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Location! Location! Location!
Who plans to attend the ANA Convention in Chicago? Chicago is a great city to visit!
Kate
Chicago's Self Appointed Social Director:-)
P.S. Jan I am hoping you'll be co-social director
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Kate -
Let me be the first to congratulate you on your appointment ;D
I would absolutely love to be co-social director and look forward to working with you. Thanks for the nomination!
In addition to this great honor, I am on the volunteer list as well as the sponsor list and I am very anxious to meet lots and lots of my fellow forumites! So when the time comes, I'd like to urge everyone to sign up. Chicago IS a great city to visit and I'm confident we'll all have a wonderful time.
Besides, let's not forget, Steve is buying the drinks - and I'm sure he'll be bringing all those custom-knitted hats he's promised us this past year ;) I hear mine's green. Can't wait!!!
Jan
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I want to come!!!!!!!!!!
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Oh Boy! A social director! I was last symposium's fashion accessory co-ordinator. I passed out about 50 pirate scarves, necklaces, earrings, pens, pencils, etc. It was a blast. I'm starting my new collection soon! See you in Chicago.
Capt Deb(http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee60/Captdeb_photos/pirate2.gif)
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Jan, if you're busy volunteering, how are you going to have time to enjoy the drinks Steve is buying? Well, I'll just have yours, I guess.
Lori
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Nice try, Lori :D
I'm not sure what my volunteering "gig" involves since this will be my first (of hopefully many) ANA Symposiums, but I think it's probably something like registration - you know handing attendees their registration packets.
If that is my assignment, I'll make sure I slip everyone those free drink tokens that Steve has so graciously asked the powers that be at the ANA to give us all - compliments of him, of course ;) Those that I like just may get extra tokens - so you'd better start being nice to me ;D
Personally I can't wait to see the loot Captain Deb brings this year. Dibs on a necklace and some earrings!
Jan
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Count me in too, it will be great returning to where I began!
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Cool Arushi 8)
Where in the Chicago area did you begin?
Jan
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Well, just think how little I'll have to pack - Cap'n Deb will be the official outfitter of the symposium! Can't wait to see what she picks out! :o
Lori
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Gee, if Cap'n Deb is handing out scarves and stuff at this convention, maybe I should save the knitted hats for another time? ???
Steve, planning to be there...
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NOT ON YOUR LIFE, BUDDY BOY!!!! I want a red or purple hat. Got my order in girls ;)
Anne Marie
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Who says you can't wear a knit hat with a pirate patch?
Besides, if it truly is The Windy City, we'll need something to keep our newly colored hair from blowing around!
Lori
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hated the thought of moving this thread here, but based on the direction of the conversation..... moved to AN Community. Sorry KateB.
BTW, I'll be there... oh, I ain't missin' this one.... trust me... :)
Phyl
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I plan on coming this year. Can't wait to meet everyone.
We will be there in Chicago at a wedding 2 days before that anyway!!!!
I look forward to this. I want a red hat!!
Lacey
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Nice try, Steve :D
You are not getting out of the hat deal that easily! Make mine green - light green, dark green, doesn't really matter. I am SO looking forward to my hat.
Lacey -
glad to hear you're planning on attending. I'm going to be in San Diego prior to the meeting.
Jan
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I really want to go to Chicago but it is my 50th birthday (did I really just say 50?) on August 15 and I'm not sure I can swing it. Of course, one can celebrate a week earlier or later, right? I mean, that's not bad etiquette, is it? Working on this one....
Marci
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Count me in too, can we get Oprah tickets too......... :)
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I want me a Rasta Hat steve!!! ya Mon! I'm growin me dreads as we speak!
Also a shout out to anyone going to a Walmart! go by the accessory area and check out the bandannas. They are usually 99 cents. I found scads of them wiv skulls and crossbones last year and bought all of them I could find. The pink ones were the best! Then I cleaned out the sale table at Claire's when they put the pirate earrings on sale for 1/2 price. C'mon if we're all going to go around walking like drunken sailors, we might as well look like them!
Capt Deb(http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee60/Captdeb_photos/pirate2.gif)
PS photo at left taken at last years symposium--me and the Batty Wench sharing a giggle!
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Dave & I are tentively (SP? that doesn't look right) planning on coming if it works out with everyone's schedules and we still have FREE airline tickets by then. I have never been to Chicago so this seems like a perfect opportunity to scope it out!! ;D
K
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Marci, wouldn't a trip to Chicago to see your friends be a swell 50th birthday present?
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Yeah, Marci, just think of all the swell presents we can knit you - I mean give you - for your birthday. We can have a cake! A chocolate and beer birthday cake!
Steve
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If I tell my husband that this is what I want for my birthday, he might go for it...
Marci (visions of shopping the Magnificent Mile dance in my head)
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A chocolate and beer birthday cake!
A chocolate and beer cake, or chocolate cake and beer?
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A chocolate and beer birthday cake!
A chocolate and beer cake, or chocolate cake and beer?
I was wondering the same thing myself ???
Perhaps Steve has a special recipe he'd like to share with us ???
Jan
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I could make one up - I guess if we drank enough beer before we ate the cake, we wouldn't care, but that is really not fair to Marci!! ;D I don't usually drink that much beer anyway!
K
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Marci, I turn 50 at about the same time - I'm thinking a trip to Chicago would be the perfect way to celebrate! Would really love to meet everyone - especially in Pirate mode!
...what does one do at a "symposium" (besides drink a bit)... is it geared toward the medical field, the patients, both??? Just curious - think I'm sold on it no matter what the topic!
cindy
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Wow! What a list we've started:
Jan
Deb
Kaybo (no better place to use free airline tickets)
Marci? (chocolate cake and beer for turning 50
Steve
Lam Sue
Anne Marie wants to be there
Lori
Arushi
Still time to join the fun...
Honestly, there is few large cities as fine as Chicago. It's all here: The food, the culture, the museums, the lakefront, the outdoor events will make your head spin.
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Kate~
I'm not sure saying "make your head swim" would be a super enticing thing to this group... ;D
K
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Kate~
I'm not sure saying "make your head swim" would be a super enticing thing to this group... ;D
K
K,
I didn't even catch the play on words:-)
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Laughing out loud at "make your head spin". :D
I do have a funny Chicago shopping story if anyone is in the mood for a laugh...
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...what does one do at a "symposium" (besides drink a bit)... is it geared toward the medical field, the patients, both??? Just curious - think I'm sold on it no matter what the topic!
cindy
I was at the last symposium in Philly in 2007. It was worth it just for the opportunity to meet so many wonderful people from the forum! ;D But there was a lot of great information, too. It's a series of workshops, Q&A sessions, presentations, etc. done by the medical community for patients. It's a very unique experience, and was very well done. They covered a huge range of topics, and you could pick and choose among the presentations to go to the ones relevant/interesting to you.
I wish I could confirm I'm going to Chicago, but alas - I can't yet say one way or the other. :-\
Katie
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Add Cheryl R I have been to the last 3 and this is the closest one to home.
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Laughing out loud at "make your head spin". :D
I do have a funny Chicago shopping story if anyone is in the mood for a laugh...
Go ahead Marci...we are in the community forum and my guess is we can stray a bit:-)
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Add Cheryl R I have been to the last 3 and this is the closest one to home.
Wow! What a list we've started:
Jan
Deb
Kaybo (no better place to use free airline tickets)
Marci? (chocolate cake and beer for turning 50
Steve
Lam Sue
Anne Marie wants to be there
Lori
Arushi
Cheryl R.
Still time to join the fun... noting head spin comment is missing<grins>
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OK, Kate. This is so convincing -- and Chicago is definitely my favorite northern city (Miami is in first place -- I've been in Chicago in January) count me in.
David
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Marci,
Now you have to tell us your funny shopping story!!!
I've never been to Chicago either, but as luck would have it...my son will be graduating from boot camp around the time of the symposium anyway - in the Great Lakes area, so if I have to make an extended trip out of it, I'll just crash on Jan's couch. Or Kate's. Which one of you has a more comfortable couch?
Lori
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Oh, I can't wait. Starting to buy some US$$$. I think the main reason I want to go is to actually meet everyone.
Anne Marie
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BTW, I'll be there... oh, I ain't missin' this one.... trust me... :)
Phyl
I'm feeling so unloved....... :(
*walks off sulking....* :'(
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PHYL WILL BE THERE TOO!!!!
How did we miss her??? I have to be honest & say that if we go, it will be to meet the people...that far outweighs the Symposium for me!!
K
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Hopefully I'll be able to make it all the way up there.
Tom
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Looks like a few got missed.
Updated list: Phyl, Kate, Jan, Deb, Kay, Marci, Steve, Lacey, Sue, Cindy, Anne Marie, David, Lori, Karen, Cheryl, Tom.
And Phyl again, in case I forgot her. :D
Steve
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Count me in....I live in Chicago so I will for sure be volunteering....!!
Meagan
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Wow! What a list we've started:
PHYL
Jan
Deb
Kaybo (no better place to use free airline tickets)
Marci? (chocolate cake and beer for turning 50
Steve
Lam Sue
Anne Marie wants to be there
Lori
Arushi
Cheryl R.
Meagan
LA David
There is lots of time:-) Just a way to plant the seed and grow it:-)
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BTW, I'll be there... oh, I ain't missin' this one.... trust me... :)
Phyl
I'm feeling so unloved....... :(
*walks off sulking....* :'(
Oversight...*blames it on age*
Now brightly added to the list:-)
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Wait! Do I see that Phyl's getting special treatment here? What is this another moderator's perk??? LOL
Glad to see the list of attendees so far.
How about Jim Scott? bucko? joef? Wendy? Tamara? Lacey?
There are soooo many people I want to meet, I can't even list them all :o
Jan
PS - Lori you can crash on my couch anytime - although the kids tend to snack there, so it's probably full of crumbs and sticky stuff. Hope you won't mind ;D
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I'd love to come to meet everybody face to face. My sister visited Chicago earlier this year and loved it. Never been there myself. Info on hotels and stuff?
Lois
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Lois -
the symposium is going to be downtown at the Drake Hotel. The ANA will be giving us more information in the very new future - both on this website and through their newsletter "Notes".
It would be awesome if you could make it ;D
Jan
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PS - Lori you can crash on my couch anytime - although the kids tend to snack there, so it's probably full of crumbs and sticky stuff. Hope you won't mind ;D
Nope, I don't mind - then I won't have to get up to eat! You need a dog - they do a good job of taking care of the crumbs! :D
Lori
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Looks like a few got missed.
Updated list: Phyl, Kate, Jan, Deb, Kay, Marci, Steve, Lacey, Sue, Cindy, Anne Marie, David, Lori, Karen, Cheryl, Tom.
And Phyl again, in case I forgot her. :D
Steve
After all that, I noticed I had not added my name to the list either <grins>
Thanks Steve:-)
PHYL
Kate
Jan
Deb
Kay(no better place to use free airline tickets)
Marci? (chocolate cake and beer for turning 50
Steve
Sue
Anne Marie wants to be there
Lori
Arushi
Cheryl R.
Meagan
LA David
Lacey
Tom
Sue
Karen
Lois
My how we are growing:-)
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Kate -
how funny leaving off your own name :D and then none of us noticed it :P
Don't want to leave you out :o
Jan
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Was shopping my heart out with a friend (we were there for a conference but ditched the afternoon sessions to shop.) It was November, and holiday shopping was in full swing. After hitting up several stores, my husband (who I assumed was safely back in Ohio and unaware of aforementioned shopping) called me on my cell to ask me where I was and what I was doing. Alas, I was busted and had to fess up because the credit card company called him to alert him to a spate of charges in Chicago! I had this conversation with him with many people around me and these perfectly nice complete strangers were laughing themselves silly just listening to me grovel. Holiday spirit I guess.
Now when I go out of town I warn the American Express people. I also told them it they ever called my husband again I would kill them in their sleep.
:D
And Kate, I agree. Chicago has it all and remains one of my favorite US cities.
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Marci~
Love it!!
What is a girl suppose to do, I ask?? :o
K
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Marci,
Isn't it nice that you can be the source of entertainment for so many?
And what were those credit card people thinking? Calling the husband?? :D
Lori
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Insider info here......thank goodness they did call the home phone number on your file. They are doing their job and protecting you from credit card fraud. They really do watch for any irregular charges. So all those that are going to attend the ANA Convention in Chicago next August, notify your credit company and shop until you drop!!!! Or you can be like my cousin and when you make an ATM withdrawal take an extra $20.00 or $40.00 and put into the coffee pot or tea pot of your good china set that's in the china cabinet. You'd be amazed at how much $$$$ she has collecting for shopping emergencies. For Teresa it avoids an argument no extra charges on the credit card bill. Gosh that woman can shop!!!
Trust me I'm not like that I'm a banker remember, I watch all of accounts with eagle eyes ::)
Anne Marie
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Discover called our house once because two charges were made at Staples just a few minutes apart. I guess they thought my husband might have left my card behind and another person used it. I explained that he often splits business and personal purchases. I called my husband right away to make sure I was right -- and I was.
They also called once when he was on a business trip to make sure the expenses were valid -- like your Chicago story, Marci. I wonder who writes the programs to flag questionable charges. Are we really that predictable?
I had to notify our bank when my daughter and I went to Costa Rica, or they would not have allowed any ATM transactions. It was a pain because I found out at the last minute, but the safeguards are there for our protection.
Sara
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I got a call once when I bought my nephew a Play Station Portable at a local electronics store, then went and filled up the tank. Apparently stocking up on electronic goods and then filling up the getaway car is an MO of credit card robbers. :o
I think we all figured that Kate and Jan were automatic entries, since we are all camping in their living rooms the night before the conference starts. ;D
Steve
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As is purchasing outfits at Ann Taylor immediately followed by Sephora (make-up) and Starbucks. If that's not an MO for credit card fraud I don't know what is!
On the other hand, had I phoned my bank before traveling to the Netherlands last year I would have learned that my visa/atm card was invalid there because that country is on some kind of a list. Must be the prostitution and drugs, but really, we were there as tourists and practically ran out of cash. Learned that lesson. But Amsterdam, who would have thought?
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No problem on camping in my living room, Steve. Just don't ask to stay in my basement - it will probably still be full of water in August ::)
BTW, mind if I ask what cost more the Playstation or the tank of gas? :D
Marci, since my birthday is in September and Lori's is in October, we'll both be giving you our wish lists in August so you can buy our very expensive gifts in downtown Chicago ;D
A few suggestions - Tiffanys, Godiva, The Hershey's Store.
Am I'm leaving out any of your favorites, Lori? I hear Marci has some very large limits on her credit cards - should be plenty of presents for both of us ;)
Jan
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Discover Card caught not 1, but 2 frauds on my accts.... 1 of them... some twit in NJ used my acct number over Christmas shopping timeframe and bought $3300 worth of jewelry on my acct. Discover caught it before me, their Fraud Dept phoned me to ask me about it... told them I hadn't been to NJ in over 20 yrs... go figure. Also maintain cc fraud protection on my home owners to play it safe.
There was some Symposium updates in this issue of "Notes"... .sounds like December is the time to do all the bookings. Not sure if the bloke can make the trip but as it stands today, I'll (hopefully) be there.
Phyl
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"Hopefully?" Phyl :o
You are one of the numerous forumites I'm looking forward to meeting - I hope your response turns into more than a "hopefully".
Still haven't gotten my issues of Notes, as it seems I'm always among the last - is this somehow tied to the number of hijackings on the forum? If I don't "behave", I get my issue late? LOL
Anyway, will the info from the December issue be on this website also? I'm a little concerned here, because I'll probably get my December issue in February ::)
Jan - trying to be "better" ;)
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I'm thinking that as long as Marci calls her credit card company, then she can just pick up the tab for our shopping spree. No point in all of us bothering those poor credit card people. And Anne Marie can just bring some of that American cash down from the bank! Looks like we're all set.
Jan, I think everyone will be able to find some nice gifts for us at those stores you mentioned. I'm easy to please! ;)
Phyl, if you're not there, we will use Marci's credit card to rent a bus to drive to Mass. to get you!!
Lori
P.S. Anne Marie - I sent you a few PM's in response to yours - did you get them? I'm not ignoring you!!
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Yes I did!!! Thanks
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gonna try my best. If the sun and moon and stars all align perfectly, then I'll be there! :) Working the details now to see if I can go. Will advise... and instead of renting a bus, can we make it an RV? :)
xo
Phyl
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Oh, sure.. an RV it is. Marci says money is no object! Right Marci? ;D
Lori
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There was some Symposium updates in this issue of "Notes"... .sounds like December is the time to do all the bookings. Not sure if the bloke can make the trip but as it stands today, I'll (hopefully) be there.
Phyl
My newsletter just arrived yesteday!
*double checking to make sure Phyl's name is still on the list* for convention...
Yes! and hoping her sulking has stopped cause my own name was omitted originally too!
*Starting to change living room into spare bedroom for convention slumber party:-)*
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YEAH...Party at Kate's... ;D
K
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gonna bring my piratitude jammies! ;D (if I get there.....)
BTW, got my hardcopy of "Notes" yesterday! YAY! :)
Phyl
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Lori,
Sure, no problem. Except that I might bring Brian with me, in which case all bets are off. Unless we ply him with alcohol.
;)
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No problem. Steve's buying the alcohol. Looks like we've got all the bases covered!
CHARGE!!!!!
Lori
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Kate -
you got your copy today :o No fair, we're basically located in the same place and I'm still waiting :(
I did get my packet of information for us WTT guys and noticed that the list now shows which treatment(s) each person on the list has had. Thought that was an outstanding idea ;D
Yea!!!! Steve's buying!!!!! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Jan
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Jan -
I really want to be there, just not sure yet if I can swing it, if not, I'll be there in spirit.
Wendy
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I will probably be leaving Dr Love ashore and would love to share a double cabin wiv another single wench (sorry scallywags) non-smoker. Save a few doubloons fer plunderin the boutiques that way!! I don,t think I snore but it may help if you are SSD cuz I do yelp a bit.
PM me.
Capt Deb
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rules me out, m'dear Captn... plus, not sure if da bloke be comin' or minding the ship in our absence. Still tryin' to confirm me attendance.
I will probably be leaving Dr Love ashore and would love to share a double cabin wiv another single wench (sorry scallywags) non-smoker. Save a few doubloons fer plunderin the boutiques that way!! I don,t think I snore but it may help if you are SSD cuz I do yelp a bit.
PM me.
Capt Deb
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This is a bump since there have been some questions lately.
And one of my own . . . given the very remote chance of an adopted stepchild being in Chicago over that particular weekend, would said adopted stepchild be able to drop by some function or another?
Sara
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Good question, Sara. Wish I knew the answer, but I don't. Hopefully someone who's attended another ANA Symposium will have an answer for you.
I have two children - age 13 - but I'm local so I'm leaving them at home with my mom while I stay downtown and attend the symposium. And, yes, get to have a nice hotel room all to myself ;D Life IS good sometimes!
Although I do confess to feeling a bit guilty about the whole arrangement since I'll just be returning home the day before from a 8 day business trip to San Diego. Where, once again, I'll have had a nice hotel room all to myself! (Can you tell I don't get a lot of "me" time? :D )
How old is the "said adopted stepchild"? Are we talking old enough to entertain him/herself in a large, strange city? Or are we talking "entertain me constantly, please"?
Also, The Drake is a very "froo-froo" type of hotel - not very kid friendly at all IMO - as in no pool! GASP!!! My kids were there when they were about 8 or 9 and didn't like the place at all - mainly because they weren't born with silver spoons in their mouth, if you know what I mean ;) In addition, my ex and I lived in constant fear that they would break something in the room. Let's just say that one of the things The Drake is famous for is "Tea at The Drake", mum. My kids are basically the Nickelodeon hotel type :)
There are other great hotels in the city though - even some with pools - so if you do bring your stepchild you might want to think about a different hotel.
Jan
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I would love to come... I will start saving pennies... I'll be back in the UK by then so would be about 400 quid for airfares so I too would have to share a hotel room me thinks... I am a non-smoker with SSD! Maybe Captain Deb and I could share!
I will start saving... put me on the maybe list!
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I agree with Jan. My mom and I stayed at The Drake for 2 weeks and although it was nice it was a bit stuffy. The last time we went on our Chicago Christmas shopping trip we stayed at The Talbot which we LOVED and so did my kids. It is still very nice but you feel like you can leave your room in casual clothes and not feel out of place! Great location too.
Angie
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How old is the "said adopted stepchild"? Are we talking old enough to entertain him/herself in a large, strange city? Or are we talking "entertain me constantly, please"?
Actually, Jan, I was referring to myself and whether it would be OK to drop in on anything. I'd love to talk my husband into a weekend in Chicago. To explain -- I've called myself "adopted stepchild" here before because I didn't have AN but hemifacial spasm, and the group has always been so welcoming. (Same for CROOKEDSMILE, btw.)
