREAT... OF COURSE THIS IS INTERNATIONAL... ALL PTO MEMBERS EVERYWHERE ARE INVITED.... CANADA, NETHERLANDS, CHINA, AUSTRALIA, MEXICO, ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD... YES, WE NEED SOME GOOD SPEACHES AND SEMINARS MENOLLY. BRAY, THE CAMPER SOUNDS GOOD.... MAYBE STEVE AND KEN CAN COME WITH YOU... PERSONALLY, I WOULD LIKE TO SEE AT LEAST 50, MAYBE 100 OR MORE MEMBERS THERE.... THIS WILL BE THE START OF GREAT THINGS FOR ALL OF US....

DAVID, WHERE ARE YOU SON? WE NEED YOUR LEADERSHIP IN ORDER TO KNOW EXACTLY WHAT YOU HAVE IN THE BACK OF YOUR MIND.... WE NEED TO GET THIS ORGANIZED AND GIVE OUT JOBS TO DIFFERENT ONES...

OK BIG GUY..... LET US KNOW

LOVE YA
DONNA

I CAN JUST FEEL ALL THE EXCITEMENT!!! :fb: :fb: :fb:

David, we do need our leader here to guide us. Did you ever think this idea of yours would get this big? Amazaing what God can do.

What will the weather be like?

WEATHER IN TEXAS IN MARCH SHOULD BE MILD. NOT HOT OR COLD..... 70'S MAYBE....SHORTIE AND AMELIA AND DAVID CAN TELL YOU FOR SURE.

DONNA

EEK, BRAY!!!

You MUST come and you HAVE TO bring Ken, too!! And tie him up until he consents to do a seminar also on say "What REALLY works to let an inmate rediscover his own worth, and soul!"

Is Steve, Steve Atchley? Hmmm, single Dad with kids, we may have to think up how to help with child care.

P.S: Birthday Party's over in "New Users"...

Menolly

David:

I already asked my boss about a week's holidays for this, and she said "OF COURSE! You work 50 to 70 hours a week, and have NEVER taken any holidays. Just give us one week's notice!"

So now you KNOW I'm serious!

Menolly

ok, I got a call from the Ramada and believe it or not they were cheaper! I'm still waiting on some other calls and will them list all the prices etc. for input.
Lovemuffin/budwoman if you guys have an inside contact with the Hampton Inn and may be able to get a better discount that would be GREAT! Let me know.

Hey Menolly..... think you could bring the Dancing Santa's?

(sorry..... just can't get that image out of my mind!!:D )

As soon as these plans are definate, could we get all the details? I'm going to have to do some serious saving and book my ticket. If there's anything I can do from here,online maybe just let me know. Thanks Lorin

i am just soooooo excited! this is not only shaping up to be an awesome conference, but also a family reunion!!!!! :D

IF YOU CAN'T BRING ALL THE DANCING SANTAS, AT LEAST BRING THE FOURTH ONE FROM THE LEFT...:)

Now Sherrie.... you have to share!!!!!!:D I'm trying to figure out which one I want ..........Heck, I WANT THEM ALLL :fb:

Oh, I am still excited about this GREAT get together. Kinda got side tracked there... Sorry :cool:

call me odd, but i'd like to call dibs on the one wearing glasses!!! who knows what happens when THOSE come off?!?!? :D

KEEP COMMING UP WITH THE IDEAS.... DAVID WILL BE BACK ON NEXT WEEK. HE HAS A JOB THAT IS TAKING 12 HRS A DAY AND HE WILL BE FINISHED NEXT WEEK. HE TOO IS EXCITED AND WANTS TO GET STARTED... THE RAMADA BEING CHEAPER SOUNDS GOOD. LETS SEE WHAT RENEE CAN GET THE ROOMS FOR. I THINK WE MAY SHOULD MAYBE PLAN ON AT LEAST 100 FOR THE PRESENT AND THEN GET AN ACTUAL HEAD COUNT CLOSER TO TIME... I KNOW THEY WILL REQUIRE A GUARANTEE.

BOY, I LOVE THE EXCITEMENT..... WE HAVE ALL SORTS OF INFORMATION AVAILABLE FROM DIFFERENT AREAS.... CANADA, NETHERLANDS, USA, ETC. WHO KNOWS...


LOVE YA
DONNA

Dancing santas in March, in Texas. Especially, the one fourth from the left, and the one with glasses...

GOTCHA, girls...

I'll see what I can do!

Of course, you all know Santa lives IN NORTHERN CANADA. So, I may be able to pull some strings...

Menolly!

I kinda had a fleeting thing for the one in glasses too! But I also think Billy Bob Thornton is hot.
So jealous I won't be able to attend! But there should be lots and lots of good pictures and threads form this when you all get back!!

WOW...How did I miss this... Count on representation from Connecticut...I'm so excited (still can't believe I missed all this) I would love to work on some leads for a guest speaker...Is that O.K.? I'll research it and bring back some ideas.
Question: what is the nearest airport? Southwest always has some good prices...the $99.00 one-way fare.
I think March is good too.
But, David, I want a run on the jet ski! I don't care how cold the water is. I grew up in Montana, so I've felt COLD before! LOL!

Just dropping in for a sec.. Still a few more days before I am back in the "saddle" but had to address a few questions..
The nearest Major Airport is Bush/Intercontinental in Houston. The other airport in Houston is Hobby and I believe Southwest flyz in and out of there.
Locally, we have a small-mid airport called Easterwood. Puddle jumpers for the big boys come and go all the time from there.. It is maybe 3 miles from my house. To drive from Houston to the front door, it is about 84 miles.. (an easy hour and a 1/2 drive)
More later! Keep up the good work and I'll be in the game soon!

Any one else bringing kids?Steve&kids

Yeah Steve, I am. My girls are ages 15 and 16. They will be available to help watch other's who are bringing little ones.

Oh Steve, you're gonna come?

That's so wonderful.

It'll do you little ones so much good to see that a whole whack of people DON'T judge, and DO try to help, and DO care!

I'd be honoured to spend some time with your kids. I could sing them French-Canadian children's songs and lullabies...

Love,
Menolly

O.K NOW WE ARE ON THE WAY.... YES STEVE, WE WILL HAVE BABY SITTERS ASSIGNED FOR SPECIFIC TIME PERIODS... OLD MAMAW HERE WILL PROBABLY DO SOME OF IT... AS SOON AS DAVID GETS BACK WE WILL DECIDE EXACTLY WHO, WHAT, WHEN AND WHERE AND START GETTING THINGS REALLY TOGETHER...

O.K GIRLS.... I WANT THE MIDDLE SANTA... AND BRAY AND STEVE AND KEN HAVE TO DANCE.. WE NEED TO FIND NIGHTHAWK TOO. HE LIVES IN TEXAS AND HE NEEDS TO BE AT THIS MEETING OF THE MINDS.


LOVE YA
DONNA

Donna;

Methinks the guys should definitely show up, if for no other reason than there'll probably be 10 women for every man!

Menolly

I AM HERE IN HOUSTON TEXAS NOT FAR FROM FED-EX. I WILL BE WILLING TO HELP. TO BE ABLE TO TELL YOU WERE ARE THE BEST AND THE WORST AREAS OF TOWN. I CAN ALSO PICK PEOPLE UP FROM THE AIRPORT AND BUS STATIONS I WORK NIGHTS AND DRIVE ALL OVER TOWN, SO I HAVE NO PROBLEM WITH PICKING PEOPLE UP AND TAKING THEM TO THE HOTEL. JUST LET ME NOW. IF YOU WANT SOMTHING IN TEXAS THE WEATHER IN FEB. AND MARCH IS ABOUT 50-70 DERGREES DEPENDS ON THE WINTER WE HAVE. THIS IS THE BEST TIME TO COME DOWN HERE.RIGHT NOW WE ARE AT 98.

Ugh! No thanks to the 98 degrees...March still sound good!

OK, I have not heard back from all the hotels but from the ones I heard from it seems the Ramada is the best deal. They want $59 a night per room. That's not per person but per roon and they said they will allow up to 4 adults in a room. The rooms obviously have two double beds. If we share it could cost us between $15 and $30 a night, each. I think that's the cheapest were gonna get but please give be your thoughts/suggestions everyone! Any Ramada I ever stayed in was really nice, let me know guys.
Michelle

Ramada works for me... that's not a bad deal at all!! :)

ramada sounds like a winner....now, with 4 women per room, think they have any accomodations with 2 bathrooms???? :p

Sounds good to me too. Just need to make sure that events start LATE in the mornings so everyone has a chance at the shower :D

Oh, one more thing... How far in advance do we need to make reservations?