Sorry for the confusion, but thanks for the answer. It's good for everyone to know more about the venue.
Sara
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You know, come to think of it, I might be better off in a Nickelodeon type hotel too! I wasn't born with a silver spoon in my mouth either, but I do usually have a plastic straw! The bendy kind - I guess that makes me frou-frou and stuffy! :D
Angie, do they have good Christmas gifts in Chicago? I think I'd rather go South at that time of year - unless you're one of those people that does her Christmas shopping in July! I'd be trudging through the snow on Christmas Eve!
Lori
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Hey Sara,
If you want to go to sessions or workshops, you can register for a single day's events, if you don't want to register for the whole symposium.
https://secure.baxinternet.com/~anausa/registration_form.shtml
Other than that, I assume you can drop by and hang out in the lobby or bar and see who you meet. ;)
Lori, as far as fancy pants hotel behavior, the truly rich and famous do whatever they want, including requesting (or should I say demanding) a bendy straw if they feel like it. You just have to convince them that you don't have a silver spoon in your mouth because you don't like silver spoons. ;D
Steve
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Sara,
Too funny. I guess we are adopted step children! Never thought of it like that. I would also love to come but don't think I can make it this year. Would love to meet everyone! Chicago is such a lovely place. My favorite place in the whole world to shop because they have every store imaginable that little 'ol Arkansas doesn't have. Lori......it is so beautiful at Christmas time there. The lights, decorations, store displays are amazing, even the weather. The whole setting in December in Chicago is storybook and it keeps me coming back. Please post pictures for those of you that get to attend. (and do some shopping for me while you're there) I'll pm you my address so you will know where to ship it all to! lol.
Angie
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OMG, how hilarious, Sara :D
I thought it was a little strange that you were referring to "said adopted stepchild" but I figured I'd just go with it. You never know what family situations are out there and I'm sure there are lots of second marriages where a spouse isn't too crazy about a stepchild; so I thought that was the path we were going down ::) As Gilda Radner used to say on SNL "never mind".
Anyway, as Steve said, there is a daily registration fee for the symposium that would probably work out well for you. And you could always join us for drinks or tea - I for one HAVE to do the tea ;D
Like Angie, I've been to both The Drake and The Talbott, but if I had a vote it would be The Talbott hands down. As she kind of mentioned, The Talbott is the type of place where you can walk through the lobby in a t-shirt and jeans and no one looks at you like you have 3 heads. If you do this at The Drake, someone is likely to either faint, gasp loudly, give you a dirty look - or maybe even all 3 (not in that particular order).
Truth be told I was a little disappointed to see that the symposium is at The Drake. It's a wonderful place and all, but it is very stuffy and the dress code is a little more than I like to take on unless I'm working. I really don't like to adhere to a dress code in my leisure time, plus I'm sure I'll need to supplement my wardrobe prior to August since currently parts of it wouldn't fit into The Drake's standards.
I'm sure the ANA had their reasons for picking The Drake though. IMO it's a little more centrally located than The Talbott and it has a wonderful view of the lake. I also think it's a larger hotel. The rooms are very nice and the service and staff there are great. It's probably tailored to the "doctor set" more than your "average citizen" - but then again, there will be a large "doctor set" in attendance.
Angie -
you forgot to mention the horse-drawn carriages in the winter in Chicago. It's part of the whole lights, decorations, store displays, weather magic. I try to get the kids down there every year around the holidays. Even if you don't shop it definitely gets you in the Christmas Spirit.
Jan
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You mean I have to buy a new wardrobe for this function too? My goodness. The price tag just keeps going up! Although, really, I think it would be fun to make people faint and gasp!
Angie, you might wind up with some weird gifts if we go shopping for you! Unless you give us a list.
Lori
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You mean I have to buy a new wardrobe for this function too?
Probably not, unless you're used to Daisy Dukes and tube tops LOL
But my dilemma is, there are two basic categories in my current wardrobe - work clothes and "home" clothes. Sadly, as a single mom without much of a social life I'm missing that entire category in-between. Saves me lots of money though ;D
Since I don't care to wear my work clothes to the symposium, that leaves my home clothes. My home clothes - like most other people's I'd assume - are basically jeans, gym shoes, t-shirts, sweatshirts, etc. In the summer the jeans give way to shorts and the gym shoes give way to flip-flops or bare feet. I'm not certain the doorman at The Drake would even let me in - he'd probably tell me I was at the wrong hotel :P It's not like I'm going to break out the pearls, but I do need something more appropriate. Hell, I might even wear makeup! :o
Jan
Hey, it just occurred to me that I tell you people WAY too much about my personal life ::) LOL
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I can say with complete certainty that the doorman, as well as everyone else in a two mile radius would not only gasp and faint at seeing me in Daisy Dukes and a tube top, they would also die from laughing so hard they stopped breathing. Since I don't want to accidently kill off the people making our food for the weekend, I guess I'll try to find something else to wear.
And if you think you have a problem with work clothes vs. home clothes - I wore scrubs to work and I wear sweats and jeans at home. I'm not sure whatever comes in between those two would be any better.
Don't worry about telling us too much, as least when we walk into the hotel we'll be able to recognize you by the make up and the pearls.
Lori
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OMG! I am rolling on the floor laughing! I might wear the pearls just for you :D
I can say with complete certainty that the doorman, as well as everyone else in a two mile radius would not only gasp and faint at seeing me in Daisy Dukes and a tube top, they would also die from laughing so hard they stopped breathing.
Don't worry about this happening. Surely someone will know how to administer CPR. If one of the docs can't handle it, I'm certified.
We'll only need to make sure that the bartenders survive; the chefs aren't as important :D
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The last times symposium had many in very causal clothes. That is my whole way of life. I did have a dress for the banquet but don't even own "a little black dress" I'm wearing the same one I wore last time. LOL! Plus to a wedding in 2 weeks from now. Had to go buy some dress shoes Fri as no way would I try high heels. Our granddaughter is going to be a flower girl so exciting time. Watch out I am the grandma with pictures when it comes symposium time.
Cheryl R
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Cheryl -
I'm expecting to see grandchildren pictures, so you'd better bring lots ;D
I don't own a little black dress either - IMO little black dresses are boring and overrated. The last dress I purchased for the banquet at the meeting I attended for work was green. I always have to be different ::)
Don't get me wrong, I'm not going to get all dolled up for the symposium - although I might wear the pearls just to impress Lori ;) - but I need to get something that is casual but acceptable. Sadly, pajama pants just won't work there :P
Jan
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What is wrong with pearls?? I LOVE pearls - I have them on right now, in fact, with my Land's End T-shirt!! OK, I will admit that I wore them to church this morning, but I wear them a LOT with a lot of different outfits. I guess I think pearls will make everything better - whether they really go with the outfit or not! I am not a "Bree" (more of a Lynette), but like to sport my pearls - I actually have them on in my picture with my T & blue hat!!!
SO, IF I am there, I'm sure I might have on pearls most of the time!! ;D
K
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Confirmed.... I'm going to the symposium :D
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Yea! I hope I can say that soon!!
K
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If someone is keeping a list of people coming to Chicago, count me in!
Now, as I see it ..... I need to bring jeans, a t-shirt, a little black dress, pearls, a bandanna, and make-up and I'll be all set. ;D Did I miss anything? They say belly laughing is the best medicine and the Chicago symposium sounds like we will all have plenty of medicine! Can hardly wait ........ :D
Clarice
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Willie and I are also attending - and we'll both be wearing pearls ... with our jeans!! :D :D I have been sneered at by the doorman of the Plaza in NYC, so I am thinking that the Drake guys won't be able to intimidate me. And, my hubby is from Queens, so there's no scaring him.
Really can't wait to see (and meet) everyone!
Debbi
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Confirmed.... I'm going to the symposium :D
Good news, Phyl. Why are we whispering? :D
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Great news, Phyl - but does that mean Pooter loses his seat on the Moderator's Jet ???
Debbi - I can't wait to see you and Willie in your pearls :D Will you be wearing them to tea?
Jan
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Bumping me off the flight already and it's still a few months away! Hmph! I'm fairly small, so can I fit in the floorboard or something? I used to sleep in the floorboard in the car as a child. :)
Regards,
Brian
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whispering cuz last time, I was booked to go and something came up (like, um, my husband's permenant arrival to the states) and I had to cancel the symposium at the last minute and I don't want to jinx it this time... and btw, the Mod Jet is overbooked right now... so, if Pooter kisses up to the Mods, then mebbe we'll bump someone else off the jet -- unless my Pooter is ok with sitting in the luggage hold... but, the drink cart is staying onboard! :) See you all there! :)
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I didn't read through this whole thread (little spinny still) but what happens at the symposium besides the meeting of the (forum) minds? It would be so fun to meet you guys!!! Besides, if Steve is buying drinks... ;D
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Steve is the featured presenter at a breakout session on the rehabilitative benefits of knitting during the AN post-surgical recovery period. He will probably be too busy to buy drinks.
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That's all part of our master plan - we keep his hands occupied with knitting needles and yarn and then we grab his wallet and head for the bar! ;)
Lori
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Steve is the featured presenter at a breakout session on the rehabilitative benefits of knitting during the AN post-surgical recovery period.
I think I need to apply for a grant. Anyone know how to write one? :D
...what happens at the symposium besides the meeting of the (forum) minds?
It is my understanding that what happens at the symposium stays at the symposium. ;)
Steve
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Steve is the featured presenter at a breakout session on the rehabilitative benefits of knitting during the AN post-surgical recovery period. He will probably be too busy to buy drinks.
Very cute, Saralynn :D
And a great idea by Lori. Meet you in the bar ;)
Anissa -
there was a full symposium schedule in the last two issues of Notes which all ANA members receive free with their dues. For those who aren't members, you'll find info on the symposium on the main page of the ANA website.
Jan
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I think I need to apply for a grant. Anyone know how to write one? :D
Steve, that's a brilliant idea! Written correctly, it could subsidize your yarn expenditures.
Sara
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Aye-men! :)
That's all part of our master plan - we keep his hands occupied with knitting needles and yarn and then we grab his wallet and head for the bar! ;)
Lori
Steve, btw, Moderator Only functions are also being planned! I'm not just the Cursed Cruise Director on the PBW for nothing.... ;)
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Steve, btw, Moderator Only functions are also being planned! I'm not just the Cursed Cruise Director on the PBW for nothing.... ;)
No fair! You're just planning to sequester Steve for private knitting lessons while everyone else has to pay for their own drinks.
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Heh...heh.... there are only 4 of them - and we know one of them has questionable balance....I think we can safely crash the moderator only party! :D
Anyone with 2 good ears planning on attending? We'll need someone to be able to tell what direction we need to go to find those sneaky mods!
Lori
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Who wants to go to a party that is moderated anyway?!? ;D
Ernie
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I think Tea at The Drake will be moderated.
As for the party - NO WAY ;D
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I will probably come on the 15th and 16th. Not sure whether Brian will be with me yet, but I'm still planning on being there. With my hat.
;)
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YEA, MARCI!!!
We're all looking forward to meeting you ;D
Chicago in August might be a little hot for the hat though. But don't worry, Steve can just buy you lots of cold drinks ;)
Jan
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We don't have to wear the hats the whole time, but it would be fun to do a group hat photo. Preferably in the snootiest part of the Drake hotel, but more likely outside with the doormen. :D
Steve
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Add me to the list in Chicago. I have talked to Kaybo on the phone and a couple of others. I think Lori too. Looking forward to meeting everyone. Karen
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Group hat photo is a must! I hope I remember to pack it. :o There's a lot of time between now and then....
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I think I should whisper too but I'm on my phone so I can't see to do that BUT (I don't want to jinx anything) I think I got my answer tonight & looks like we aren't doing the family trip...if that's the case then Chicago, here we (or I) come!!!!!
K ;D
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Just to let everyone know, the chances of me attending the ANA Convention are slim. Boohoo for me :'( I've got money flying out the wahzoo with home renos and three sons attending college and university. So grateful my baby is going back to high school for a third semester of grade 12, so the bank account can fill up a bit. I also have a lovely holiday with my husband starting this Wed.
I am going to miss Chicago, but I will feel very connected to all of you because Wed of this past week I received a beautiful hand knitted purple hat from Steve. I haven't taken any pictures yet because my 2nd son lost the charger for the camera. He probably left it at a friends house, but you know its my fault because I'm always cleaning up and putting things away! Being a Mother is difficult sometimes :P I have to buy one tomorrow! I need it for my holidays. I will try to post a few pictures after I return home. If I win the lottery anytime soon my plans will change ;)
Anne Marie
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Congratulations on the purple hat, Anne Marie; I can't wait to see it ;D I for one am praying you win that lottery ;)
Keeping my fingers crossed for you Kay - what would the JKL trio be with one member absent?
Karen - I don't think I know you, but I'm certainly looking forward to meeting you. If you know Kay and Lori, you've got to meet me ;) :D
Great idea about a group hat picture. There are lots of fun spots in Chicago where we could take it - maybe in front of Buckingham Fountain or The Bean in Millenium Park.
Speaking of Chicago and the symposium, I notice that we haven't heard from Kate B lately. I hope she'll be joining us - it wouldn't be the same without her.
Jan
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I live in Chicago & hope to make it! I will probably be having surgery in early summer so hope to be (somewhat) rarin' to go by then (and where better to make my post-surgical social debut than an AN convention!).
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Lilan -
hope you make it to the symposium, too. Both my docs - Battista & Kazan - are speaking, as is Dr. Wiet (who I think you've already met) and his son, Mark.
Bound to be a very informative, as well as a very festive, occasion.
Jan
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Any interest in seeing a demonstration of standup paddling at sometime during the symposium? I unfortunately won't be able to make it. My Cape Cod Bay Challenge 2009 is August 15th. I have a friend that lives in Chicago though and he does standup all the time on the lake. The 1st three photos in this newspaper article are all of him.
http://www.examiner.com/x-463-Chicago-Photography-Examiner~y2009m4d1-Stand-up-paddle-boarding-Chicago (http://www.examiner.com/x-463-Chicago-Photography-Examiner~y2009m4d1-Stand-up-paddle-boarding-Chicago)
He says he would be happy to give a demonstration. Not sure how it would fit into the busy schedule out there though. Let me know if there is interest. He's a very funny and friendly guy. i'm sure he would make it interesting. If there is enough interest and it fits the schedule we can setup a time and place that works.
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He's a very funny and friendly guy.
Cool, but is he single? :D ;D
I think a demonstration would be great, but I'm not sure where in the schedule we could fit it in.
In addition to all the events, I'm also volunteering my time, so I don't have a good picture yet of when my free time might be.
But if you can arrange something, count me in.
Jan
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Just a chance, but I haven't visited my daughter since she moved to Chicago in October. I normally forbid leaving NH in the summer since it's the only decent weather, but perhaps a two-day trip could be planned. I'll just give and get cell numbers and hook up with you guys at some point if I'm there. Probably want to hang with Katie for some of the time.
Nancy
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NH in the summer months work... and hoping the "windy city" will provide a nice breeze on the hot August days.
Remind me to speak to the ANA about next symposium in Boston.... yep, works for me! :D
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No, no, Phyl...it needs to come down south to say...Alpharetta/Atlanta! Yes, it's a bit hot here in August, but...
Cindy
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No, no, Phyl...it needs to come down south to say...Alpharetta/Atlanta! Yes, it's a bit hot here in August, but...
Cindy
hmmmmm...
Pro list: I could stay with mom in Alpharetta (no hotel room required)
Con List: my hair can't take the humidity there in August (you've seen my hair!!!!!!!)
Pro List: reason to see the family
Con list: good reason to avoid the family! (ok, hit me for that later!)
Pro List: the ANA office wouldn't have to schlep the info and such all over an airport
Con List: gives the ANA office a good reason to escape to... um... Boston! :)
Ok, Boston it is for the next symposium! :D
remind me to tell the ANA office.. I'm sure they'd appreciate knowing! :)
Phyl
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Phyl,
You don't have to worry about your hair getting out of control - you have a hat! ;)
I think our hat photo should be taken at the tea! Pinkies up!
Lori
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OMG! That would be a total scream - knit hats at tea. The staff at The Drake would talk about us for years and years :D
Boston in 2011 works for me, Phyl. But I'd also like to suggest Orlando. We could all make a trip to WDW to ride on Space Mountain.
I haven't been on a rollercoaster since my AN surgery - maybe it's about time I tried it ;D
Jan
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Just for you, Jan:
http://dictionary.reference.com/search?q=loquacious
This is a great site to bookmark. I also use its thesaurus feature quite a bit.
Sara
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I'll second Orlando, but not for WDW, but Universal Studios. Way better coasters there, and you can buy BEER!
Ernie
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Universal - absolutely!
Let's not forget City Walk - Lori, Kay, and I can go to Margaritaville - Capt. Deb and the other Parrotheads, too! ;D
Great idea, Ernie!
Thanks for the link, Sara!
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Sorry but the 2005 AN symposium was in Disney World. Now of course it could be a repeat. 2003 was in Anaheim. You hear me say this will be my 4 th sympsoium this summer but now you know partly why. I would never have got my husband to go unless it was related to something like this. We had never been to Disney World so our Michigan daughter met us down there and she has been back 4 times now. In Philly in 2007,they announced the next one was in Chicago so maybe we will know at this coming one.
Cheryl R
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Okay, Cheryl. Now the question becomes "Where does your husband really want to go?" - after Chicago of course.
If you tell us, we'll all put in a good word with Judy V @ the ANA ;D
Actually I asked Judy once how they determine where the symposiums are held. It seems they are held in the city of the doc and/or medical group that is sponsoring that year's symposium. For example, this year's symposium is sponsored by Dr. Wiet (Ear Institute of Chicago) and Northwestern Medical school. 2007 was sponsored by the docs from Philadelphia - I can't recall their specific names.
I think that HEI needs to sponsor 2011 - that way we can all go to LA and meet David, Nancy and Lainie ;D
Jan
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HEI sponsored the Anaheim one. But some of them have been to all the ones I have been to. Slattery does the small NF2 session. They walked around among the crowds at Anaheim and I talked to Brackman and Friedman. Slattery has been a help that I know my neurotologist is right on with the right NF2 care.
Where does my husband want to go? No where and dare to spend money! Maybe back to Alaska. He was there on his own. We never went anywhere last summer when it was our 35th anniv and I had my hearing back. Think the last overnight trip was Minneapolis Nov 2007. Other than my dr visits which is usually overnight as see my sister when we are down in the area.
Now I would like Boston as have always wanted to go there too. Cheryl R
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Okay, I'm changing my vote from Florida to Boston.
I have a very good friend who lives near Boston, who I'd love to see.
Hate the airport, though :P
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Alright, alright, I guess Boston's ok if no one wants to come to Atlanta. It is beautiful up there!
(Phyl, my hair is already expanding and frizzing just knowing the humidity is almost here! I have told my husband for years that I need to move out west just for my hair. Of course, then I'd have even more snakes to worry about...but, I'm really getting off topic...sorry :-*)
Cindy
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Hate the airport, though
Jan,
Use Manchester, NH airport. I'll pick you up on my way down to the party!
Nancy
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Okay, you guys talked me into it.. The next one should be in Houston, TX. :)
Brian
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I didn't even know that NH had an airport ??? But then again, so does Rhode Island - I'm assuming :D
Pooter, I could handle Houston.
I'm all for traveling - and I've never been to Texas.
My brother lived in Dallas for a while - when he worked for RJR Nabisco - and although I had good intentions, I never got around to visiting.
We could get Phyl a cowboy hat to help with her hair issue.
BTW, I'd imagine it's hot in Houston in August. Got a pool? :D
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I don't have a pool personally, but if you can use your muscle within the ANA to get the symposium down here, I'll rent one if I need to.. :)
Just a popcorn thought, but we could get Steve to knit us all cowboy hats to wear.. Hahah..
Surely, it would be hot in Houston in August.. I wouldn't be so bold as to try and tell you that it's a "dry heat", but it's an enjoyable place with lots to do. I would even talk to my doctor about presenting.
Have I convinced anyone yet? :)
Brian
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Well, I'm there - if you spring for the pool
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Jan,
I think you just parachute out over RI if you need to go there. ;D And now that I think about it, I hate the airports at all of the above mentioned cities. Well, except for Alaska - never been there....brrrrr.. I'll put in my request now for the Moderator Jet for the NEXT symposium.
I think it should be in Virginia Beach so I won't have to travel at all! And who needs a pool when you've got a great big ocean?
Lori
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I was thinking Houston earlier and I will provide a pool - I have direct access to 2 and they are both quite large!! I bet I could get Dr. Byrne to come so he could see his good friend!