Tell me when you guys are making the reservations, and I'll book my plane ticket. And max my credit card out like you wouldn't believe.

WAIT FOR DAVID BEFORE MAKING ANY RESERVATIONS... HE SHOULD BE ON THIS WEEK TO LET US KNOW WHAT HE HAS IN MIND.... I DO KNOW, DAVID, WE CANNOT ALL STAY AT YOUR HOUSE... THE RAMADA WILL BE GOOD IF IT IS IN A GOOD LOCATION.... MAYBE WE SHOULD GET CLOSE TO THE HOUSTON AIRPORT.

I AM GETTING MORE AND MORE EXCITED... THIS IS ALMOST AUGUST ONLY 7 1/2MONTHS TO GO..

LOVE YA
DONNA

OK, I'm back.. Sorry about the brief posts and visits. My schedule has been cleared up and I can breathe a bit more now. I've got PTO tunnel vision now and will be catching back up and getting involved 110% in this and other related prisoner support issues. I need some time to re-read this thread and take notes on everyones posts.
I believe the Ramada is right down the street. I'll check on that too..
I think opening a forum for this will probably also be a good idea so we can discuss all the different issues and what we all want to see at the First PTO GTG.

David

David,
Glad your back in full force, we missed you. I agree that a forum for this would be good. With all the ideas and input this could be the longest PTO thread ever,lol. As far as reservations they need a deposit to ensure a minimun amout of rooms at that rate. I suppose we can get into that later if you like. Anyway, I'm excited too and can't wait to meet ya'll (see i got the Texas lingo down pat,lol).

Do armadilloes bite?

Bella,

Our newest member Gokiwi is a TRAVEL AGENT! We gotta put that girl to work, wouldn't you say?

Menolly

Definately!! She e-mailed me so I will respond to her in the morning. As I'm typing this I only have one eye open,lol. Who better to help us with travel plans than a travel agent?
Night. Hugs,
Michelle

Menolly... no armadillos don't bite... but snakes do!!!:D

SNAKES???!!!ARE THERE LOTS OF SNAKES?

Is everyone on here allowed to come? Just I tend to visit my dad in the holidays in the US. I sometimes take my friends with me, my best mate being the one whos dads in prison and visits the site lots, so it might be fun for us to come along.

Sounds like everything is coming along!:)

I can't believe I missed this entire thread until tonight. Wow! What a great idea. I've always wanted to see Texas. If there's a way to get it past my boss, the bank :) and my babysitter; I'm in!

Anything I can do to help - just let me know.

Kat

Yeah, me neither, I missed this! Well I have been home A LOT!!! [humina humina]

Bella, I was thinking the exact same thing about doing some shooting at this great get together. So I will make plans to do most of the shooting for the documentary right there. That would be great. There will be a conference room? Will I be able to set up a mock set? Not much; chairs, background and lights. As the date gets closer, will we have a list of all who will attend? I can make my list of who will want to be in the documentary (of who will be attending) from that. If people are not attending the get together who want to be in the doc, I will make other arrangements.

I would love to join. March sounds great. I won't be bringing any kids, does Cliff count?

Man, sorry I missed this!
Veronica

Caroline, I sure anybody you brought would be very welcomed...Veronica that sound like fun...Can we purchase copies of the tapes??!

BOY, THIS THING IS SOUNDING BETTER AND BETTER...... DAVID, HAVE YOU GOTTEN YOUR THOUGHTS TOGETHER.... BELLA IS READY AND WAITING TO SET UP THE SITE. WE HAVE GOT MANY WHO ARE WILLING TO DO TALKS AND SEMINARS..... SHERRI,MENOLLY, I WILL EVEN TALK, I WILL BABY SIT TOO.... I LOVE THAT PART.... BELLA IS A GOOD PLANNER. RENEE TOO HAS SOME PULL WITH HAMPTON INN IF YOU WANT TO GO THERE....