K
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The Pacific Northwest, Skamania Lodge in particular, is clearly the best choice of all. Maybe OHSU would care to sponsor it. ;D
Steve
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OOOHHH...I want to go to Seattle... ;D
K
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Well, I'm actually going to Seattle next August on business - this year it's San Diego - but Atlanta, Houston, and Virginia Beach all sound great to me.
Geez, I sound like I actually have a choice in this matter ::) :D
Someone forward this thread to Judy V - quick; before the decision is made ;D
Lori -
if you like big airports - and I do mean BIG - you'll love O'Hare. The United terminal alone is amazing! And everything is connected - not at all like Boston :P
Have I mentioned I don't like the Boston airport? Oh yeah, and that pink one that's in Florida somewhere. Is it Miami?
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Yes, I was stuck in O'Hare for 8 hours with 3 kids a few years ago. Very pleasant memories of that....I don't recall Miami airport being pink, but I remember having to walk 50 miles to get to the baggage claim and the rental cars. I know the airport in Key West is pink and so is the one in Montego Bay, Jamaica.
I actually like the one here in Nashville and the one in Virginia Beach - just the right size. And the people here have a good sense of humor because over the defibrillators, there's a sign that says "For your Achy Breaky Heart" with a big arrow. How creative they are here in Music City.
I'll go to Seattle if you promise it won't rain.
Lori
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O'Hare? 9 hours? 3 kids? Now THERE'S some fun ;D Glad it was you and not me :D
Never actually saw the Key West airport. When we went, the winds were so bad - tropical storm brewing - that they wouldn't let us get on the little plan to fly there. We had to take a bus - compliments of United Airlines :P I remember being so ticked off that I didn't fly United for years - like the weather was their fault LOL The seven mile bridge seemed like it was 27 miles! But the trip to Captain Tony's Saloon the next day kind of made me forget all about that nice bus ride ;)
Maybe the pink airport I recall is in Fort Lauderdale? Or maybe I'm just thinking about all those pink plastic flamingoes that grace the front lawns in some Florida suburbs ::)
I've never been to Music City - so that would be fine with me. We could all go to Dollywood or Opryland - I hear the Opryland Hotel is very nice. And while I'm not a Billy Ray Cyrus fan, even I have to admit the signs over the shock boxes sound pretty clever.
If it rains in Seattle, Steve can provide us all with rain bonnets. Afterall, he's our official hat guy 8)
Jan
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Never rains in the PacNW in the summer, just all fall, winter, and spring! ;D
I vote for Portland, ME. Clambake on the beach (That means lobsta and corn on the cob, yum!).
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Oh Nancy - only been to Maine once, but i LOVE lobsta! And while i was there in early August 2006, it was 100+ degrees at my home in VA.
Lori - VA Beach sounds really good! (I am biased being from VA as well!)
So many good possibilities!
DC would be interesting, and has 3 major area airports, lots of free museums, monuments etc.
The problem would be the heat in August - yucky!
OK - i am back to voting for Maine - anybody want to take a boat ride and see the whales? ;D
Then we can get a standup paddleboard lesson from Stoneaxe.
Lori - we could plan a 'road' trip and rent the RV, as suggested earlier.
Is the Symposium always in August? How about Hawaii in Sept? (Nice thought, but yes, i am kidding....)
Sue
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The previous symposiums I have been to were 2 in June and one in July. They have already been in Dallas,Milwaukee and Cincinnati but not ones I have been to. I know some other places but am not sure where.
Cheryl R
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Oh, I love Maine - as long as it's not in the winter!
All the lobstah you can eat! Mmmmmmm!!!!
Lori
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whales?
Me!
Hawaii in Sept?
How about Hawaii in January?
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Lobster sounds great - but some of us would have a few problems with the corn on the cob!! I LOVE it but don't eat it in public! ;) HOWEVER, if no one would laugh at me...
K
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if no one would laugh at me...
Are you kidding? You must be unaware of the tradition of a clam bake in which everyone wears BIBS! No one will notice the corn stuck on your face, darlin'.
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Kaybo -
we may laugh with you, but we would never laugh at you :o
Jan
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We'll bring extra napkins! :D Lots and lots of them.
Lori
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You know, I am VERY good at laughing at myself!! In fact, sometimes I just crack myself up!! ;D ;D ;D
K
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Actually K I think you should just relax on the couch in your hotel room and we can just carry out for you ;)
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NancyMc - the whale reference was not meant to be you! ;D
And Hawaii in January is fine as long as it is not humid - my boss went last April and said it was humid.
I didn't notice the humidity in Sept... However, the plane ride is SOOOO long from the East Coast!
(Can you beam me over, Scotty??!!)
BVI would be closer, i agree! - then would we have to call it an 'international symposium?' Why not?
I didn't know you had been there before - it was AWESOME! I was fortunate to also have Anegada lobster, YUM!
Cheryl - thank you for the information about past symposiums and where and when they were held. I am still 'new' to this game!
There are so many wonderful future venues to choose from!
Lori - if we go to Maine, i will help with the extra napkins! ::)
Sue
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If it comes anywhere near New England its standup paddleboard lessons for all.....bring your bathing suits.... ;D...or Hawaii in January too for that matter....Maui preferably.... ;D
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He's a very funny and friendly guy.
Cool, but is he single? :D ;D
I think a demonstration would be great, but I'm not sure where in the schedule we could fit it in.
In addition to all the events, I'm also volunteering my time, so I don't have a good picture yet of when my free time might be.
But if you can arrange something, count me in.
Jan
LOL...no he's not single... ::), very happily married. I guess from the limited response (except for Jan looking for a cool paddle surfing dude.. ;)) that I won't worry about scheduling anything. If you happen to see a short muscular filipino guy with a big smile on a standup board on the lake while your out there tell him Bob says hello.
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Cheri -
we're going to miss you - but if Pooter has his way the next symposium will be in Houston; very convenient for you :)
Jan
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Hi all,
The Drake is in a great location and is the host hotel. I think I read somewhere our rate for the ANA conference was $199.00 which is a great price for this location! You are right in the thick of things in an area called the Gold Coast and the Magnificent Mile. BTW, The Drake Hotel is renown for its high tea...
http://www.thedrakehotel.com/
I can't wait..until the dog days of August.
Kate
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Just an FYI, The Drake is a Hilton Hotel, so if you have Hilton Points you can use them to book a room. I am local and will be attending the Symposium, look forward to meeting you there.
Jeannine
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Hey, Jeannine.
Thanks for the tip on the Hilton Honors points. I didn't have enough to use for my room, but I will get some for booking - so that's good news! I think Cheryl R said she was earning points too for her stay.
I see you're a patient of Dr. Wiet. I am a patient of Dr. Battista ;D
Are you volunteering at the symposium? I am, although I don't know in what capacity yet.
Hope to meet you there.
Jan
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Jan,
I think I heard you had volunteered to buy us all drinks and take us on a shopping spree. That was very generous of you.
Lori
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Lori~
That is what I heard too...that's why I am coming!! ;)
K
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Damn. Didn't I tell you guys?? I lost everything in the stock market ;)
Guess we'll just have to go with Plan B. You know, Plan B. The one where Steve buys ;D
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Jan, I remember Plan B too:-)
BTW, an email from Judy Vitucci...
The early bird discount for signing up ends soon..Acoustic Neuroma Association
19th National Symposium, The Drake Hotel, Chicago
Register Now – Don't Miss the Early Bird Registration Deadline – May 15, 2009
Register now for the ANA symposium to receive the discounted Early Bird Registration Fee of $170 per person for ANA members and $190 for non-members.
Full registration is all inclusive and includes admission to all general sessions, workshops, Friday Evening Gatherings and Supper, Saturday breakfast, lunch, reception and banquet and Sunday brunch.
Highlights:
Education
Networking
Time with the Experts
Social Time
General Session Brunch:
Inspirational Speaker, Michael Gates Gill
Author of How Starbucks Saved My Life
5 Year Watch and Wait AN Patient
Click here to learn more about the symposium and to register online.
Join us by registering today. See you in Chicago!
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Kate -
I got that email too ;D
I've been registered for months, but I was glad the ANA sent it out.
I'm hopeful that many more will register - especially since they extended the early bird deadline.
Will definitely see you there!
Jan
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Hi,
Thanks for posting this. I haven't registered yet but still intend on coming, at least for Saturday and Sunday, so count me in on social things. Saturday is my 50th-I'm damn happy to be alive- birthday!
Marci
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I've got to get ours done but still trying to figure out free tickets. I got the confirmation that I have a free one but Dave has the same amount of trips but no free one ??? - I have to call SW today!
K
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Marci and Kay -
get those registrations in!!! You'll save some money if you do it soon - and saving money is always good ;D
Plus, we all really want to see you guys there!
Happy almost 50th birthday, Marci. You don't look that old (seriously) and I'm damn glad you're alive too. I'm sure others share that sentiment ;D
Hope you're planning a huge celebration.
Jan
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OK 0 I spent almost all day securing our flights (& trying to get our free tickets to work), booking the hotel and signing for the Symposium! YEA - I guess it is a go!! And want to hear the BEST thing?? I discovered that I have ANOTHER free ticket!! YEE-HAW!!
Chicago, here we come!! ;D The city (& the Drake) will never be the same after we are there... :o
K
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OK 0 I spent almost all day securing our flights (& trying to get our free tickets to work), booking the hotel and signing for the Symposium! YEA - I guess it is a go!! And want to hear the BEST thing?? I discovered that I have ANOTHER free ticket!! YEE-HAW!!
Chicago, here we come!! ;D The city (& the Drake) will never be the same after we are there... :o
K
See! Miracles DO occur!!!!!!!! YEE-HAW!?!?! Oy, remind me when I see you to teach you to speak Bawstonian! :)
Great news K! Truly! Finally get to give you the hugglez I owe you! :-*
xoxoxox
BTW, the Mod Leer Jet is now fully booked. Sorry folks... :D
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Hi,
Thanks for posting this. I haven't registered yet but still intend on coming, at least for Saturday and Sunday, so count me in on social things. Saturday is my 50th-I'm damn happy to be alive- birthday!
Marci
hmmmmmm.... so, sounds like the Conga Line is going to form behind Marci Sat night? :)
Will be great to celebrate your birfday with you in person! :) Steve's buying the first round! :D
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I thought Steve was buying all the drinks.
Do you think it would be ok to stay in another hotel nearby? I found a great deal about 3 blocks away...
Marci
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Marci -
guess I didn't read your post correctly. Didn't realize your birthday is during the symposium - thought it was this coming Saturday ::)
That's what happens when I try to post before my eyes are fully open - and just a note, the time of my post is Eastern time; Chicago time is an hour earlier.
Anyway, party @ the symposium sounds great to me. I'd say Steve should knit you a hat, but that's already been done ;D
Kay - I think you should gift that free ticket to Lori. She needs to get to Tim's place and pick up those branches and that bird ;) :D
Phyl -
how did the moderator's jet get booked so fast? I thought only you and Pooter were on it so far ???
Jan
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Jan~
I think that she is counted me but I'm having to "pay" for mine!! :D
K
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Yes, I could use that ticket....sure is a loooong walk to Chicago.....
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Well if K is paying for a plane ride, I say kick her off the Moderator's Jet and let her fly SW (nothing personal, K) - then take her place, Lori.
I'm sure Phyl would love your company. You can discuss hijacking - just don't let the pilot hear you ;) :D
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Do you think it would be ok to stay in another hotel nearby? I found a great deal about 3 blocks away...
Marci
Yes, of course. Some of us will be commuting. What hotel deal did you find?
Kate
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Kate -
even if you are commuting, please leave some room in your schedule to socialize with us all after the sessions.
Also, I have a question for you since you seem to have a lot of firsthand knowledge of The Drake.
Are reservations taken - or even needed - for tea?
Thanks,
Jan
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OK - so how do we know the dress for these events? I know we have joked about this some, but really what do we need...especially for Saturday night...what exactly do you do at a "Gala Banquet"? ??? I have to start thinking about these things before I have the girlies 24/7 again! ;D
K
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Kate -
even if you are commuting, please leave some room in your schedule to socialize with us all after the sessions.
Also, I have a question for you since you seem to have a lot of firsthand knowledge of The Drake.
Are reservations taken - or even needed - for tea?
Thanks,
Jan
Okay, I can hardly miss the slumber party. I've made my reservation at the Drake so I don't have to worry about the commute.
For those of you thinking about it, there is up to a three day cancellation with no penalty. They will try to upsell you (offer you a bigger room at a higher price, so let them know you want the ANA rate of $199.00) So even if you are thinking about attending, you can reserve a spot and make a final decision by August.
Jan, I would suggest making the reservation for high tea. It is a nice experience. I will look to see if I can upload a photo of it.
Kate
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OK - so how do we know the dress for these events? ...what exactly do you do at a "Gala Banquet"? ???
K
In Chicago, the norm is nice dress slacks at evening "banquets". (black pants, blouse or nice top) A summer dress would be appropriate too. Honestly, it won't be sequins:-) We'll have to see the agenda, but typically socialize and enjoy dinner is what happens at events like this. They may or may not have music. Sometimes I've been to events that include a short speaker. Maybe Judy Vitucci can provide insight.
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As the self-appointed social director ;D , here is something worth doing while in Chicago. It is the 60 minute architectural boat tour. There are a couple of companies that load by Michigan and Wacker. It is a narrated ride down the Chicago River (yes it is green) with explanations about the buildings (yes Sears, the Merchandise Mart, the Opera House, The Wrigley Building and the new Trump Tower are a part of the tour). You get a really nice introduction to the city. They also have an hour and a half Lake and Architecture tour which takes you into Lake Michigan and allows you to see the skyline. I would recommend getting the tickets online or early in the day for later sail times.
http://www.wendellaboats.com/chicago.htm ($22.00 adults, $20.00 children)
http://www.cruisechicago.com/
Walking Tours:
http://www.architecture.org/
Jan, your turn to offer a suggestion for those visiting the city:-)
Kate
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Kate -
glad you'll be staying at The Drake and not commuting - and thanks for the tip on the tea. I'll have to look into it further.
As for social events, there is tons of stuff to do and see downtown. I agree that the Architectural boat tour is great - I've done it twice recently. The museums are wonderful - especially the Art Institute - and there is a Pirate Exhibit at the Field Museum in August at the same time as the symposium. The Oceanarium, which is part of the Aquarium, is very cool - it looks out on Lake Michigan; and we also have the Adler Planetarium with their sky show. Buckingham Fountain at night with the lights is absolutely gorgeous and don't forget Millenium Park with the famous "bean" sculpture. Navy Pier is something to see, and the huge ferris wheel isn't that scary (enclosed cars that don't rock) ;D
For those who want to use Lori's credit card, there is lots of very pricey shopping on the Mag Mile. We also have not only a Hershey's store but a Ghiardelli store literally across the street from it. That's where I'd hang out if I had the chance ;) The House of Blues has a world-class Folk Art collection, so if your ears can stand the loud music, you don't want to miss that. Another loud place is The Hard Rock Cafe - but if you've been to the one in NYC skip it - it's not nearly as nice.
One thing I haven't seen - but am dying to - are the Tall Ships that come to Chicago in August and I'm hopeful they'll be on the Lake during the symposium. For the pirates among us, they'll just add to the theme. I'm planning to do a little research this weekend to see if I can find some info. about them.
I'll try to find some links to post on this thread very soon.
Jan
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There were several wearing black dresses last time at the banquet. Most women at all of the ones I have went to wore a somewhat dressy dress. I have no black dress but will bring a dress.
Cheryl R
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Thanks Cheryl!! Might be a good excuse to get a new "summer" dress!!
Jan, we will be awaiting your research - could you please include links?? ;)
K
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Yes, I will include links.
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Wow, Kate! Thanks for all the links; some great ideas. Were you a social director in another life? ;)
Loved your notoriety comment on the Houses of Worship - Willow Creek Church is the most notorious house of worship I know :D The Bahai Temple is gorgeous and well worth the trip - as is Holy Name.
I looked for a link to the Tall Ships and can't find that they are coming to Chicago this year. The most recent link I could find was 2006, but I was pretty sure they were here just last year. I'll have to keep looking.
The Air & Water Show is going on the weekend of the symposium and it's a great event - huge crowds, though.
http://www.explorechicago.org/city/en/things_see_do/event_landing/special_events/mose/chicago_air___water.html
And for entertainment I'm adding Second City - many famous comic started out there and eventually moved to SNL and beyond.
http://www.secondcity.com/?id=theatres/chicago
Also for those who want to shop but don't want the steep Mag Mile prices, check out Woodfield Mall in Schaumburg (need a car). Woodfield is billed as Illinois' #1 tourist attraction and the Chicago area's largest shopping mall with over 300 shops, stores and restaurants. I spent many weekends and many dollars there in my youth :D
http://www.shopwoodfield.com/
Other great places to eat are Ed Debevics, The Rock & Roll McDonalds, Rain Forest Cafe, and for the best pizza in town Gino's East. (Looks like a dive, but has incredible pizza) ;D
We've also got some big tall buildings with views - The John Hancock, the Sears Towers - although one of them just recently changed it name - and we have a new Trump Towers.
We should probably stop listing all the things to see and do or people won't have time to fit in all the symposium activites ;)
Jan
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Haven't come across specific info on Chicago Tall Ships 2009, but did find out that Chicago has an official Tall Ship named Windy that has firework cruises, pirate cruises, and how to be a sailor cruises, among other things.
http://www.tallshipwindy.com/
I also found this great site that has just about every type of tour imaginable, plus activities, in Chicago http://www.chicagotours.us/
You asked for links, Kay. Between Kate and I, I think you have plenty for a while :D
Jan
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We should probably stop listing all the things to see and do or people won't have time to fit in all the symposium activites ;)
Jan
Yes, I thought of that ;D Otherwise it is like saying, I'll have a little coffee with my cream... a little symposium with my vacation please ;)
It is also why Chicago is a wonderful place for a convention.
I will add your links to the ever growing list later so it will give you even more time. Gino's East is where I typically go for pizza downtown and I overlooked it! Yikes.
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I sent for a Chicago guide book and it came recently and also one for the Woodfield area which also I haven't read yet.
We have been to Chciago twice before and have been to the Sears tower in the day and also at night. That was neat. Has been a while though. We did Ed Debevics and our girls thought that was so neat as they were young at the time.
Cheryl R
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Cheryl -
I have never been to Ed Debevic's - and for some strange unknown reason I am dying to go ::)
Maybe I'll make it there in August.
Jan
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Here's a link to tea @ The Drake
http://www.hiltonebusiness.com/projects/dining.thedrakehotel.com/palmcourt/palmcourt_intro.html
If you click on the "Afternoon Tea" link you'll find more details.
Jan
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WOW!! Y'all have been busy!! Can't wait to check it all out!! ;D
k
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Well, K, you asked - so we delivered ;) ;D
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Does that mean that if I ask for anything else, you'll deliver that too?? I REALLY need a new car...not want, but NEED!! ::)
K
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Um, I have a dented blue van I could give you, but that's about it :P
I'd much rather be driving a Jaguar, but got to feed my kids and put a roof over their heads.
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We did Ed Debevics and our girls thought that was so neat as they were young at the time.
Cheryl R
Cheryl,
My kids loved it too! The waiters and waitresses are "rude" to you in a kidding way, such as throwing the straws at you, their tone of voice (to hurry up), call ya gramps or make fun of your age, tell you their name and to stop bothering them as they are busy!
It is a 1950's menu (meatloaf and such) and the food is average, but it's not the food people go there for. Every hour the waitstaff gets on the counter and dances:-)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=opZuKAFrBCQ&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G9V2XWj-JJo
http://featuredfoods.com/a-store/eds_p3a.pdf
Kids love it.
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With this list, you need a week extra! I've tried to include many "free" events or things unique to Chicago. Of course we have the chains too such as Cheesecake Factory et al... and a few of those are also included below..Enjoy! We are known for our skyscrapers (Sears, John Hancock, Aon Building, Wrigley Building et al) If you have a favorite place in Chicago, send it this way and I'll modify the list.
Neighborhoods:
Hyde Park (President Obama's neighborhood)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hyde_Park,_Chicago
Gold Coast
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gold_Coast,_Chicago
Magnificent Mile
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magnificent_Mile
Architectural Boat Tours (You will get a great feel for Chicago by taking this tour)
Wendella Boats
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BX7zxQuU_9Y
http://www.wendellaboats.com/chicago.htm ($22.00 adults, $20.00 children) (You will see the famous landmarks on this cruise including the Merchandise Mart (formerly owned by the Kennedy family), The Trump Tower, The Sears Tower, The Opera House and many more)
Chicago's First Lady
http://www.cruisechicago.com/
Walking Tours:
http://www.architecture.org/
Twice Weekly Fireworks at Navy Pier (free) Memorial Day through Labor Day
Saturday, August 15 show is at 10:15 p.m.
http://www.navypier.com/things2do/fireworks.html
Grant Park Music Festival (free) and ends on August 15
http://www.grantparkmusicfestival.com/
Chicago's Buckingham Fountain (free) in Grant Park
http://www.cpdit01.com/resources/buckingham_fountain.cfm
The Air & Water Show free---but you also won't be able to avoid this one:-)
http://www.explorechicago.org/city/en/things_see_do/event_landing/special_events/mose/chicago_air___water.html
http://www.explorechicago.org/city/en/supporting_narrative/events___special_events/events/mose/history_of_the_chicago1.html
Shopping
Mag Mile http://www.themagnificentmile.com/
Heshey Store http://www.hersheys.com/discover/chicago.asp
American Girl Store http://www.americangirl.com/stores/
WaterTower http://www.shopwatertower.com/html/index7.asp
Woodfield Mall (Schaumburg, IL--need a car) Chicago area's largest shopping mall with over 300 shops, stores and restaurants. Jan and Kate spent many weekends and many dollars there in their youth :)
http://www.shopwoodfield.com/
Lisa Lill Studios (only in a few cities) make a custom handbag
http://www.1154lill.com/home/
Museums: (You also almost need a day for each museum)
Art Institute (New Modern Wing opens this May--just in time) which also has a delightful outside garden cafe
Also visit the 68 miniature Thorne Rooms (dollhouse like interiors from late 13th century to the 1930s and American furnishings from the 17th century to the 1930s.)
http://www.artic.edu/aic/
Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) http://www.mcachicago.org/
Adler Planetarium http://www.adlerplanetarium.org/
Field Museum http://www.fieldmuseum.org/
Shedd Aquarium and Oceanarium http://www.sheddaquarium.org/
Museum of Science and Industry http://www.msichicago.org/
The Garfield Park Conservatory http://www.garfieldconservatory.org/shows.htm
http://www.garfieldconservatory.org/index.html
Lincoln Park Zoo (free every day) http://www.lpzoo.org/
Millenium Park (many free events)
http://www.millenniumpark.org/parkevents/Default.aspx
http://www.millenniumpark.org/generalinformation/
Chicago is also known for food:
Deep Dish Pizza
Gino's East http://featuredfoods.com/cgi-local/SoftCart.exe/a-store/c-GinoAns_East.shtml?E+scstore+ginos
Lou Malnati's Pizza http://cityvoter.com/lou-malnati-s-pizzaria-958-w-wrightwood-ave-lincoln-park-chicago-il-60614/loc/18207
Uno's Pizzeria http://www.unos.com/
Pizzeria Due http://cityvoter.com/pizzeria-due-619-n-wabash-ave-chicago-il-60611/loc/81590
Giordanos http://www.giordanos.com/locations.php
Hotdogs and Beef
The Chicago Hotdog (it will never have ketchup) http://www.portillos.com/portillos/
Italian Beef with Sweet Peppers http://www.portillos.com/portillos/
Sushi:
Sushi Samba
http://www.sushisamba.com/index.cfm/id/10/id2/28.html
Japonais
http://www.japonaischicago.com/
Rush Street Restaurants
Gibsons Steakhouse http://www.gibsonssteakhouse.com/
Hugos Frog Bar (Seafood) http://chicago.metromix.com/bars-and-clubs/seafood/hugos-frog-bar-rush-and-division/136137/content
Greek Islands (http://www.greekislands.net/).
Ed Debevics 1950's menu known for "rude" waitstaff (purposeful) with hourly dance routines on the counter
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G9V2XWj-JJo
http://featuredfoods.com/a-store/eds_p3a.pdf
Hard Rock Cafe
HighTea at the Drake
http://www.hiltonebusiness.com/projects/dining.thedrakehotel.com/palmcourt/palmcourt_intro.html
Theatre
In addition to Broadway productions you might check out the Looking Glass Theatre (David Schwimmer from Friends is associated with this one)
http://lookingglasstheatre.org/content/
Blue Man Group http://www.blueman.com/about http://www.blueman.com/tickets/chicago
Broadway tickets (some theaters have same day reduced pricing)
http://www.broadwayinchicago.com/
Second City (comedy--SNL products came from this troupe including John Belushi)
http://www.secondcity.com/?id=theatres/chicago
Chicago Cubs http://chicago.cubs.mlb.com/index.jsp?c_id=chc
Chicago White Sox http://chicago.whitesox.mlb.com/index.jsp?c_id=cws
House of Blues Edwin McCain is the headliner on August 15 http://www.houseofblues.com/tickets/eventdetail.php?eventid=57222
Also known for its Sunday Gospel Brunch 10:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. seatings http://www.houseofblues.com/venues/clubvenues/chicago/gospelbrunch.asp
Nightlife
Lounge with a city view:The Signature Room at the top of the Hancock
http://www.signatureroom.com/
Pubbyhttp://chicago.citysearch.com/profile/41814298/chicago_il/mcfadden_s_restaurant_and_saloon.html
Howl at the Moon (gregarious dueling pianos--lots of whole room audience participation)
http://www.howlatthemoon.com/
Buddy Guys Legends (blues club)
http://www.buddyguys.com/
Outside of New Orleans, Chicago is known for jazz and blues
http://www.10best.com/Chicago,IL/Nightlife/Jazz_&_Blues_Clubs/
Clubby:
http://chicago.metromix.com/bars-and-clubs/seafood/tavern-on-rush-rush-and-division/137048/content
http://www.huntclubchicago.com/
Super Club Level
Enclave http://www.enclavechicago.com/
Lounge with Club Atmosphere
The Martini Ranch http://www.martiniranch.com/
Chocolate Bars (yes...really)
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/91822/best_chocolate_cafes_and_bars_in_chicago.html
Also one at the upscale Peninsula Hotel on Friday evenings
http://chicago.metromix.com/bars-and-clubs/restaurant/chocolate-bar-at-the-river-north/144839/content
Worship Listed because of notoriety
Holy Name Cathedral http://www.holynamecathedral.org/menu.htm
Bahaii Temple for North American Worship (need a car for this one) http://www.bahai.us/bahai-temple 1 of 7 temples in the world (also a beautiful drive down Sheridan Rd)
Willow Creek Church in South Barrington (need a car) http://www.willowcreek.com/
Lake Shore Drive
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qGQO7A0otOs
run, walk, or drive along this Lake Michigan geographical masterpiece
From the Drake you are steps away.
The list has been updated to reflect recent additions and a few more ;)
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I would add one of Chicago's classic Greek restaurants, such as the Greek Islands (http://www.greekislands.net/).
At least back when I used to go, you got recent immigrant waiters who can't speak English very well; lots of Oopah with the saganaki; useless explanations of the menu such as "roast lamb roast, braised lamb braised;" just enough rudeness and chaos to make you feel comfortable and right at home; wine that tastes like pine tar (retsina) and liquor that tastes like licorice (Ouzo), and some really good sea bass. Yum. :)
Steve
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Steve,
I was waiting for your input as a former "Chicagoan". Done! I'll add it to the evergrowing travel book:-) Thanks for suggesting it.
Kate
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Kate -
thanks for the extensive list.
I was going to mention the Gospel Brunch at the House of Blues because I've heard it's absolutely fabulous and I've been dying to go. But I'll be brunching at the symposium, so I'll have to do the gospel thing another time.
Jan
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Kate .....
Thanks for the great list of "things to do in Chicago." The last time we were there was 10 years ago and many of these things are new (to us anyway) ideas. We hope to be there early in the day the day before the Symposium starts to do some sightseeing. Must save time to meet all of you wonderful people!!
Clarice
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Kate .....
Thanks for the great list of "things to do in Chicago." The last time we were there was 10 years ago and many of these things are new (to us anyway) ideas. We hope to be there early in the day the day before the Symposium starts to do some sightseeing. Must save time to meet all of you wonderful people!!
Clarice
Your welcome Clarice. There is a months worth of things on that list, so it will be hard to select. Good thing you are able to get there a day ahead of time. See you in August.
Kate
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Did Marci ever post where she found her hotel deal? I looked back but could not find anything.
Sara
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I don' think so - I would PM her...
K
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Did Marci ever post where she found her hotel deal? I looked back but could not find anything.
Sara
Sara,
I don't remember Marci posting the bargain she found yet either.
There are hotel sites that offer cheap rates...just make sure you are in the Gold Coast as that is where the Drake is. Do not choose O'Hare, Museum Campus, Schaumburg, or Loop et al... They will be too far for commuting purposes. For example, it is about one and a half miles down Michigan Avenue and over the river from the Art Institute or Millenium Park to the Drake. It is a "L" train (blue line) ride from O'Hare.
Hotwire has cheap rates, but they do not tell you the name of the hotel until after you book and then you are committed. They just tell you the general location.
Expedia and other travel sites show the hotels. Here is a link to Expedia's map of where the Drake is located.http://www.expedia.com/pub/agent.dll/qscr=dspv/htid=15092/crti=1/hotel-location-map
The Drake also has a map if you search their site.http://www.thedrakehotel.com/explore_chicago.html At the Drake there is a three day cancellation policy. You can cancel your reservation before August 10th with no costs to you. If you are remotely thinking about it, reserve the room. They will require a credit card number to hold the room, but it is not processed. Remember to ask for the Acoustic Neuroma Association rate of $199.00 even if they try to sell you the suite for $79.00 more.
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Just a note to Kate's post.
If you are booking a hotel for the symposium, you should book early. August in Chicago isn't a slow time of year - and with all the events the same weekend as the symposium, the good rooms are going to go fast.
So if you haven't found a hotel yet, you might want to do so ASAP.
Jan
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Who is attending the Chicago Symposium? The List of who is attending as noted from this thread... PM me if I've inadvertently omitted you. Gosh, Steve aren't you the better list maker ?<grins>
Phyl (ppearl214) LA David Jan (Leapyrtwins) LAMSue 23
Arushi Deb(Captain Deb)? Jeannine(JGR01) Sara (Saralynn143)
Kaybo (Kay) Kate Meagan JB ? (JoeBloggs)
Lori (Lori67) Steve (sgerrard) Clarice(CHD63) Lilan?
Cheryl R Marci (malegant) CindyJ Wendy?(wendysig)
Debbi Karen Tim Katie?(krbonner)
Tom (onebadass350bird) Lacey Lois
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Can't forget me! Cheryl R
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Can't forget me! Cheryl R
Of course not:-) It is good to double check though.. Right now I am just going through the fifteen pages and adding people and modifying the list as I go along!
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The year of Disney World, it booked up fast also and people ended up at some of the other resorts. You can always cancel if see aren't going to get to make it.
Cheryl R
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Just a note to Kate's post.
....August in Chicago isn't a slow time of year - So if you haven't found a hotel yet, you might want to do so ASAP.
Jan
The year of Disney World, it booked up fast also and people ended up at some of the other resorts. You can always cancel if see aren't going to get to make it.
Cheryl R
You are absolutely right Jan and Cheryl...
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Glad Cheryl got added to the list.
She's going to bring pictures of her grandchildren to show me ;D
Please add Tim B to the list.
Jan
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I mentioned to my husband that it would be really cool to meet some of the people who have supported me in my facial paralysis journey, and he said it would be great to go.
I looked at the symposium schedule and it seems that Friday offers the most pertinent workshops for facial paralysis. That will leave plenty of time for family activities and such as well. Plus I won't have to register until July 1 as there is no earlybird discount for the one-day registrations.
Will there be some forumite gatherings planned as well? I know many of you plan to do the whole symposium deal, but I'm mainly coming to meet my forum buddies.
Sara
P.S. for Steve: my favorite color is pink.
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Hi all,
The hotel I found is the Amalfi, though it is about a mile away from the Drake. It looks very nice and the rate is great. I may still try to find something a bit closer. Here's the link:
http://www.travel-ticker.com/details.jsp?inputId=tbug-details&slotid=3&cid=1e996624f38d4d032ee7f9f5d438476b&tid=T-TTK-0144&zid=Z-2202&encId=0bfcjan1pdy2878orxai&subLinePosId=0&did=&tracking=deal-title
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Saralynn, It seems at the past symposiums that everyone attended all the goings on,whether it was a large group session for all or the small sessions. Fri night was the most free as it has not been like this year where there are gatherings that has a medical person there and looks to be more free discussion and questions. There is the hospitality room which is I think is open earlier and people coming may stop to look at for what is going on or others they know. There is sometimes even people who do not arrive until Fri am. We will come on Thurs and do most of our sightseeing after the symposium. The symposium keeps one pretty busy. I do see that Fri has a Jackie session and also a surgical facial one. I went to one of the reanimation ones last time. The are so many of the forumites and in the past we found each other and sat together at the large group sessions. and talked at the breaks. Also sat at the meals together. The meals paid for aren't until Sat and Sun. Some know some better than others and they will probably plan some type of being together. I go to the sympsoium but while my husband comes with ,he does not go to the symposium. I paid extra for him to go to the banquet.
Closer to time it will get talked about a great deal and what may be done.
Cheryl R
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I actuallly am in the hotel business and I opened up the Amalfi....good location and nice ameniites....if you can get a good rate go for it....you will need to pay for cabs though and that can add up....you might want to try the Hilton Garden Inn for rates as that one is a bit more cost efficient (also worked there :0 )
Good luck all.
Meagan
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Meagan -
I'm assuming we'll see you at the symposium?
You're local so I'm thinking you'll be attending, but I didn't just want to assume anything.
Can we add you to Kate's list of people registered?
Jan
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Hi all,
The hotel I found is the Amalfi, though it is about a mile away from the Drake. It looks very nice and the rate is great. I may still try to find something a bit closer. Here's the link:
http://www.travel-ticker.com/details.jsp?inputId=tbug-details&slotid=3&cid=1e996624f38d4d032ee7f9f5d438476b&tid=T-TTK-0144&zid=Z-2202&encId=0bfcjan1pdy2878orxai&subLinePosId=0&did=&tracking=deal-title
Marci,
The Amalfi is a nice hotel. The rate is $109.00 per night which is $90.00 per night cheaper. Meagan is right that you would need to think about adding cab fare to the cost. If you cab it to the Drake plan on about $7.00-$8.00 each way. So if you go back and forth once it would be about and additional $15.00 dollars or so. Just things to think about.
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Can we add you (Meagan) to Kate's list of people registered?
Jan
She's already there :)
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For those that might have the time and be interested I just found out that standup paddleboards can be rented at Chicago's Montrose beach for a very reasonable $15/hr or $60/day.
http://www.kayakchicago.com/rentals.html (http://www.kayakchicago.com/rentals.html)
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Good morning....I think I am already on Kate's list for people attending....(just saw Kate's post :) )I am of course coming as well as my husband....we will also be volunteering and helping things at the conference....
Have a good day everyone...
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Bob -
thanks for the paddleboard link. I was going to ask Kate to find it, but you beat me to it ;D
Kate -
I think Pooter is going to the symposium - and possibly his wife, Jenni.
Meagan -
yes, you are on the list. I am volunteering as well - don't know in what capacity though. Wish I did. Need to plan all those social events we all keep talking about :D
Jan
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Jan,
I am having a meeting June 14th from 2-4 at the Downers Grove Library....we will be going over the whole volunteer thing....it shouldn't interfere with any social things as I too want too :) I was told it will be announcing speakers at classes you are already at....
Meagan
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trying to get ready to book my flights... looks like I won't be there for the full mischief and mayhem prior/post symposium..... trying to fly in Thurs night and fly back Sunday afternoon... and folks, I'm not bringing bail money for you all if you get yourselves into trouble. You're on your own! :)
See you all there.
Phyl
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I was told it will be announcing speakers at classes you are already at....
Meagan -
Seriously?? :o The last thing I am is a public speaker. Not that introductions are "speeches"- but YIKES!!! I was hoping for a nice quite desk job - you know, like checking in people @ registration, telling registrants where meetings are located, etc.
Both my docs (neurotologist and neurosurgeon) are speaking. I would love to introduce them, but I'm afraid my introductions would be so long (I think both of them are absolutely amazing) that they'd never get to their speeches.
Are you in charge of the volunteers and their assignments? We may have to talk ;)
BTW, nice profile picture ;D Great to put a face with a name.
Phyl -
there will be plenty of time for mayhem on Thursday night - no matter what hour your Leer jet arrives. In fact, we are planning to center the mayhem around you. You'll probably just find all of us in the bar - since Steve is buying :D
I think Lori and Kay are in charge of bail money - my funds are already committed to those who want to shop ;)
Jan
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Jan,
You can do a desk job i'm sure....they just gave me one example...the person who is handling volunteers will talk at the meeting....so you better be there!! and I just figured out how to add my picture after weeks of working on it.....so i am super pumped!! I am really looking forward to meeting everyone....everyone here are the most supportive group of people i have ever met.....
Meagan
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BAIL Money?? First of all, what little money we have is going to the Drake and besides - I plan on us raising some cane but NOT getting caught!! ;D. Phyl will be there as our protector, right?
K
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If we get thrown in the pokey, we'll just offer the cops a couple of Steve's hats.
Note to Steve - start knitting some hats in Chicago Bears' colors (navy blue and orange) ;D
If that doesn't work, I hear they really like Krispy Kremes ;)
Jan
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I wish i could make it out there for the info and festivities. Same day as my charity event here at home though.... :(
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Stone -
sorry to hear you won't be able to attend - but you'll be there in spirit. And it just gives us another excuse to raise a toast in honor of someone. I sure hope Steve's drink budget is a large one ;)
Hopefully you'll be able to make the next symposium, which will be in 2011. No location has been announced yet, but someone said we'll find out in August.
Meagan -
thanks for the heads up on the June meeting. I'll have to put in on my calendar and bribe someone to deal with my kids that afternoon. Downers Grove is too far away from my house just to leave them home alone - and believe me, no one would want them at the meeting. Let me just say that two 13 year olds with "much better things to do" wouldn't be pretty :D
Jan
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I'm sorry, is stand-up paddle boarding a required event? :o
Marci
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Ok, just made my plane reservations. Of course, I haven't registered, or decided on a hotel, but at least we know I'll be there! I'll arrive on Saturday afternoon and leave Sunday afternoon, so we'll have to party extra hard on Saturday night. ;D
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Marci,
glad to see you'll be joining us - even if it's only for a short time.
Sounds like we'll definitely have to party on Saturday night ;)
Jan
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Marci,
Glad you will be there!
Kate
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Kate,
Still looking for a hotel near the Drake but not as expensive (just on principal). Any suggestions? I have found several hotels with slightly lower rates but none close enough to the Drake. I may just break down and pay the big bucks....
Best,
M
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Marci. If you think you will end up at the Drake,sign up anytime for the Hilton Honors program. In time you should get a free night somewhere if you build up the points. Various hotels have different amounts of points and would think the Drake would give more than some smaller ones. We racked up some as the DoubleTree in Philly 2 years ago gave me more than most types where I ususally stay. We also have Choice hotels program and now also Marriott. Did these mainly since we have had dr visits and my times of being in the hospital. When I had surgery, we used 2 rooms some as our daughters were there too. Plus motels had hospital rates also.
Cheryl R
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My Michigan daughter and a friend are in Chicago for the weekend. They went to the Pirate exhibit at the Field Museum yesterday. Said it is good but not a good kids version. A lot of reading of stories and info with it. Thought I would pass this along as might be of interest to some.
Happy Mothers day to all also. Cheryl R
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Cheryl -
thanks for the tip on the Pirate exhibit. Good to know.
Happy Mother's Day to you too - hug those adorable grandchildren a few extra times for me ;D
Marci -
the Hilton Honors program that Cheryl suggests is a great idea. There are generally Hiltons everywhere - and they also own Hampton and Doubletree, plus a few other properties. I've racked up points in hotels from South Bend, Indiana to NYC - you can't go wrong joining the program.
Have you tried the Talbot Hotel? Very nice - not cheap, but perhaps cheaper than The Drake.
Jan
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Marci,
The Tremont (a Starwood Hotel) lists for $135.00 per night. The website shows old world charm.
http://www.starwoodhotels.com/gx/search/ratelist.html?propertyID=97510&language=en_US&brand=GX&requestedChainCode=GX&requestedAffiliationCode=GX&lengthOfStay=1&arrivalDate=2009-08-15&departureDate=2009-08-16&numberOfRooms=01&numberOfAdults=01
Because you are staying one night, you can honestly pick a hotel anywhere and just add about $7.00 to $8.00 each way to cab to the Drake. So earlier you mentioned the Amalfi...just add $16.00 dollars for the day for cab fare. Even if you go back and forth twice it would be $32.00 more onto the rate you found of $109.00.
I was downtown today and it was beautiful. Tulips lined the streets of downtown. I can't wait for you all to enjoy the city. It is Magnificent.
Kate
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Great idea, Kate.