LET US KNOW BIG BOY..... I AM READY TO MAKE MY RESERVATIONS.

LOVE YA
DONNA

Veronica, all of the hotels I have spoken to have conference rooms. They vary in size but I'm sure you'll be able to set up your equiptment. I don't see any reason they wouldn't allow it. I'm sure there will ne a estimate of who is comming before hand. We will need it to finalize to reservations, schedule events etc. As we get more into it I will let you know any info. I get that will be handy to you.

Donna,
I was wondering if Renee looked into her connections with the Hampton Inn. Maybe she can get an eveen better deal since she has inside pull. Let me know. I'm ready to make reservation now too,lol.

David, I know you've been busy, just wondering what you're thinking on all this so far. What suggestions you have etc.

Caroline, you are part of PTO and you have someone with a connection to the prison system. Heck even if you didn't everyone is welcome to our "family reunion".

CAN'T WAIT TO SEE YOU ALL!!
HUGS,
Michelle

we need to post a general email about all the progress so we can keep up without rescroll through it all...

Are things still a go for this? Havn't heard much and would like to keep it up in the lime light and not get lost in all the posts. I am really excited about this.

O.K. DAVID...... I AM BACK NOW AND IN FULL STEAM HEAD ON FORCE... SO, LET'S DO SOME PLANNING.... WE REALLY DO NEED TO GET STARTED ON THIS.... BELLA IS WAITING TO HEAR SOMETHING... HAVE YOU FOUND OUT ANYTHING FROM YOUR END?

RENEE ALSO HAS SOME PULL WITH THE HAMPTON INNS.... IF WE MAKE PLANE RESERVATIONS THE FURTHER IN ADVANCE THE LOWER THE RATES.... WE NEED TO BEGIN THOSE NO LATER THAN OCTOBER OR NOVENBER...... ALSO, WE SHOULD DECIDE WHAT SORT OF PROGRAMS WE PLAN TO HAVE...ETC ETC.

LOVE YA
DONNA

Just let me know if you what me to look into setting up a hotel. Budwoman can give me all the details, since I can't always be on site. I can probably help with any Hilton Brand Hotel which is Hampton Inns, Homewood Suites, Embassy Suites, Hiltons, and Hilton Gardens so just let me know. Of course Hilton and Embassy Suites are full service hotels which we may what to use if we what to set up a meeting room. It really depends on how many people are going to show. If it is going to be more than 25 we probably what to stick with a full service hotel. Embassy is nice because they have free cook to order breakfast and free cocktails every night. It also depends on what city we are holding this meeting in.

Let me know guys.

Ladies! hehehehe...

Am I crazy, or is this starting to resemble wedding planning.

You know, the men pop the idea, and the women nag for input about the details for the next 8 months.

Maybe we should just make all our travel plans in secret, and show up on Dave's doorstep one morning and say "Surprise! We decided you're feeding us all!"

hahahahahaha...

Menolly

BOY HE WOULD DIE WOULD'T HE? THERE ARE GOING TO BE AT LEAST 110 THERE NOW.... IF HE HAS TO SLEEP AND FEED THAT MANY HE MAY REGRET STARTING PTO...

OK DAVID.....

LOVE YA
DONNA

Nah, he'll just start praying real hard that God will bring the loaves of bread to 'feed the masses'... !:p

I am so glad I finally found this thread!! I asked somewhere else about the dates, etc., but my post must have gotten lost in the shuffle. Can I come too?? I used to fly a lot for my job and I am pretty sure I have a free set of tickets for Southwest lying around here somewhere. Oh yeah, I think I'm supposed to attend a wedding in Houston on the 15th too. Somewhere at the University. I think there's a Hilton located right on the campus?? At any rate, I'm going to be there anyway. So, how far is Houston from all the PTO happenings?? I know I'm new to PTO, but I sure would like to meet all of you. THIS IS AWESOME! GOD IS SOOOOOOOO GOOD!!

:dance:

Okay - I need to know exactly what has been decided - when & where. Also, if I can get off work, odds are I'll be going Greyhound (cheapest) and want to know if somebody will be available to pick me up! What city should be the destination?

Thanks!