I'll be downtown on Thursday - probably early/late afternoon - and will be leaving on Sunday evening; have to work on Monday.
Jan
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Kate~
We are coming in Thursday afternoon and now, not leaving until Monday (mid-day). Since we are using free tickets, I couldn't get a return on Sunday night like I had planned. We, then, thought that we would take an EARLY flight Monday morning so Dave could still work at least 1/2 day Monday, but we were not going to get in early enough so we said, "What the heck? Why get up early when we are not going to get home until too late to work anyway!!" We won't be able to do much that day but at least we can sleep in late - which will be GREAT, right before school starts again! ;D
K
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Coming down Friday around 7 p.m. and then leaving Sunday whenever....and I think all should sign up for Hilton Honors Points as Hilton is the best brand EVER....oh by the way, work for hilton.
Have a good day all, Happy Monday.
Meagan
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We will come on Thurs but will be afternoon latish maybe as are driving. That is the day the Iowa State fair starts so no corn dogs to bring. Leave Tues or maybe Weds. Haven't figured out the sightseeing and may not till close to time. Have reservations till Tues AM but may or may not stay past Sun actually at the Drake. I bet we would Sun eve but maybe elsewhere Mon night. I am hoping the Michigan daughter comes for the weekend so can keep my husband occipied some.
Cheryl R
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....oh by the way, work for hilton.
Wow, I'll bet you got a great rate at The Drake, Meagan ;) ;D
Cheryl -
if your plans will be taking you to Woodfield like you mentioned to me before, you should look into staying at a hotel in Schaumburg for a night or two. It will most likely be much cheaper than The Drake. Rates for hotels downtown are generally higher than rates for suburban hotels - you might save some money. The Schaumburg/Woodfield area has lots of shopping - obviously - and some really great restaurants so it won't be like you're "stuck in the middle of nowhere".
Jan
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I'm still digging for loose change in the couch cushions, so as soon as I have enough to book a flight, I'll let you know. My plan is to get there Thursday night and leave Sunday night, but we all know what gets planned doesn't always happen.
I'm also hoping to know what state I'll be living in at the time so I know what airport I'll be departing from, and if James' ship will be in port or out to sea, so I know if he's coming or not. I don't think there could have been a worse time to plan this symposium! I'm usually a planner, but I'm pretty much winging it this time! ???
As far as needing bail money, I plan on bringing a back up halo, so I think I'll be okay. Jan, don't worry, I'll visit you, Pooter and Phyl in jail before I fly back home.
Lori
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My husband and I will arrive on Thursday, leave on Sunday .... staying at the Drake.
Clarice
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More... Looks like there has to be a Welcome to Chicago party on Thursday night too! Does a reservation for Chicago Deep Dish Pizza resonate with all? Tell me what date you plan to arrive and what date you plan to leave. You can post or PM me. That way we will have the list of people visiting throughout the weekend.
Name Hotel Arrival Date Departure Date
Marci Saturday Sunday
Phyl Thursday Sunday
Kate Drake Thursday Sunday evening
Jan Drake Thursday Sunday evening
Clarice Drake Thursday Sunday
Lori’s plan (not booked yet)Thursday Sunday
Cheryl R Drake Thursday Tuesday or Wednesday
Meagan Drake Friday Sunday
Kay Drake Thursday Monday
Steve Drake Thursday Sunday
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I am getting SO excited!!! :o
K
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Calm down, Kay! You will not be able to sustain this level of enthusiasm for the next three months. Or maybe you will. That will be fun to watch.
And why did you not write in PINK? ? ? ?
Sara
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Pizza on Thursday isn't a bad idea, but I was hoping to snag a reservation for tea that day - if Lori will be in town.
Hey, Lori, don't forget to bring that file when you visit us in jail ;D
Jan
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Jan,
Tea can be afternoon and pizza can be dinner:-) There will be enough in town by Thursday evening to get together.
Kate
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Will have to see how far my social budget will stretch ;)
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Here is the write up for high tea which is served between 1:00 and 5:00. Social budgets will stretch further with pizza , but high tea is something totally different:-)
Thank you for your interest in Afternoon Tea at the Palm Court, the Drake Hotel. Afternoon Tea takes place daily in our traditional Tea Lobby . The dress code is smart casual and allows for dressy jeans but no baseball caps, sports wear and ripped jeans. Punctuality is recommended as each seating last approximately one and a half hours. Reservations are held for ten minutes. The price of the afternoon tea is $29 and that does not include tax and gratuity. An automatic 18% gratuity charge is added to parties of 6 or larger. A credit card is required just to hold the reservation, no preauthorization is done. Please note, however, a 50% penalty charge will be incurred if we are notified of the cancellation within 48 hours.
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I am getting SO excited!!! :o
K
K,
Tell us how you really feel ;D
Kate
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Here is the write up for high tea which is served between 1:00 and 5:00. Social budgets will stretch further with pizza , but high tea is something totally different:-)
Thank you for your interest in Afternoon Tea at the Palm Court, the Drake Hotel. Afternoon Tea takes place daily in our traditional Tea Lobby . The dress code is smart casual and allows for dressy jeans but no baseball caps, sports wear and ripped jeans. Punctuality is recommended as each seating last approximately one and a half hours. Reservations are held for ten minutes. The price of the afternoon tea is $29 and that does not include tax and gratuity. An automatic 18% gratuity charge is added to parties of 6 or larger. A credit card is required just to hold the reservation, no preauthorization is done. Please note, however, a 50% penalty charge will be incurred if we are notified of the cancellation within 48 hours.
Now, I'm use to a proper English high tea in England as well as Boston....... is there a link to the High Tea to see what they are offering up? If worth it, I may fly in earlier to partake (btw, typical High Tea is done around 3-4pm.... hmmmmmmmmmm....)
OH, for anyone getting ready to book flights, got a notice from American Air today that there are specials for flights in/out of Chicago OHare.... some noting $49-$69 each way..... may be worth a peek.
:D
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Hello,
I was just reading some of these posts and just wondering about getting in the newletter list. Is this where you find out what is happening such as the convention in Chicago? How do you get in this type of list? Where in Chiicago is this taking place?
Vivian
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I will be in Chicago. My 23-year-old daughter is planning to come with me. We will be arriving on Thursday.
I don't post alot, but I'm always lurking around, so I look forward to meeting all who attend.
Oh, and btw I love Chicago pizza!!
Samantha
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I was just reading some of these posts and just wondering about getting in the newletter list. Is this where you find out what is happening such as the convention in Chicago? How do you get in this type of list? Where in Chiicago is this taking place?
Information on the symposium: http://www.anausa.org/symposium.html
How to become an ANA member and receive the newsletter: https://secure.baxinternet.com/~anausa/membership_donate.html
or just start at the ANA home page and go from there: http://www.anausa.org/index.html
Steve
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Really, really getting jealous now...so wish I could go...someone must call me while you are all together at tea or the pizza joint, ok? Phyl, you still have my number? You can all just shout "hello" in the phone to me :D
Cindy
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Hi Steve,
Thank you for the information. You are always so helpful and quick. As for the hat, I guess I will wait my turn.
Vivian
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Cindy,
We'll give you a call and chew in your ear! :D
Phyl, thanks for the info on the airline... I think I can find that much in my piggy bank!
Lori
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Cindy,
We'll give you a call and chew in your ear! :D
Phyl, thanks for the info on the airline... I think I can find that much in my piggy bank!
Lori
Oh, MissyCindy, I got your number, alright! ;) :D Yes, still got it and can coordinate the call! :)
Lori, if you can musta' it outta ya piggy bank, kewl! I got the email notification from American Air today, so it must be going on for a bit. Granted, we are now putting in our requests for the Mod Leer jet and the goodies we need to stock up.
Steve, you wanted which cavier and which champagne on the Leer Jet? :)
Phyl
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Oh, sure - I'll be stowing away in the baggage hold of an old rusty plane while you Mods will be sipping the bubbly on your fancy new plane.....
I suppose we can catch a military flight and just parachute out over the Drake. Watch for me - I'll be looking for something, or someone, soft to land on.
Lori
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Dang. I'll be in Chicago on the 20th. Oh well, you guys have an Italian beef for me, and I'll have a deep dish for you.
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Steve, you wanted which cavier and which champagne on the Leer Jet? :)
Phyl
Oh, sure, rub it in :'( If you keep talking that way, we won't invite you to tea ;)
Lori -
you are in luck. The Air & Water Show is in Chicago the very same weekend as the ANA Symposium. So you'll just be a parachute among many :D
Kilroy -
make mine pepperoni.
Samantha -
glad you can attend ;D
Jan
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Now, I'm use to a proper English high tea in England as well as Boston....... is there a link to the High Tea to see what they are offering up? If worth it, I may fly in earlier to partake (btw, typical High Tea is done around 3-4pm.... hmmmmmmmmmm....)
:D
Phyl,
Come Thursday:-) It is equal to High Tea in London. Here is a link with a picture and more explanations.
http://www.hiltonebusiness.com/projects/dining.thedrakehotel.com/palmcourt/palmcourt_cuisine.html
http://thumb8.webshots.net/t/64/464/2/24/23/2873224230064719308TTmUfZ_th.jpg ( a picture of my neices two summers ago at the Drake) Trying to figure out how to enlarge it.
(http://thumb8.webshots.net/t/64/464/2/24/23/2873224230064719308TTmUfZ_th.jpg) (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2873224230064719308TTmUfZ)
Kate
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Oh well, you guys have an Italian beef for me, and I'll have a deep dish for you.
Shall we partake in an Italian Beef with sweet peppers or hot peppers? Wet or dry? <just wanting to make sure we have the right kind of beef for ya..grins>
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For those of you staying at the Drake, here is the link to get Hilton Honors Points. Note that Embassy Suites, Doubletree, Hampton Inn, and Homewood Suites are also a part of this hotel family.
This was very simple to do and it took less than five minutes...
Hilton Honors Reward Link: Click and then click again on "enroll now" on the mid right hand side.
https://www.hiltonhhonors.com/processLanding2.aspx?lp=Q2DblMlsUnited&cid=OM,HN,Q2DblMlsUnited,Q209
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I live a cab ride away, so generally speaking I'll be there all weekend. But I'll also be just back to work after surgery and probably won't do 3 or 4 full days of events. Hoping I can meet you all at some point -- is there one dinner or brunch everyone will attend? I'm interested in the Sun brunch so maybe will sign up for that -- and beyond that maybe I'll attend a half-day or two of the events.
I'm rather embarrassed looking at the lineup of speakers, as I've seen or consulted with half the doctors on it in the last year! It's going to be like being in a roomful of ex-boyfriends! :D :D :D
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More updates.. Looks like there has to be a Welcome to Chicago party on Thursday night too! Tell me what date you plan to arrive and what date you plan to leave. You can post or PM me. That way we will have the list of people visiting throughout the weekend.
Name Hotel Arrival Date Departure Date
Marci Saturday Sunday
Phyl Thursday Sunday
Kate Drake Thursday Sunday evening
Jan Drake Thursday Sunday evening
Clarice Drake Thursday Sunday
Lori’s plan (not booked yet)Thursday Sunday
Cheryl R Drake Thursday Tuesday or Wednesday
Meagan Drake Thursday Sunday
Kay Drake Thursday Monday
Steve Drake Thursday Sunday
Samantha Drake Thursday Sunday
Lilan commuting will meet up with us
Debbi (Willie) Knickerbocker Friday Tuesday
Karen Drake Friday Sunday
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With this list, you need a week extra! I've tried to include many "free" events or things unique to Chicago. Of course we have the chains too such as Cheesecake Factory et al... and a few of those are also included below..Enjoy! We are known for our skyscrapers (Sears, John Hancock, Aon Building, Wrigley Building et al) If you have a favorite place in Chicago, send it this way and I'll modify the list.
Neighborhoods:
Hyde Park (President Obama's neighborhood)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hyde_Park,_Chicago
Gold Coast
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gold_Coast,_Chicago
Magnificent Mile
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magnificent_Mile
Architectural Boat Tours (You will get a great feel for Chicago by taking this tour)
Wendella Boats
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BX7zxQuU_9Y
http://www.wendellaboats.com/chicago.htm ($22.00 adults, $20.00 children) (You will see the famous landmarks on this cruise including the Merchandise Mart (formerly owned by the Kennedy family), The Trump Tower, The Sears Tower, The Opera House and many more)
Chicago's First Lady
http://www.cruisechicago.com/
Walking Tours:
http://www.architecture.org/
Twice Weekly Fireworks at Navy Pier (free) Memorial Day through Labor Day
Saturday, August 15 show is at 10:15 p.m.
http://www.navypier.com/things2do/fireworks.html
Grant Park Music Festival (free) and ends on August 15
http://www.grantparkmusicfestival.com/
Chicago's Buckingham Fountain (free) in Grant Park
http://www.cpdit01.com/resources/buckingham_fountain.cfm
The Air & Water Show free---but you also won't be able to avoid this one:-)
http://www.explorechicago.org/city/en/things_see_do/event_landing/special_events/mose/chicago_air___water.html
http://www.explorechicago.org/city/en/supporting_narrative/events___special_events/events/mose/history_of_the_chicago1.html
Shopping
Mag Mile http://www.themagnificentmile.com/
Heshey Store http://www.hersheys.com/discover/chicago.asp
American Girl Store http://www.americangirl.com/stores/
WaterTower http://www.shopwatertower.com/html/index7.asp
Woodfield Mall (Schaumburg, IL--need a car) Chicago area's largest shopping mall with over 300 shops, stores and restaurants. Jan and Kate spent many weekends and many dollars there in their youth
http://www.shopwoodfield.com/
Lisa Lill Studios (only in a few cities) make a custom handbag
http://www.1154lill.com/home/
Museums: (You also almost need a day for each museum)
Art Institute (New Modern Wing opens this May--just in time) which also has a delightful outside garden cafe
Also visit the 68 miniature Thorne Rooms (dollhouse like interiors from late 13th century to the 1930s and American furnishings from the 17th century to the 1930s.)
http://www.artic.edu/aic/
Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) http://www.mcachicago.org/
Adler Planetarium http://www.adlerplanetarium.org/
Field Museum http://www.fieldmuseum.org/
Shedd Aquarium and Oceanarium http://www.sheddaquarium.org/
Museum of Science and Industry http://www.msichicago.org/
The Garfield Park Conservatory http://www.garfieldconservatory.org/shows.htm
http://www.garfieldconservatory.org/index.html
Lincoln Park Zoo (free every day) http://www.lpzoo.org/
Millenium Park (many free events)
http://www.millenniumpark.org/parkevents/Default.aspx
http://www.millenniumpark.org/generalinformation/
Chicago is also known for food:
Deep Dish Pizza
Gino's East http://featuredfoods.com/cgi-local/SoftCart.exe/a-store/c-GinoAns_East.shtml?E+scstore+ginos
Lou Malnati's Pizza http://cityvoter.com/lou-malnati-s-pizzaria-958-w-wrightwood-ave-lincoln-park-chicago-il-60614/loc/18207
Uno's Pizzeria http://www.unos.com/
Pizzeria Due http://cityvoter.com/pizzeria-due-619-n-wabash-ave-chicago-il-60611/loc/81590
Giordanos http://www.giordanos.com/locations.php
Hotdogs and Beef
The Chicago Hotdog (it will never have ketchup) http://www.portillos.com/portillos/
Italian Beef with Sweet Peppers http://www.portillos.com/portillos/
Sushi:
Sushi Samba
http://www.sushisamba.com/index.cfm/id/10/id2/28.html
Japonais
http://www.japonaischicago.com/
Rush Street Restaurants
Gibsons Steakhouse http://www.gibsonssteakhouse.com/
Hugos Frog Bar (Seafood) http://chicago.metromix.com/bars-and-clubs/seafood/hugos-frog-bar-rush-and-division/136137/content
Greek Islands (http://www.greekislands.net/).
Ed Debevics 1950's menu known for "rude" waitstaff (purposeful) with hourly dance routines on the counter
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G9V2XWj-JJo
http://featuredfoods.com/a-store/eds_p3a.pdf
Hard Rock Cafe
HighTea at the Drake
http://www.hiltonebusiness.com/projects/dining.thedrakehotel.com/palmcourt/palmcourt_intro.html
Theatre
In addition to Broadway productions you might check out the Looking Glass Theatre (David Schwimmer from Friends is associated with this one)
http://lookingglasstheatre.org/content/
Blue Man Group http://www.blueman.com/tickets/chicago
Broadway tickets (some theaters have same day reduced pricing)
http://www.broadwayinchicago.com/
Second City (comedy--SNL products came from this troupe including John Belushi)
http://www.secondcity.com/?id=theatres/chicago
Harpo Studios (Oprah's studio) Tours M-F between 9 am and 5 p.m.
Chicago Cubs http://chicago.cubs.mlb.com/index.jsp?c_id=chc
Chicago White Sox http://chicago.whitesox.mlb.com/index.jsp?c_id=cws
House of Blues Edwin McCain is the headliner on August 15 http://www.houseofblues.com/tickets/eventdetail.php?eventid=57222
Also known for its Sunday Gospel Brunch 10:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. seatings http://www.houseofblues.com/venues/clubvenues/chicago/gospelbrunch.asp
Nightlife
Lounge with a city view:The Signature Room at the top of the Hancock
http://www.signatureroom.com/
Pubbyhttp://chicago.citysearch.com/profile/41814298/chicago_il/mcfadden_s_restaurant_and_saloon.html
Howl at the Moon (gregarious dueling pianos--lots of whole room audience participation)
http://www.howlatthemoon.com/
Buddy Guys Legends (blues club)
http://www.buddyguys.com/
Outside of New Orleans, Chicago is known for jazz and blues
http://www.10best.com/Chicago,IL/Nightlife/Jazz_&_Blues_Clubs/
Clubby:
http://chicago.metromix.com/bars-and-clubs/seafood/tavern-on-rush-rush-and-division/137048/content
http://www.huntclubchicago.com/
Super Club Level
Enclave http://www.enclavechicago.com/
Lounge with Club Atmosphere
The Martini Ranch http://www.martiniranch.com/
Chocolate Bars (yes...really)
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/91822/best_chocolate_cafes_and_bars_in_chicago.html
Also one at the upscale Peninsula Hotel on Friday evenings
http://chicago.metromix.com/bars-and-clubs/restaurant/chocolate-bar-at-the-river-north/144839/content
Worship Listed because of notoriety
Holy Name Cathedral http://www.holynamecathedral.org/menu.htm
Bahaii Temple for North American Worship (need a car for this one) http://www.bahai.us/bahai-temple 1 of 7 temples in the world (also a beautiful drive down Sheridan Rd)
Willow Creek Church in South Barrington (need a car) http://www.willowcreek.com/
Lake Shore Drive
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qGQO7A0otOs
run, walk, or drive along this Lake Michigan geographical masterpiece
From the Drake you are steps away.
The list has been updated to reflect recent additions and a few more
« Last Edit: May 03, 2009, 10:53:12 AM by Kate B »
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Don't you all be partied out by the time I arrive, ok? :D
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Kate, I swear, you are a wealth of info and a fab tourguide! Hope to repay the same when the ANA symposium (hopefully) comes to Boston. :)
Phyl
Now, I'm use to a proper English high tea in England as well as Boston....... is there a link to the High Tea to see what they are offering up? If worth it, I may fly in earlier to partake (btw, typical High Tea is done around 3-4pm.... hmmmmmmmmmm....)
:D
Phyl,
Come Thursday:-) It is equal to High Tea in London. Here is a link with a picture and more explanations.
http://www.hiltonebusiness.com/projects/dining.thedrakehotel.com/palmcourt/palmcourt_cuisine.html
http://thumb8.webshots.net/t/64/464/2/24/23/2873224230064719308TTmUfZ_th.jpg ( a picture of my neices two summers ago at the Drake) Trying to figure out how to enlarge it.
(http://thumb8.webshots.net/t/64/464/2/24/23/2873224230064719308TTmUfZ_th.jpg) (http://good-times.webshots.com/photo/2873224230064719308TTmUfZ)
Kate
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Phyl -
you are right on the money; Kate is a fabulous social director and an absolute wealth of information ;D
Boston would be wonderful - so talk it up with your "contacts" @ the ANA.
Jan
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I'm having a hard time deciding what to sign up for, since I don't know how much energy I'll have at 9 weeks out and have no idea which post-op problems I'll need counseling on, I'm of course hoping none of them! :D
Is everyone just signing up for the whole weekend? Is it easier to just do that and then pick and choose? It seems like a lot happens on Saturday and I'm also interested in the Sunday brunch speaker, so by the time I do those I may as well pay for the whole weekend.
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I think "Karen" is from that area & is planning on attending too.