WELL, WE ARE STILL WAITING ON DAVID.... THE DESTINATION WOULD BE HOUSTON, TX..... WE ARE ON EDGE WAITING FOR INSTRUCTIONS ON WHAT TO START FIRST. BELLA AND RENEE ARE GETTING HOTEL INFO WITH CONFERENCE ROOMS..... WE ARE TRYING TO FIGURE OUT HOW WE WANT TO SET IT UP.... FRIDAY NIGHT, DINNER DANCE AND MEET GREET SITUATIONS.... SATURDAY MORNING A GENERAL SESSION/ WITH BREAK OUT SESSIONS AFTER GENERAL SESSION.... SUNDAY MORNING GOODBYE BREAKFAST.... ANY OTHER SUGGESTIONS.... MARK OFF MARCH 14,15 AND 16 FOR THE CONVENTION.... GO AHEAD AND MAKE YOUR VACATION PLANS FOR THEN.... SURELY DAVID WILL GET BACK TO US VERY SHORTLY...

LOVE YA
DONNA

I like it donna- need to put in some time for some fun stuff on saturday night too--all work and no play makes jack a dull boy....:)

...oh this sounds so nice! a vacation away w/friends I haven't even seen yet!!!?!?! That would be too exciting:)
-unfortunately I know I would be too broke to even think about it:)

GINA-MAYBE YOU AND SOME OTHER MEMBERS IN YOUR AREA COULD GET TOGETHER, RENT A VAN, AND TAKE A ROAD TRIP..YOU KNOW LIKE CHEVY CHASES'S "VACATION" (LOL)

HAhahahHAHA
...that sounds like an interesting adventure! :)
I'm sure Sophia(my baby girl) would love that)! *sarcasm:)* heehee
Yea I don't think the idea would fly w/her or her daddy-he'd be out of his mind w/worry about a road trip that long:)
What babies they are?! haha

Hi everyone.. I"m still new, but I think it's a wonderful idea of a convention type thing. I live in Austin, Tx.. a couple hours from Houston... but I'm willing to try and find out any information or help in any way I can....What a wonderful idea! Just let me know if there's anything I can do.
Jodygirl

Another Thing, we do need to squeeze in some time for the Pulanski protest... Maybe on Friday or Sunday Morning. What do you think? Nitehawk and Pam and Joy can definately help us with this.

Donna

FYI
Just a word of advise for those coming in by bus.
Try to arrive as close to the motel as possible and not in Houston. It will be a nice thing to do to who ever has to pick you up. HOuston traffic is a horror! Also I hope the Motel you are looking into in NOT in Houston but closer to College Station (or wherever Fed x's hometown)

I am new here but I feel as if I have gained this whole new family over the past three weeks! I would love to meet everyone face to face.....so count me in!!!! I just hope that everyone is prepared for ALOT of non-stop talking!!!!
:hee:

Both me and my friend (the ones whos dad is in jail) should be coming, I asked my dad expecting him to say no and he was like why not your an adult :) So as long as I can get over for that date I will be there.

Ok........just found this site ..........I will be there.
I live an equal distance to Austin, San Antonio............and Bryan. So if anybody needs a modest accomadations before or after let me know. But need more information to request time off.............


Place: Houston or David's home unsure ?
Date: March 15-17 2003 ?
Planned: Activities
Car Pool:
Guest Speakers:
ETC:

Anything.new.on.the.plans???

I will volunteer to do the spread sheet please email me with what youa re working on and what you have found out. I am in need of this info for the brochure.. Please let me know asap... thanks everyone..

What brochure? I really need to come here more often I always feel like the redheaded step child, oh wait a minute I am a redhead DUH! any how you can count on Kris and I being there if we have to walk. Just please let me know when.

Man I wish I could go I have always wanted to go to Texas, and see the AQHA hall of fame, but I won't be able to get $$, time off work, or a baby sitter. Maybe for the 2nd annual round up I'll make it too.
Good luck everyone, have a blast, and take pictures so you guys can post them on PTO for the ones that can't attend. (I might be the only one left behind) lol!

I'd love to go... still waiting for dates and such though....hmmmm?

Jodygirl

hey what's going on with this?