I just signed up for the whole thing - unfortunately, the few things I am interested in, are scheduled at the SAME time! :-\
K
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High Tea? :-\
Bevies & Bickies? ???
Adorned in Knitted hats and pearls at teatime? :o
Greek restaurants?
Kate as our social director?
OH My goodness gracious me… ::)
Outrageous!! Simply and utterly outrageous you blokes all are!
I’m in…
;)
Daisy Head Mazy (AKA "4") ;D
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Saturday night, my 50th birthday, need I say more? :D Have made a reservation at the Drake....bring your party hats.
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Ok, looks like I'm staying at the Drake, arriving mid-afternoon Thursday and flying back mid-afternoon on Sunday (have to work Monday). I'll be slow going (when you all meet me, you'll understand) but looking forward to meeting everyone.... and celebrating Marci's *coff* 21st bday on Saturday! :)
Ok, take cover, Hurricane Phyl is blowing into the windy city.....I'm confirmed!
Phyl
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Still More updates!!! Looks like there has to be a Welcome to Chicago party on Thursday night too! Tell me what date you plan to arrive and what date you plan to leave. You can post or PM me. That way we will have the list of people visiting throughout the weekend.
Name Hotel Arrival Date Departure Date
Marci Drake Saturday Sunday
Phyl Drake Thursday Sunday
Kate Drake Thursday Sunday evening
Jan Drake Thursday Sunday evening
Clarice Drake Thursday Sunday
Lori’s plan (not booked yet)Thursday Sunday
Cheryl R Drake Thursday Tuesday or Wednesday
Meagan Drake Thursday Sunday
Kay Drake Thursday Monday
Steve Drake Thursday Sunday
Samantha Drake Thursday Sunday
Lilan commuting will meet up with us
Debbi (Willie) Knickerbocker Friday Tuesday
Karen Drake Friday Sunday
Lois Thursday? Sunday
4cm (Daisy Maizy) ? ?
Captain Deb
Tim ?
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Marci -
it will be an honor to attend your 21st birthday party. I'd tell you I'll bring you a Steve original, but I see you already have one ;D
DHM -
I'm thinking you'll have to wear your red hat and your disguise to the symposium or we won't recognize you ;) Glad you'll be able to attend.
Jan
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Saturday night, my 50th birthday, need I say more? :D Have made a reservation at the Drake....bring your party hats.
Awesome...What would you like to do after the banquet for your birthday?
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Ok, looks like I'm staying at the Drake, arriving mid-afternoon Thursday ..I'm confirmed!
Phyl
Awesome...What time is mid-afternoon (thinking about High Tea schedule:-)
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4cm (Daisy Maizy) ? ?
Arrive Thursday- depart Sunday (Symposium confirmed- flights not booked yet)
So what does the birthday girl want for her (uh hum) 21st? ...
DHM
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Kate~
I think that we are going to share a cab with Phyl from the airport as our flights arrive at the same time (2 totally different carriers!) - I believe that we land right around 3... ;D
K
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Very cool, Kay.
If you can get Lori to fly in about the same time, you guys can all share a limo. Believe it or not, that might be a cheaper option than a cab.
Note to Kate:
What's the scoop on Mary Poppins? Will it still be around during the Symposium? Musicals aren't my idea of a good time - my daughter and I actually dosed off during the last part of Wicked ::) - but I know lots of people I work with are very excited about Mary Poppins. If it's still here in August, maybe you can post a link for those interested.
Jan
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Kate,
I think a post-banquet get-together would be great. I'll leave it to the Chicago natives to choose location. I'm easy. And no presents. Just everyone's presence (including mine!) is gift enough.
Marci
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Kate,
I think a post-banquet get-together would be great. I'll leave it to the Chicago natives to choose location. I'm easy. And no presents. Just everyone's presence (including mine!) is gift enough.
Marci
Going to the top of the Hancock for a drink in the 95th (basically top of the Hancock) would be great if it is a clear night. (subdued atmosphere) Something absolutely gregarious is the dueling pianos at Howl at the Moon. It's your 50th....
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Marci~
It's your pick, but I think this group would be ANYTHING but "subdued"!! ;D PLUS, I LOVE dueling pianos and singing along at the top of my lungs where it doesn't matter how I sound!! ;) Seriously, we in for whatever!
K
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I vote for gregarious and not subdued. I'll leave that for another birthday, like 80th....
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You've got it Marci...It's on our AN Chicago Calendar ;)
When reviewing our weekend schedule it appears that we have the following times open:
Thursday afternoon for early arrivers
Thursday evening
Friday after the roundtable with a chance of getting out early
Saturday after the gala banquet: Howl at the Moon to celebrate Marci's 39th (ergh.. isn't that the age George Burns always used..who's counting anyway) birthday
Sunday (after the brunch and for those with later flights)
The Signature Lounge on 95th will get people to the top of the Hancock and kill two birds with one stone. 95 floors up is up there :)
So subdued with our group would be anything but boring and would still be fun!!!! 8) It will also allow conversation...Maybe this can be scheduled on Friday ... unless there is fog :( http://www.signatureroom.com/lounge/default.cfm?PID=15 (open until 1:30 am)
Howl at the Moon is gregarious because quite frankly the dueling pianos can get rancourous with their language. For example, they might have the audience join in to the song "You've picked a fine time to leave me Lucille" and insert very unlady like names for the audience to shout back. Here are some links: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UTtSbBkbkJQ (it's showtime--the start of the show) or http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u5CjiyXNobs&feature=related or http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dZilghosNKI (example of language) The atmoshpere will prevent alot of conversation as it is noisy!!! Here is the official website..http://www.howlatthemoon.com/the-show
It is just two different atmospheres and there is time for both over the weekend giving you the total Chicago experience.
8)
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My Michigan daughter went to Mary Poppins last weekend when her and a friend came for the weekend. She said it was very good. Also good was the Harry Potter exhibit at the Museum of Science and Industry. I asked her how long it was going to be there and she never emailed back about that. Looks like many are not going to get to do much sightseeing with just coming for the weekend. We will be but haven't figured it out yet.
Cheryl R
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Harry Potter will still be there; it runs through Sep 27.
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Howl at the Moon sounds great!!
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Howl at the Moon sounds great!!
It is open until 3 am :) There are awesome fireworks every Saturday night at 10:15, so we might want to start off the birthday celebration with a "bang".
I've contacted Howl at the Moon to find out about reserving a table or two as that is the weekend of the Air and Water Show. I want to make sure we have a few anchor activities booked.
There is a fee to reserve at Howl, so I am trying to find out the details relative to seating times and costs etc. I will let you know what the particulars are afterword so that we reserve tables for those wanting to attend with the group.
I was thinking that seating in the "40's" section might be okay..Others thoughts?
http://www.howlatthemoon.com/locations/location-chicago Scroll down to the table reservations menu. and then on the "map" link.
Kate
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In the 40's looks good. We are so fortunate to have you there and helping with all of this! Thank you Kate. The fireworks sound good too!
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;D PLUS, I LOVE dueling pianos and singing along at the top of my lungs where it doesn't matter how I sound!! ;)
K
I vote that Kay sits on my right side if she starts singing. :o
Lori
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Quick question. Just how loud is Howl at the Moon?
I know lots have issues with hearing :( Is this something that will be headache inducing?
Lori -
if we go, Kay can sit between you and me. I'm SSD on the left ;D
Jan
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Oh, and aren't y'all the funny, SUPPORTIVE ones!! Noises don't bother me so whatever is OK with me!! ;D
K
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Whatever, matters not, as long as everyone is happy. Wait, is that even possible?
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Being that I am one of the lucky ones ::) to have come out with "hyperacusis" since surgery I am not sure I could cope with loud music at the howl in the moon. Their website makes it look like a very loud place for me to avoid.
You folks do not know how lucky you are not to be inflicted with this.
If you care to know what "the curse" is
http://www.hyperacusis.net/hyperacusis/what+is+hyperacusis/default.asp
Someday even my own voice hurts my ears.
Interesting I can go to performances, such as a musical, but the loud pub scene I just cannot handle. Perhaps because at a performance you just watch and listen (and in my case wear an earplug while doing so) ... but at a pub you have to interact in a loud environment. I would be very receptive to the Mary Poppins Musical but will pass on the loud pub scene.
DHM
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I hate to say it too but there is no way I can take loud noise. I keep the remote by me and turn the sound down with commercials. I haven't even thought of going to a movie. The music playing at the past symposium banquets has made many of us unhappy as then unable to talk easily.
I am glad someone else made mention of this as it occured to me immediately.
Cheryl R
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We'll work something out - maybe a mixture of wild times for some and quiet times for others, and some middle ground for all of us.
Personally I'm more a tea person than a howl at the moon type. Okay, you can stop rolling on the floor and laughing now, Lori & Kay. I'm actually serious.
Although I've been dying to go to the House of Blues on a Sunday for the gospel brunch, I hear it's very loud and I've shied away from it. And, you all know how shy I am ;)
A few drinks in a quiet setting where I can have some conversations is more my speed. I'll also be coming back from a week long trip to San Diego where in addition to doing the work I knew I'd have to do, I now have additional duties due to my boss being fired :P
Jan
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Sounds like "howling at the moon" won't work, so how about something quieter? Then anyone with energy and desire can go to "howl at the moon" since it is open so late?
Marci
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Maybe Signature Room @ the 95th? As Kate suggested the view would be beautiful and conversations could take place.
See her prior post for a link.
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Just like a large family:-) I am certain that with a group like us, it will have to be a general format for Camp AN and then those interested can join in. Chicago places in general are loud because of the amount of people...With the Air and Water Show that weekend, the city will be very crowded.
Trying to capitalize of "free events" and paid alike, I have a rough sketch outlined below:
Your thoughts?
Thursday:
Thursday afternoon : High Tea at 2:30 or 3:00 (it ends at 5:00) we need reservations
Late Thursday: Chicago Architectural Boat Tour on the River ( 5:00 ish) (a good way to see Chicago and learn about the skyskrapers and buildings)
We will need to buy tickets online for the same tour time...
Thursday Evening 7:30: Gino's East Chicago Deep Dish Pizza
Friday:A.M. T6:15 a.m Those wanting to walk down Lake Shore Drive (walking path along the lake) for morning exercise will meet in the lobby (time to follow)
After the roundtable: Dinner??? and the Signature Lounge at the top of the John Hancock
Saturday:
Before the Symposium: Those wanting to walk down Lake Shore Drive for morning exercise will meet in the lobby (time to follow)
Air and Water Show is in town and you won't be able to avoid this if
Marci's Birthday: The Pritzker Pavillion in Grant Park has its last concert of the season??, Firework Display, ???? (Signature Lounge if Friday is foggy) and then Howl at the Moon (for those interested) See links below,
Sunday: Picture in Hats in the Hotel (or maybe this should be early Saturday morning and before people leave)
Museum Day
Pirate Exhibit
Mag Mile Shopping Day
House of Blues Gospel Brunch 2:30..It is a stage performance and of course music.
Air and Water Show
Depart for Home
Architectural Boat Tours (You will get a great feel for Chicago by taking this tour)
Wendella Boats
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BX7zxQuU_9Y
http://www.wendellaboats.com/chicago.htm ($22.00 adults, $20.00 children) (You will see the famous landmarks on this cruise including the Merchandise Mart (formerly owned by the Kennedy family), The Trump Tower, The Sears Tower, The Opera House and many more)
Signature Lounge at the top of the John Hancock http://www.signatureroom.com/lounge/default.cfm?PID=15 (open until 1:30 am)
Grant Park Music Festival (free) and ends on August 15
http://www.grantparkmusicfestival.com/
Twice Weekly Fireworks at Navy Pier (free) Memorial Day through Labor Day
Saturday, August 15 show is at 10:15 p.m.
http://www.navypier.com/things2do/fireworks.html
Chicago's Buckingham Fountain (free) in Grant Park
http://www.cpdit01.com/resources/buckingham_fountain.cfm
The Air & Water Show free---but you also won't be able to avoid this one:-)
http://www.explorechicago.org/city/en/things_see_do/event_landing/special_events/mose/chicago_air___water.html
http://www.explorechicago.org/city/en/supporting_narrative/events___special_events/events/mose/history_of_the_chicago1.html
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Here are all of the links as we try to target an activities agenda for AN Camp:-)
With this list, you need a week extra! I've tried to include many "free" events or things unique to Chicago. Of course we have the chains too such as Cheesecake Factory et al... and a few of those are also included below..Enjoy! We are known for our skyscrapers (Sears, John Hancock, Aon Building, Wrigley Building et al) If you have a favorite place in Chicago, send it this way and I'll modify the list.
Neighborhoods:
Hyde Park (President Obama's neighborhood)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hyde_Park,_Chicago
Gold Coast
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gold_Coast,_Chicago
Magnificent Mile
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magnificent_Mile
Architectural Boat Tours (You will get a great feel for Chicago by taking this tour)
Wendella Boats
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BX7zxQuU_9Y
http://www.wendellaboats.com/chicago.htm ($22.00 adults, $20.00 children) (You will see the famous landmarks on this cruise including the Merchandise Mart (formerly owned by the Kennedy family), The Trump Tower, The Sears Tower, The Opera House and many more)
Chicago's First Lady
http://www.cruisechicago.com/
Walking Tours:
http://www.architecture.org/
Twice Weekly Fireworks at Navy Pier (free) Memorial Day through Labor Day
Saturday, August 15 show is at 10:15 p.m.
http://www.navypier.com/things2do/fireworks.html
Grant Park Music Festival (free) and ends on August 15
http://www.grantparkmusicfestival.com/
Chicago's Buckingham Fountain (free) in Grant Park
http://www.cpdit01.com/resources/buckingham_fountain.cfm
The Air & Water Show free---but you also won't be able to avoid this one:-)
http://www.explorechicago.org/city/en/things_see_do/event_landing/special_events/mose/chicago_air___water.html
http://www.explorechicago.org/city/en/supporting_narrative/events___special_events/events/mose/history_of_the_chicago1.html
Shopping
Mag Mile http://www.themagnificentmile.com/
Heshey Store http://www.hersheys.com/discover/chicago.asp
American Girl Store http://www.americangirl.com/stores/
WaterTower http://www.shopwatertower.com/html/index7.asp
Woodfield Mall (Schaumburg, IL--need a car) Chicago area's largest shopping mall with over 300 shops, stores and restaurants. Jan and Kate spent many weekends and many dollars there in their youth :)
http://www.shopwoodfield.com/
Lisa Lill Studios (only in a few cities) make a custom handbag
http://www.1154lill.com/home/
Museums: (You also almost need a day for each museum)
Art Institute (New Modern Wing opens this May--just in time) which also has a delightful outside garden cafe
Also visit the 68 miniature Thorne Rooms (dollhouse like interiors from late 13th century to the 1930s and American furnishings from the 17th century to the 1930s.)
http://www.artic.edu/aic/
Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) http://www.mcachicago.org/
Adler Planetarium http://www.adlerplanetarium.org/
Field Museum http://www.fieldmuseum.org/
Shedd Aquarium and Oceanarium http://www.sheddaquarium.org/
Museum of Science and Industry http://www.msichicago.org/
The Garfield Park Conservatory http://www.garfieldconservatory.org/shows.htm
http://www.garfieldconservatory.org/index.html
Lincoln Park Zoo (free every day) http://www.lpzoo.org/
Millenium Park (many free events)
http://www.millenniumpark.org/parkevents/Default.aspx
http://www.millenniumpark.org/generalinformation/
Chicago is also known for food:
Deep Dish Pizza
Gino's East http://featuredfoods.com/cgi-local/SoftCart.exe/a-store/c-GinoAns_East.shtml?E+scstore+ginos
Lou Malnati's Pizza http://cityvoter.com/lou-malnati-s-pizzaria-958-w-wrightwood-ave-lincoln-park-chicago-il-60614/loc/18207
Uno's Pizzeria http://www.unos.com/
Pizzeria Due http://cityvoter.com/pizzeria-due-619-n-wabash-ave-chicago-il-60611/loc/81590
Giordanos http://www.giordanos.com/locations.php
Hotdogs and Beef
The Chicago Hotdog (it will never have ketchup) http://www.portillos.com/portillos/
Italian Beef with Sweet Peppers http://www.portillos.com/portillos/
Sushi:
Sushi Samba
http://www.sushisamba.com/index.cfm/id/10/id2/28.html
Japonais
http://www.japonaischicago.com/
Rush Street Restaurants
Gibsons Steakhouse http://www.gibsonssteakhouse.com/
Hugos Frog Bar (Seafood) http://chicago.metromix.com/bars-and-clubs/seafood/hugos-frog-bar-rush-and-division/136137/content
Greek Islands (http://www.greekislands.net/).
Ed Debevics 1950's menu known for "rude" waitstaff (purposeful) with hourly dance routines on the counter
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G9V2XWj-JJo
http://featuredfoods.com/a-store/eds_p3a.pdf
Hard Rock Cafe
HighTea at the Drake
http://www.hiltonebusiness.com/projects/dining.thedrakehotel.com/palmcourt/palmcourt_intro.html
Theatre
In addition to Broadway productions you might check out the Looking Glass Theatre (David Schwimmer from Friends is associated with this one)
http://lookingglasstheatre.org/content/
Blue Man Group http://www.blueman.com/about http://www.blueman.com/tickets/chicago
Broadway tickets (some theaters have same day reduced pricing)
http://www.broadwayinchicago.com/
Second City (comedy--SNL products came from this troupe including John Belushi)
http://www.secondcity.com/?id=theatres/chicago
Chicago Cubs http://chicago.cubs.mlb.com/index.jsp?c_id=chc
Chicago White Sox http://chicago.whitesox.mlb.com/index.jsp?c_id=cws
House of Blues Edwin McCain is the headliner on August 15 http://www.houseofblues.com/tickets/eventdetail.php?eventid=57222
Also known for its Sunday Gospel Brunch 10:00 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. seatings http://www.houseofblues.com/venues/clubvenues/chicago/gospelbrunch.asp
Nightlife
Lounge with a city view:The Signature Room at the top of the Hancock
http://www.signatureroom.com/
Pubbyhttp://chicago.citysearch.com/profile/41814298/chicago_il/mcfadden_s_restaurant_and_saloon.html
Howl at the Moon (gregarious dueling pianos--lots of whole room audience participation)
http://www.howlatthemoon.com/
Buddy Guys Legends (blues club)
http://www.buddyguys.com/
Outside of New Orleans, Chicago is known for jazz and blues
http://www.10best.com/Chicago,IL/Nightlife/Jazz_&_Blues_Clubs/
Clubby:
http://chicago.metromix.com/bars-and-clubs/seafood/tavern-on-rush-rush-and-division/137048/content
http://www.huntclubchicago.com/
Super Club Level
Enclave http://www.enclavechicago.com/
Lounge with Club Atmosphere
The Martini Ranch http://www.martiniranch.com/
Chocolate Bars (yes...really)
http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/91822/best_chocolate_cafes_and_bars_in_chicago.html
Also one at the upscale Peninsula Hotel on Friday evenings
http://chicago.metromix.com/bars-and-clubs/restaurant/chocolate-bar-at-the-river-north/144839/content
Worship Listed because of notoriety
Holy Name Cathedral http://www.holynamecathedral.org/menu.htm
Bahaii Temple for North American Worship (need a car for this one) http://www.bahai.us/bahai-temple 1 of 7 temples in the world (also a beautiful drive down Sheridan Rd)
Willow Creek Church in South Barrington (need a car) http://www.willowcreek.com/
Lake Shore Drive
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qGQO7A0otOs
run, walk, or drive along this Lake Michigan geographical masterpiece
From the Drake you are steps away.
The list has been updated to reflect recent additions and a few more ;)
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Kate -
I think you're right. Planned activities are a good idea, but people can do their own thing also; so many options!!! ;D
Didn't mean to put a damper on the piano bar; if people want to go, they should go. There are plenty of other opportunities for us to spend time together; not everyone will want to do everything.
Although I'd love to go to the gospel brunch, the ANA is having brunch Sunday morning and I've already indicated that I will attend. Beyond that, I am open to any and all suggestions - although I'd dearly love to have tea. It's a Drake tradition and I've never been. If I don't go in August, chances are I never will since I don't typically frequent places like The Drake. I'm more suited to places I can wear my flip flops ;)
Jan
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We took our group pictures at the last symposium Sun after the brunch in the lobby as found that getting a bunch of people together in such an event is harder than you think it would be. Plus we were a smaller bunch. I am not against any doings but just know that sometimes it is harder than you think. Plus breakfast starts at 8 Sat am and bet it would be hard to get a group out before that. I am not a morning person, Can you tell? Plus not a stay up late one like I used to be. It will work out I know. The actual symposium is pretty time consuming too.
Kate is so wonderful with the Chicago info. She could be a Chicago guide very well. I almost don't even need to look at my Chicago book as it is all right here.
Cheryl R
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The main thing I wanted to do is TEA and sine our plane doesn't even ARRIVE until 2:55, I guess we won't get to do that... :'(
I don't care about the Howl at the Moon - Dave & I aren't big party-ers but thought we would go if everyone did - we want to make the most of our time without 3 little ones in tow..
K
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The main thing I wanted to do is TEA and sine our plane doesn't even ARRIVE until 2:55, I guess we won't get to do that... :'(
I don't care about the Howl at the Moon - Dave & I aren't big party-ers but thought we would go if everyone did - we want to make the most of our time without 3 little ones in tow..
K
Trying to confirm my arrival into ORD on Thursday afternoon as well. Hotel booking issues that are being fixed and as of now, my plane tix on hold (until the hotel issue is fixed) is for my arrival just before K. (tix on hold for 2:15pm arrival).
K, taxi to hotel? :)
I have nothing booked and will be slow going over my visit. I hate to commit to anything at this point as I have to "listen" to my body to see how it is going to hold up. If I arrive too late for the tea, that's ok....... as of now, my only plans are for what the ANA has planned for symposium attendees. Fly back out on Sunday ... on a 4pm departure out of ORD, if anyone wants to share taxi.
Phyl
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Phyl,
My flight on Sunday is about the same time so yes, I'll share a cab with you...
Marci
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Phyl,
My flight on Sunday is about the same time so yes, I'll share a cab with you...
Marci
good to know Marci! Noted :D
btw.... rumor has it that a Piratitude wench that runs the PBW mayyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy be coming to the Symposium..... I have it on VERY good authority (her's, of course!) that our fearless ruler of the PBW... mayyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyyy.... be attending. Waiting on her confirmation.......... yep... your fearless Captn and Mine.... yep... what's 'er name!?!? :D If its twoo, pls have bail money for both of us.... her spouse will only donate a small portion towards bail! :D
Phyl
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The main thing I wanted to do is TEA and sine our plane doesn't even ARRIVE until 2:55, I guess we won't get to do that... :'(
K
Yep, it would be really tough, even moving the reservation to 3:30. Depending on traffic, you may not even arrive downtown until 4:30 or 5:00. Friday is symposium day so that won't work...It is tough.
Others:
Please Personal Message me with what sparks your interest. I am aware that you are all paying for flights to Chicago in addition to the lodging and symposium costs. For example, I will make reservations at the Drake for High Tea, but don't want to be showing up there if no one has an interest. The same is true with the Architectural Boat tour (which I plug cause it is truly a wonderful way to see Chicago).
Kate
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We are planning to go to the Pirate Exhibit at the museum sometime...maybe Sunday afternoon...Dave loves pirates and the history behind them and since we are making the whole trip for me basically, I want to do something special that would interest him! ;D If anyone wants to join us they are more than welcome!
K
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We are planning to go to the Pirate Exhibit at the museum sometime...maybe Sunday afternoon...]
K
I'll add it to the list:-) (See page 21)
What time do you need to go back to the airport K?
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We are planning to go to the Pirate Exhibit at the museum sometime...maybe Sunday afternoon...Dave loves pirates and the history behind them and since we are making the whole trip for me basically, I want to do something special that would interest him! ;D If anyone wants to join us they are more than welcome!
K
Me, me I love pirates, too! But I also love Oprah and would love to visit Harpo Studios.
Capt Deb(http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee60/Captdeb_photos/pirate-3.gif)
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We are planning to go to the Pirate Exhibit at the museum sometime...maybe Sunday afternoon...Dave loves pirates and the history behind them and since we are making the whole trip for me basically, I want to do something special that would interest him! ;D If anyone wants to join us they are more than welcome!
K
Me, me I love pirates, too! But I also love Oprah and would love to visit Harpo Studios.
Capt Deb(http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee60/Captdeb_photos/pirate-3.gif)
ow. Based on my plane tix, doubtful I'll get to go to the Pirate Museum... but... will see if my hotel room has DVD player... I'm thinking of bringing my "Pirates of the Carribbean" DVD's with me so us pirates can watch how things were back in the good ole' daze! :D
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um... a Pirates Museum on Lake Michigan? (or whatever great lake it is....).... um, is something wrong with that image? :o ??? ;D
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...not a Pirate MUSEUM - just an exhibit!!
K
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The Lake in question would be Michigan.
As Kay correctly said, the museum (the Field Museum in this case) isn't actually a pirate museum - they just happen to have a pirate exhibit. The Field isn't actually on the lake either - but the Aquarium/Oceanarium is - and the view inside looking out at the lake is beautiful. Well worth the trip.
The Art Museum is also well worth the trip - but you can spend all day there and not see everything.
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Okay, I've been madly trying to get caught up here. First of all - Kate, you totally rock for gathering all of this informatoin! Willie and I are staying a few extra days, so am going to use your informatoin to help us plot out our time. Thank you!
Willie and I are staying at the Knickerbocker, which I think is on the same block as the Drake (he got us a great rate there which helps the budget). Our flight arrives at ORD at 2 pm on Friday, so we should be at the hotel by 4:30, I'm guessing. We'll drop our bags at the Knick and head right over to the Drake.
I have to pass on anything loud - I've still got major noise sensitivity and just can't take anything loud. Seems like my hearing ear is trying to make up for my deaf ear by processing all noise at full volume. Can anyone recommend a good ear plug for blocking some of the noise?
I'm up for anytning else, though!
Debbi
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K,
No time for tea! ... but ... but ... what about sitting in knitted hats, wearing pearls and having our pinkies out? I had my heart set on having bickies and bevies with you...
Core blimey! Ee gads darling- we can't go without teatime... I was evening looking at sporting some pirate socks with my knitted hat...
DHM
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DHM~
I never said I didn't want to do tea - that's the thing I WANT to do, but I wouldn't be there to participate in it at the time that Kate has it scheduled...
K
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K,
I'll pack a tea pot and we will have tea in the lobby then ;)
;D
Perhaps I should have Steve knit us a tea cozy to match my hat & pearls attire ... Hmmm I wonder if he knits pirate socks... I have not found a matching set yet :D
ta ta for now darling
DHM
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DHM,
shame on me for not realizing that you are going to be there! "Pearlies" will be looking forward to finally meeting you :D (as well as everyone else I haven't met yet in person).
This is really turning out to be a wonderful event! So many folks finally get to meet face to face! I'm so looking forward to it!
Phyl
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DHM~
I never said I didn't want to do tea - that's the thing I WANT to do, but I wouldn't be there to participate in it at the time that Kate has it scheduled...
K
This is all a rough draft.
We can change the time. Tea ends at 5. Based on when you are landing and sharing a cab (2:55), getting your luggage and getting downtown to the hotel, tea didn't work time wise.
When else would you like to do it looking at the symposium schedule? (trying to avoid scheduling it during the symposium)
Nothing is in stone.
Kate
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Kate~
Don't change anything for me - I might "skip out" on some things at the actual Symposium - a LOT of it doesn't really pertain to me since I had surgery SOOOOOOO long ago. I totally understand the schedule thing, but i am more of a "Fly By the Seat of My Pants" type girl! ;)
Also, Tim is planning on coming too but I am not sure when arrives and all...we talked about it at dinner the other night, but I have slept since then! ;D
K
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Me, me I love pirates, too! But I also love Oprah and would love to visit Harpo Studios.
Capt Deb(http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee60/Captdeb_photos/pirate-3.gif)
[/quote]
http://www.homeandabroad.com/c/3/Site/924_Harpo_Studio_visit.html
Here are the hours! Looks like it is drop in anytime between 9 and 5...
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Kaybo -
I'm with you on the whole "fly by the seat of your pants" thing. That's pretty much my style also ;D
Debbi -
I had forgotten abou the Knickerbocker. It's a nice hotel - I think you'll like it. Plus it gives us all another bar to have drinks at ;) :D
Jan
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How about we all show up adorned in our knitted hats, pearls, and pirate socks and bring Michael Gate Gill along with us – to Oprah’s studio. We can starlight with our special famous New York Times Best Seller author… and perhaps plug the upcoming movie. Maybe Tom Hanks could join us too. Steve can bring his knitting needles…
Now wouldn’t that be a sight! ::)
I’ll bring my teapot and bickies. Michael can fire up a special latte machine… show us how to grind beans...
How about you Pearly Whites- do you have any Marmite on hand. How about some Cross and Blackwell’s mince pies.
What do you think Kay?
We can still have tea (or coffee), be famous, have cake … and eat it too.
DHM ;)
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Still More updates!!! Looks like there has to be a Welcome to Chicago party on Thursday night too! Tell me what date you plan to arrive and what date you plan to leave. You can post or PM me. That way we will have the list of people visiting throughout the weekend.
Name Hotel Arrival Date Departure Date
Marci Drake Saturday Sunday
Phyl Drake Thursday Sunday
Kate Drake Thursday Sunday evening
Jan Drake Thursday Sunday evening
Clarice Drake Thursday Sunday
Lori’s plan (not booked yet)Thursday Sunday
Cheryl R Drake Thursday Tuesday or Wednesday
Meagan Drake Thursday Sunday
Kay Drake Thursday Monday
Steve Drake Thursday Sunday
Samantha Drake Thursday Sunday
Lilan commuting will meet up with us
Debbi Knickerbocker Friday Tuesday
Karen Drake Friday Sunday
Lois Thursday? Sunday
4cm (Daisy Maizy) ? ?
Captain Deb
Migoi (Tim) Drake Thursday Sunday evening
-
Kate -
is that Lois as in "Boppie"?
I hope so. Boppie if this is you, please bring some pictures of the grandkids. I'd love to see them.
Jan
-
I'm just going to show up with a pirate eye patch, an empty tea cup, an ear plug, my designer "Steve" hat and a camera and wait for people to tell me where I should be and when. :D I've never had a problem with people telling me where to go. ;)
Debbi, is the Knickerbocker within walking distance to the Drake? I may need to look into that too.
Lori
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The Knickerbocker is literally within steps of The Drake.
So walking - even for those with wonky-head - shouldn't be an issue ;D
Your suggested attire should draw lots of looks in The Drake lobby - or anywhere else for that matter, Lori ;)
-
I'll meet you in the lobby, too - but I'll be wearing my teapot on my head!! (Just kidding). Lori, if you end up staying at the Knick, let me know. We've got a date for a drink...
The only thing I have left to do is arrange for an animal-sitter for the critters, and pack.
-
oh...should I be arranging care for the KIDS and the ANIMALS??? ???
K :o
-
Kate -
is that Lois as in "Boppie"?
I hope so. Boppie if this is you, please bring some pictures of the grandkids. I'd love to see them.
Jan
I agree! I hope its Bobbie too! She is so sorely missed!
Ok, all... been doing some WTT calls and have some noting to me about hotels. Kate B or Jan or anyone... overflow or cheaper hotels in close proximity to the Drake... anyone? Suggestions? Anyone? Bueller?
thanks!
Phyl
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Phyl -
the good folks at the ANA actually got an excellent room rate at The Drake, but from what I've seen through discount hotel sites, the Millenium Knickerbocker is comparable - as are some others.
Basically anything on the Mag Mile (Michigan Avenue) will do. Hotels range from The Palmer House Hilton to the Doubletree to the Hilton Garden Inn, etc., all the way up to the Four Seasons and the Ritz-Carlton. You can pretty much find just about anything in your price range. The discount sites usually have a 4 or 5 star rating system - so if you follow it, you typically can't go wrong.
Jan
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Jan and Phyl,
I dont know who Boppy is. But sure would like to meet everybody.
Lois
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Ah, apparently we have two (or maybe more ?) users named Lois.
Boppie (Lois) is from Texas, I believe, and she has twin grandsons.
Regardless, I'm glad you are attending the symposium, Lois. And I look forward to meeting you there ;D
Jan
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Still More updates!!! Looks like there has to be a Welcome to Chicago party on Thursday night too! Tell me what date you plan to arrive and what date you plan to leave. You can post or PM me. That way we will have the list of people visiting throughout the weekend.
Name Hotel Arrival Date Departure Date
Marci Drake Saturday Sunday
Phyl Drake Thursday Sunday
Kate Drake Thursday Sunday evening
Jan Drake Thursday Sunday evening
Clarice Drake Thursday Sunday
Lori’s plan (not booked yet)Thursday Sunday
Cheryl R Drake Thursday Tuesday or Wednesday
Meagan Drake Thursday Sunday
Kay Drake Thursday Monday
Steve Drake Thursday Sunday
Samantha Drake Thursday Sunday
Lilan commuting will meet up with us
Debbi Knickerbocker Friday Tuesday
Karen Drake Friday Sunday
Lois Drake Thursday Sunday
4cm (Daisy Maizy) ? ?
Captain Deb
Migoi (Tim) Drake Thursday Sunday evening
Elderbirds Wyndham Chicago Thursday Sunday
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Kate B or Jan or anyone... overflow or cheaper hotels in close proximity to the Drake... anyone? Suggestions? Anyone? Bueller?
thanks!
Phyl
[/quote]
Hi Phyl,
I would check out the discount sites and look at the areas called Magnificent Mile or River North. Do not choose Loop, Museum Campus or O'Hare. They are further away (especially O'Hare).
If you find something cheaper, remember to factor in cab fare at about 7-8 per way.
The Drake was $199.00. You can make a tentative reservation there as there is a three day cancellation period with no fees.
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Migoi (Tim) Drake Thursday Sunday evening
Hey Tim,
Should we plan a boys' night out? ;D
Steve
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Hi Phyl!
K has quite a list going there!
How many people usually attend?
Just curious.... :-\
Sue
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Jan, you rawk! :) Thank you! I believe this woman is lurking this thread (I've pointed her to it and as of now, she has not created a profile... *waves hello to WTT mystery woman! :) * What you shared is major help and truly appreciated. I figured anything downtown Chicago is going to be expensive anyway. She can compare, based on her budget, to see what she can find.
Thanks again!
Phyl
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Yea, Hope's attending. Glad to see that, Hope. Looking forward to meeting you ;D
Steve -
sounds like you and Tim might want to invite the girls to the boys' night out. It might get pretty lonely ;) But if you're buying the drinks, it will definitely be cheaper ;D
Kate -
any news on MaryBKAriz? I thought she mentioned months ago that she and her husband would be traveling to the symposium in their RV, but haven't seen any posts from her lately. I hope the symposium's still part of her summer plans.
Jan
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Hi Phyl,
I would check out the discount sites and look at the areas called Magnificent Mile or River North. Do not choose Loop, Museum Campus or O'Hare. They are further away (especially O'Hare).
If you find something cheaper, remember to factor in cab fare at about 7-8 per way.
The Drake was $199.00. You can make a tentative reservation there as there is a three day cancellation period with no fees.
Missed this.. thanks Kate! :) Truly appreciate it and will share this with her.
:)
P.S. HI SUE! :) See you there!
Tim/Steve... I'm in! I know it's a *coff* boys drink night but heck...... my voice is low/deep so I can pass! :D
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There is usually around 200 at the last 3 symposiums that I have been to. A few repeaters who do not post here. I have seen some Calif people more than once,also one Texas couple. A Michigan couple who are NF2 group leaders as their son has NF2. So the large group sessions have to be in a large type room and also where we eat. But the forum people find each other real fast! Cheryl R
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I soooo wanted to come, but I cannot make any commitments with my FIL being terminal. He was given 3 months, and him being the feisty fellow that he is will last longer!! Which is good thing if he is comfortable. My son Anthony had to cancel his trip to Italy. He was going to be gone from June 24 to July 24. Just cannot risk it.
I will have to read all about it on the forum. Please post lots of pictures. Looks like there is going to be a really big party in Chicago and I'm missing it :'(
I'll just cry myself to sleep tonight and I'll just have to get over it!!! ;D
Anne Marie
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Oh, Anne Marie, so wish you could be there too! Sorry things are so crummy for you right now-i would give you a big ole hug if I could!!
K
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Oh, Anne Marie, so wish you could be there too! Sorry things are so crummy for you right now-i would give you a big ole hug if I could!!
K
I'm feeling a love fest huggle on this one as well... but.. maybe we can stand at the lake's shore, look across and know we are sending hugglez and vibes to Ann Marie across the way? :'(
Phyl
-
Anne Marie, we'll definitely miss you :'( Maybe we can all plan on 2011 ;D
Been giving some thought to the boys' night out. Wasn't Pooter supposed to be attending the symposium - possibly with Jenni?
Pooter are you in ??
And Sue - are you coming? or were you just asking how many usually attend? Hope you're going ;D
Jan
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Anne Marie,
I am sorry you will not be able to attend the Convention, but certainly understand your position...
My dad had a minor stroke last week and i have been waiting to see how things go for him and my mom.
(He is doing better and is currently in Rehab.)
So - originally i was thinking about talking my sister (aka BigSister) into coming with me to Chicago - but things are abit unsteady right now for our family, and my sister lives closer to my parents so she is helping out alot more than i am able to at the moment.
Cheryl - thanks for the information about how many usually attend the event. It sounds like there will be a lot of fantastic folks there! ;D
Jan - the answer to your question then is, i don't know if i can attend.... It sure would be nice to meet everyone, but i will have to do a wait & see, which, for someone who is in W & W mode anyway, is just the new norm for me. (Thanks for asking)! If i get the chance, i will come - always do more things these days 'flying by the seat of my pants,' so that will be ok!
I will continue to read the updates on this thread, and maybe will be the surprise, last minute attendee!
Take lots of pics, as Anne Marie suggests - if we are not there physically, we will be there in spirit!
Sincerely,
Sue
-
Sue -
I'm sorry to hear about you dad. I hope everything turns out okay for him.
You can join Kaybo and me in the "flying by the seat of your pants" category any time, and while I definitely hope you get to Chicago, like I told Anne Marie, there's always 2011.
Best,
Jan
-
\Jan - the answer to your question then is, i don't know if i can attend.... It sure would be nice to meet everyone, but i will have to do a wait & see, which, for someone who is in W & W mode anyway, is just the new norm for me. (Thanks for asking)! If i get the chance, i will come - always do more things these days 'flying by the seat of my pants,' so that will be ok!
Take lots of pics, as Anne Marie suggests - if we are not there physically, we will be there in spirit!
Sincerely,
Sue
Hi Sue,
Sorry to hear the news about your dad. W and W it is. If there is even a remote chance of coming, you might reserve a room knowing that there is a three day cancellation rate as the $199.00 seems to be a good price for the Drake.
Anne Marie and Sue: I am sure there will be some picture takers in the group :)
Kate
-
Just got back from a weekend meeting at the Four Seasons downtown and it's a hotel to die for - so if money is no object and you haven't booked a hotel for the symposium yet, check it out. I think it's more spectacular than The Drake - and the fresh cut flowers in the lobby, bar, and meeting rooms were absolutely gorgeous.
On another note, some of my colleagues from work, who attended this particular meeting last year were telling me that they went to Howl at the Moon (suggested by Kate B) and that the dueling pianos are fantastic. And the best part - they are NOT too loud - at least in their opinions. Granted, none of them are SSD, but we may want to take another look at Howl at the Moon. I'm in - just tell me when ;D Didn't we talk about Marci's birthday? or was that Debbi?
Jan
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Hi Kate B. and Jan!
Thank you for the well wishes for my dad - much appreciated! He is progressing which is a GOOD sign!
Jan - thank you for some more great hotel tips. Dueling pianos...i want to see that!
Sue
-
Hello Everyone,
It's been too long since I logged in let alone posted--let me explain. Before I forget (which happens easily), take me off the list of those coming to the Symposium as what is going on with me has been the deciding factor in not going :(
I mentioned along time ago I was having issues related to my "good ear" of fullness, mild hearing loss, oscillopsia, nystagmus, sound-induced vertigo and of course the all annoying tinnitus fulltime. I had an acute bout of vertigo with ear pain and what followed was months of annoying dizziness with night sweating everytime I turned over in bed. All tests show nothing and my doctor cannot come up with why I'm having these problems. Many diagnosis' have been mentioned, another tumor which is too small to show up yet on MRI, hydrops, or dehischence (slices on past CT weren't thin enough to see a dehischence). The diagnosis doesn't really matter anyway as the treatment for any one of these would be worse than how I feel now.
I cannot tolerate low-tone sounds. My social life has come to a screeching hault. I wear my muscician's earplug that I've plugged up permanently with silicone plug anytime I'm outside in public, windy days, noisy gatherings, etc. I am also unable to talk for more than 20 minutes without causing symptoms of vertigo, vibration to the right side of my skull followed by a screaming headache and losing one day to recoup. Teaching yoga is a no more for me. Family gatherings have me listening more than participating. So paying for the Symposium which includes the lovely dinner gathering would cause me, literally, too much pain.