THIS IS STILL IN THE WORKS. WE ARE WAITING ON DAVID TO GIVE US ASSIGNMENTS. WE ARE DEFINATELY HAVING IT ON MARCH 16, 17 AND 18 2003 IN TEXAS. YOU WILL BE GETTING INFORMATION VERY SOON ABOUT THE ANNUAL GET TOGETHER.

DONNA

thank you, donna.

I see the last post in this subject was in November, but I am definitely attending the reunion in March. Are those days still the same for this get together? I think it is cool that it is in Texas because Tim just so happens to be there. I can visit him and attend the reunion at the same time!!! I also think Texas is the best place because it seems as though Texas is kind of like PTO headquarters because of Fed X being from there. Also the state of TX in my opinion seems to be the first state people think of when prison is being discussed whether on TV, radio, newspaper, etc...... I don't know why that is-----maybe because Texas has the reputation more than any other place to have executions. I am just taking a guess. My thoughts are no disrespect to Texas, because my cowboy is in prison there!! But anyways, I would love to meet everybody and we could all bring pictures of our loved ones and stuff!! So you might as well count me in. Now I just have to come up with the coins to go!!! hahaha

Just read this... want more info... when, where, and how long,... gonna see if it is possible for an old injun to get there. I like the idea that David posted. then we would all be together and could visit without having to spend a fortune....a very important fact for old indians.
Love it
ndn

Opps when I posted I hadn't read all of the 10 pages of posts. Now I know a bit more... anyone from Ohio driving down??? if not I most likely won't make it ....I will cry. But I'm gonna do all I can to get there. This injun doesn't walk much Legs don't allow it ...so will the places be accessable to someone that can't do stairs? I can sit out any events that call for a lot of walking. Is David going to have any guests at his house..? How far from Beaumont? Diane want to drive it..?

Keep us posted folks
ndn

ndn, DON'T worry about any stairs, if there are any! We will do what ever is needed, so you would be at anything that's going on!

Years ago, I was at an online 4 day bash. One member was a 250# woman in a chair. NO WAY was she left out of ANYTHING! There were times she said, "I'll just stay here". No way did that happen, we were going to the other end of the strip (Las Vagas) and we got her in the back of my pickup truck with two others and she just waved at the people as we went by. ~grin~

So, your limits are not a problem!!

Bray, you are such a gentleman. NDN I have a electric scooter I only use when things get real bad, I will bring it incase anyone would like to use it. It does help. When I am in a great deal of pain, I use it. It has never embarassed me. :)

i want to go but i dont know if i am going to have the money to go. pm and let me know more of like how much it is going to cost and where is it again.

Update on the details very soon to follow. It will still be held March 14-16. PLease post a reply to the head count thread aswell.

Bella and all who have posted .....

I plan on having 2 come. Myself and my husband. We are going to fly down because of the distance from NC to Texas. Bella plans to post here where the rooms will be and how much they are. All of you need to check into your flight, bus or other ways to get there. I am sure there will be some driving and maybe you can get a ride to Texas. Air Fares are at a major low right now so if you can make reservations early, it will help with the cost. Of course, the bus takes much longer and is very tiring, but you can get there very reasonable.

This will be an opportunity to really meet and get to know all the people you have been corresponding with for quite a while. You will even meet the OLE BUDWOMAN and her man.

Hope a bunch of you can come. Bella, where is the sign up thread?

Love Ya
Donna

ndn
Beaumont is a little over 3 hours away. If someone wants to go, I'll be glad to take you/them. I can visit with my daughters - they are only about 35 miles from Beaumont
Leslie

B-Ray you're an ole sweetheart, and if a miracle happens and I do get there you might have to do that again,,,Flygal I have one of those myself...a super delux model with a lift seat and two baskets (for souvenirs) and no flat tires. I wouldn't try to bring it though. I doubt if funds will allow me to be there...Damn I hate being broke ...This is gonna be a great thing and the ole injun is gonna miss it.

ndn (cryin in her keyboard) "Why Me??"

I have read all these pages. I would like to know more about this. I am in Palestine, Texas and would love to meet everyone and help out in anyway that I can.

I would love to participate!!!

Michael is set for release (if he gets out then) between Feb and June. but he will just have to deal .. I dealt for this long he can deal for four days right?!?! Let me know something.

Vada

PLease post in the open thread. As there are too many of the same type of thread going I am closing this one.



*CLOSED*