I do well staying at home mostly tending my garden, jogging everyday, yoga also, and am taking sign language classes to help with communicating just incase. I am happy, relaxed and look forward to everyday. So no sour pusses here.
Please remove my name and know how much I will miss seeing old and new friends.
Karen
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Karen~
I'm so sorry about this but seems that you are at some level of peace with your new life-style. IMO, that is the MOST important thing. I was thinking about you the other day as I have started doing Yoga and it made me think of you...We will definitely miss you in Chicago! Please let us know if there is anything that we can do to help...maybe you can talk to Steve about taking up knitting (if you don't already do that)!
K
-
Arushi, I am so sorry to hear of how things are going for you! That's terrible! Plus to not know the cause has to be very frustrating. Sounds like you are coping the best you can be but having ones life all changed is not easy. I have some idea for when I was having the near deaf time, I found out what it is like to not get to do what you want with ease.
I am sorry we won't get to see you and hope you can have some relief somehow someday. I knew we had not heard from you and I was hoping things were ok with you and wish they could be.
Big hug and will be thinking of you, Cheryl R
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Karen, I am SO sorry to hear you won't be joining us :'(.... I was truly looking forward to meeting you after all this time, but I truly understand. Sending white light to you to help the cause.... the wellness wishes continue, as you know. I think of you and hope things will calm down soon.
xox
Phyl
-
My husband and I sat down to synchronize our calendars last night. It looks like we will drive to Chicago on the 13th and I will participate in activities on Friday the 14th, so I'm game for anything on those two days. We are going to do family things on Saturday, though, and perhaps drive back to Springfield to have a look-see at all the new Civil War museums there.
Don't know yet where we will be staying, but I do know for a fact that $199 a night is not in the family budget.
Sara
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Sara~
So great that you can come - look forward to meeting you!'
K
-
Don't know yet where we will be staying, but I do know for a fact that $199 a night is not in the family budget.
Well, I'd offer you my couch, but you'd have to commute - and sleep with two cats ;)
Seriously, though, there are lots of very nice hotels downtown that won't charge you $199 a night - check out one of those travel sites like Travelosity.
If I get time after work today, I'll try to post some suggestions. I'm sure Kate B can suggest a few also.
Jan
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Sara,
Glad you can make it.
I just went to http://www.hotels.com
I found some lower priced hotels for as low as 89.50
Make sure you put in Chicago (not chicago area) and you want the gold coast or the magnificent mile.
Kate
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Please do post lots of pics. It does sound like so much fun. If I was going to be in town (in the country, actually), I certainly would have signed to come, since I live about 90 miles away. Unfortunately, yet fortunately, I'll be on vacation, as that's the only time a number of schedules meshed.
Have a drink for me (2 if you're not driving!)
I can probably pencil in 2011 though... ;D
Tamara
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Tamara,
Wish you could be in Chicago at that time...but that being said a VACATION is awfully nice too!
It will need to be a reciprocal picture posting...the conference and a vacation pic.
Kate
-
For anybody staying an extra day or two in Chicago, go into this site: www.chicagogreeter.com. A volunteer "greeter" will take you on a 2-4 (sometimes longer) tour of whatever area of the city you choose, and bus passes are provided! Everyone who does it loves it. It's modeled after "Big Apple Greeters" in New York.
Sharon
;D
-
WOW! Thanks for that info and link, Sharon!
K ;D
-
For anybody staying an extra day or two in Chicago, go into this site: www.chicagogreeter.com. A volunteer "greeter" will take you on a 2-4 (sometimes longer) tour of whatever area of the city you choose, and bus passes are provided! Everyone who does it loves it. It's modeled after "Big Apple Greeters" in New York.
Sharon
;D
Thanks Sharon! I just got back from the Big Apple and had no idea they had greeters also.
Kate
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Cheri -
sorry you won't be attending. We'll miss you :(
Jan
-
Hi folks!
I got cleared by the spine doc and I'm good to go. The ruptured disc that showed up on my MRI is apparantely an old injury (windsurfing, no doubt)and was calcified and asymptomatic for the most part. I made my airline reservations and signed up for the symposium this afternoon!! Yay! Navy Pier here we come!! Hope they have a pirate ship or two for me to play on!! Or some sailors to play with. I'm bringing my Jolly Roger to Chicago and hanging him in my hotel window.
See ya there!!
Capt Deb(http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee60/Captdeb_photos/pirate-3.gif)
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Hi folks!
I got cleared by the spine doc and I'm good to go. The ruptured disc that showed up on my MRI is apparantely an old injury (windsurfing, no doubt)and was calcified and asymptomatic for the most part. I made my airline reservations and signed up for the symposium this afternoon!! Yay! Navy Pier here we come!! Hope they have a pirate ship or two for me to play on!! Or some sailors to play with. I'm bringing my Jolly Roger to Chicago and hanging him in my hotel window.
See ya there!!
Capt Deb(http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee60/Captdeb_photos/pirate-3.gif)
Lordy, have merci, who's got the bail money? :D Does this mean our room now becomes PiratePartyCentral? :)
xoxoxoxoxox
me :)
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Hi folks!
See ya there!!
Capt Deb(http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee60/Captdeb_photos/pirate-3.gif)
Awesome!!
-
I'll wire you the bail money if needed ;)
Anne Marie
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Wonder if the Field Musum will still have their Pirate exhibit?
-
Pirates are there till Oct 25th. I just checked the museum website. I had a post not too long ago that my Michigan daughter and friend were down and saw it. Said is more adult orientated than small child. There is a very good Harry Potter exhibit at the Science Museum. (not right name exactly) I still haven't read my Chicago tourism guide. Time for that after next week. Cheryl R
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Yea! So excited to meet you Capt'n!!
K
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Yea! Glad to hear the good Captain will be onboard ;D
-
Gosh, I missing a huge bash :'(
-
Gosh, I missing a huge bash :'(
You are SOOOO going to be with us in spirit and piratitude. You can count on it! :-*
Phyl
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Wonder if the Field Musum will still have their Pirate exhibit?
Yes it is up until the fall.
Capt Deb(http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee60/Captdeb_photos/pirate_cat_bird_grab_lg_clr.gif)
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Kate if it is not too much trouble, an updated list would be nice.
Sara
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Pooter. Where are you Pooter??
Are you and Jenni still planning on attending?
Jan
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Hi All,
I will be attending the convention also. Although I only live 1 hour away, I'm going to take a mini-vacation and spend the weekend in Chicago, something I have never done before. I look forward to meeting everyone that I have corresponded with for the past 4 years! See ya soon! Ann
-
That's great news, Ann! ;D
I think you'll really enjoy Chicago - and meeting us, of course!
See you there!
Jan
-
I just submitted a one-day registration for Friday.
As a reminder, tomorrow (July 1) is the deadline for advance registration.
Sara
-
I'm still undecided over what to register for!
Is a critical mass of the forum group attending the reception and banquet on Saturday?
-
Well, well, this is an interesting wrinkle for Chicago: It would certainly separate the men from the boys from the AN patients!
http://www.chicagobreakingnews.com/2009/07/skydeck-heights-sears-tower-chicago-tourist.html
-
Yikes!!! Not me!
Clarice
-
I have a friend who had surgery some years ago for his Chiari Malformation--he was visiting me from England and went up Sears Tower and was dizzy for the rest of his visit! Seriously, anyone with balance problems should avoid this. But then you know that already.
Sharon
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I have a friend who had surgery some years ago for his Chiari Malformation--he was visiting me from England and went up Sears Tower and was dizzy for the rest of his visit! Seriously, anyone with balance problems should avoid this. But then you know that already.
Sharon
saw it on the news tonight... add me to the list of Chiari/AN folks that will avoid it! Um... NO!
Ann (Desilu)! OMG! It's going to be FAB to FINALLY meet you after all this time! I have BIG hugs for you... you know it!
Spoke to matti (Cheryl) and she, unfortunately, won't be able to attend but when I told her that me and Capt Deb were coming in for it... the first thing out of her mouth was "uh-oh! Bail money!"... she knows me/us too well. :)
Phyl
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Is a critical mass of the forum group attending the reception and banquet on Saturday?
I signed up for it. I figure we can ditch it and hit some tasty Chicago restaurant if it looks too boring. I will take a pass on the glass floor booth at the 103 floor of the Sears tower, thanks very much all the same.
Steve
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Thanks, Steve, for answering right on time! :D I just was signing up for it figuring the early rates will be over in 90 minutes, so I did choose those figuring the reception is the part of most interest to me, since I just want to meet & greet mostly!
Over the last year I have seen Drs. Hain, Fishman, Ciric, Wiet and Brackmann (blush) (as well as a few others *not* participating in the symposium). I was a rather fickle patient. ::) It took a village to get me to the finish line. ;)
-
Is a critical mass of the forum group attending the reception and banquet on Saturday?
I signed up for it. I figure we can ditch it and hit some tasty Chicago restaurant if it looks too boring. I will take a pass on the glass floor booth at the 103 floor of the Sears tower, thanks very much all the same.
Steve
Will also be attending the reception and banquet. Sounds like fun and looking forward to dressing up ... as its been a while since I've shown my legs in something other than shorts. :D
Phyl
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Excellent, thanks!
-
Can't remember if Kate included this info in her attendee list many pages back, but I will be at the banquet and reception, as well.
Clarice
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Oh, good. I tried to read back through the posts and see who was doing what in terms of the symp itself, but didn't find that info! At 27 pages, I might well have missed it! :D
BTW I have friends with normal, whole vestibular systems who were saying at dinner last night that they almost keeled over looking at the photos of the Sears Tower "Ledge." :)
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Hi Phyl,
Yes, we go way back. Back to when you were researching your treatment options. I have not always posted but have always been reading & trying to stay in touch with the forum. It will be nice to meet you and all the other awesome AN people. See you soon. Ann
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Hi Phyl,
Yes, we go way back. Back to when you were researching your treatment options. I have not always posted but have always been reading & trying to stay in touch with the forum. It will be nice to meet you and all the other awesome AN people. See you soon. Ann
kinda in a way seems like yesterday, don't it? :) I know you peek in from time to time, but I need to extend a thank you huggle to you as well for ALL you have shared with me during my journey..... truly! You've been there for me and I honestly thank you! :) Phyl
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Hi Phyl,
I want to Thank you for your kind words. We are all here to help one another, and I'm just glad I was able to help in some small way. This has been a difficult journey for all of us, but knowing that there are people out there that we can share are bad times and good times with makes it a little better for all of us. Have a great 4th. Ann
-
Now that the Symposium is almost here, can we update our list of who's attending, when they will arrive and depart, and what hotel they are staying at?
I think some have had a change of plans since we first started this thread.
Kate was great at creating the first list, maybe she can create the updated one.
Kate, where are you, Kate?
-
arrive afternoon of the 12th, staying at Drake, fly out afternoon of the 16th. :D
-
Debbi and Willie:
Arriving Friday afternoon - hopefully to hotel by 4 pm
Staying at the Knickerbocker
Leaving Weds morning
Planning to eat and drink our way thru Chicago - but no Sears Tower for moi! Planning to attend Sat night gala - but will be right behind Steve on our way to a Chicago eatery if it's too dull (or too loud!)
I can't WAIT to meet everyone!!!
-
Happy to say I'll be arriving some time on the afternoon of the 14th.
Although I had to extend my business trip, my plane from San Diego gets into O'Hare at 1 a.m. that day. I'm sure I'll need some sleep before I even attempt to interact with all you party people, but once that happens, I'll be heading downtown.
Staying @ The Drake - plan to attend all the banquets, brunches, get togethers, etc., that are part of the symposium schedule. Also plan to participate in anything else that others are doing that they care to invite me to.
Leaving for home some time on Sunday - late afternoon/early evening.
Will bring my Steve original with me ;D
Jan
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Ok, I'm out for the symposium - but oddly enough, I will be in Chicago that weekend! My son is graduating from Navy boot camp on the 14th, so we'll be spending time with him that weekend, but since none of us have been to Chicago, our plan is to head downtown on Friday or Saturday - so I may very well pop in at the Drake and see what's going on!
We are flying in on Thursday (not sure of the times yet), but if it's early enough, we may be able to head down there Thursday night too. I have Jan and Kay's phone numbers, so I'll give someone a call and I'll be on the lookout for a bunch of wobbly people wearing knit hats and saying "huh?" a lot. :D
Lori
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In the 14th, out the 16th.
For the brave, here is a pic I found of the glass floor in the sky:
(http://i335.photobucket.com/albums/m447/sgerrard_01/r516592913.jpg)
Not me. :o
Steve
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OK...we are coming in on Thursday afternoon (Phyl, isn't that the 13th - not the 12th??) and leaving on that Monday...
Lori - SO glad we might get a glimpse of you!!
K ;D
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OK...we are coming in on Thursday afternoon (Phyl, isn't that the 13th - not the 12th??) and leaving on that Monday...
Lori - SO glad we might get a glimpse of you!!
K ;D
You are correct! The 13th! Taxi, m'dear? :) Captn Deb's plane is also arriving a couple of hours different from our's. She'll be staying at the Drake (with moi)... I believe she is also flying out on Sunday, the 16th.
Steve, NO way I'll do the Sears Tower! I'm out on that one!
Jan, will you be borrowing Lori's halo in her absence :( so I can try to knock it off you? :D
Revised Phyl travel schedule due to Kaybo's keen eye of my typo:
Arrive THURSDAY, 8/13, Drake, fly back Sunday 8/16
Phyl
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Jan, so glad you are going to be able to make it - at least most of it! And, Lori - glad we might still get a glimpse of you! Kay and I exchanged phone numbers already, so we have the rudiments of a telephone tree set up ... ;D
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WHEW! I'm glad to get that all straightened out, Phyl...I didn't know if it was OK to question a moderator!! ;D
K
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Steve,
Just looking at the picture of the glass floor makes me dizzy. Not for the brave at heart!!!
Everybody enjoy, enjoy, enjoy. So wish I was going. My FIL is hanging tough, but each day has new challenges. Have a drink for me, something really cold and sour.
Anne Marie
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I am coming for the day on Sat.
Last minute decision.
I live about 45 min from the city .
Looking forward to meeting many of you.
Mary
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Just met up with some of the gang in NY/NJ (see post in this section for pictures) and it looks like I am the only one from our group going - but I have been ordered to take lots of pictures!
Hey, I'm thinking we need to set up a communal photo album on Flickr or something so that we can all post pictures there after the symposium - what do you all think?
Debbi
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In the 14th, out the 16th.
Correction: in on Thursday the 13th. Flight arrives 5 pm. Anything up for Thursday night?
Steve
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Correction: in on Thursday the 13th. Flight arrives 5 pm. Anything up for Thursday night?
Moderator party in the lounge of the hotel since you are buying! :D
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I'm not a moderator (obviously) but if Steve's buying, can I come? Actually, I owe Steve a drink for my hat!
K ;D
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Well, heck, if Steve is buying, can someone order a glass of Oregon Pinot for me (I won't be there, but i promise that you'll enjoy the pinot!)
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If anyone's staying over on Monday, the Monday night special at the Weathermark (1535 S. Michigan, short ride on #3 bus) is a big, juicy hamburger + all the trimmings plus a pint of any beer for $6.00. We're going tonight. One beer at the Drake probably costs $10.00.
Sharon
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I am coming for the day on Sat.
Last minute decision.
I live about 45 min from the city .
Looking forward to meeting many of you.
Mary
I am glad you are coming Mary! It will be good to catch up.
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Name Hotel Arrival Date Departure Date
Marci Drake Saturday Sunday
Phyl Drake Thursday Sunday
Kate Drake Thursday Sunday evening
Jan Drake Friday Sunday evening
Clarice Drake Thursday Sunday
Lori’s plan Thursday Sunday
Cheryl R Drake Thursday Tuesday or Wednesday
Meagan Drake Thursday Sunday
Kay Drake Thursday Monday
Steve Drake Thursday Sunday
Samantha Drake Thursday Sunday
Andrea (Lilan) commuting will meet up with us
Debbi Knickerbocker Friday Tuesday
Karen Drake Friday Sunday
Lois Drake Thursday Sunday
4cm (Daisy Maizy) ? ?
Captain Deb Drake Thursday Sunday
Migoi (Tim) Drake Thursday Sunday evening
Elderbirds Wyndham Chicago Thursday Sunday
Ann (Desilu)
Mary (Life is Good) Saturday
Sharon (Sharonov)
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Kate -
good to see you ;D
Thanks for the updated list - but I'm already going to ruin it. My plans have changed and I won't be in town until the wee hours of Friday morning; so I'll be at The Drake Friday afternoon.
Also, Lori has had a change of plans - you'll find it if you read back a few posts.
Kaybo -
I owe Steve a drink for my hat also, but it will have to wait until Friday, Saturday, or Sunday.
Note to Steve - I said Friday, Saturday OR Sunday; not Friday, Saturday AND Sunday :D
I'm really looking forward to meeting everyone.
Jan
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More... Looks like there has to be a Welcome to Chicago party on Thursday night too! Does a reservation for Chicago Deep Dish Pizza resonate with all?
Steve,
This (deep dish pizza) might be a fun and informal way for all ...What kind of place were you thinking for Thursday? If you land at 5 you will probably get downtown around 6:30. Should we reserve around 7:30?
Also, how many for high tea on Thursday afternoon? Maybe we should we make it Friday afternoon instead? I will make the reservation once I know how many... It begins at one and ends at five. You want at least an hour to an hour and a half.
There was also talk about Saturday night Howl at the Moon? How many are intereted in that?
We can be impromptu too...but in Chicago, you are often best with a few reservations in place during the summer!!! We are a popular tourist spot.
Kate
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Pizza is fine with me. I am not coming to Chicago for the food, even though there is plenty of good food there. I care more about who I am eating with. :)
Do men have to wear a tie for high tea? I think I still have one somewhere up in the attic...
Steve
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won't be arriving in time for the High Tea (I believe....) but a maybe on the pizza (not allowed to eat pizza but maybe they offer something I can eat.....). I'll have to note as a "maybe' to see how I'm feeling post-CHI arrival/flight.
Phyl
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Would love to do High Tea on Friday, but it all depends on what time you plan to do it. I'm not sure when I'll get downtown, but if tea is late enough in the day, count me in.
Also, I'd love to Howl @ the Moon. Despite initialling thinking it would be too loud, several of my colleagues who've been there said that it isn't as loud as you'd think. They also said it's a great place.
Jan
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We can do Tea Friday but not Thursday and would definitely do Howl at the Moon if a group is going! We are pretty easy!
K ;D
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I have now found out that we are going to Michigan several days ahead to do a project on my daughters house. I know by Chicago time that he will be ready to go home. Too bad as he will have to figure out how to keep himself occipied while I am at the symposium. I don't care if get do any museums since we have been to them. Sears Tower and Woodfield Mall will not be missed though after the symposium. The symposium is all Fri afternoon for those who are doing tea instead. Cheryl R
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symposium does have a full schedule for Friday... and was told that we will not find out until registration what each person is confirmed to attend (ie: workshops you ask for when you enrolled for the symposium, etc).
symposium event schedule for Friday and later:
http://www.anausa.org/symposium_schedule.html
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Pizza is fine with me. I am not coming to Chicago for the food, even though there is plenty of good food there. I care more about who I am eating with. :)
Do men have to wear a tie for high tea? I think I still have one somewhere up in the attic...
Steve
Steve, why not knit yourself a new tie out of the remnants of all the hats you have made thus far? Now THAT would be a conversation piece.
Sara
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Most small sessions have room and I've never seen it checked if you signed up for a particular session. I've changed where I was going more than once. There might be some that are real full but usually are in a big enough room if you decide want to go to another one than first stated. Just so the ANA isn't reading this! Cheryl R
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I will be coming in with my family sometime Thursday and attending workshops related to facial paralysis on Friday. Not sure where we will be staying yet, but not the Drake. I'll post again when we've made our final plans.
Sara
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symposium does have a full schedule for Friday... and was told that we will not find out until registration what each person is confirmed to attend (ie: workshops you ask for when you enrolled for the symposium, etc).
symposium event schedule for Friday and later:
http://www.anausa.org/symposium_schedule.html
Phyl...Hmmm....Good point...the workshop really kicks off on Friday afternoon. By Saturday afternoon, people may be ready for a break.
I've reserved a table for Saturday at 3:30.
Steve, the dress code is not that strict...no flip flops, cut offs.... Chicago is pretty casual.
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Dress code questions - are jeans okay for the workshops? And, what is the dress code for Sat night? I may spit food across the table, but I want to make sure that I am dressed appropriately when I do it! ;) :D
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You will see all styles of clothing at the symposium so what ever you are comfortable in. The banquet is rather dressy and you will see all styles of dressy. I don't own anything formal at all so a dress I wore to a wedding is it. Putting on pantyhose is a big deal to me. Cheryl R
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I would say a summer dress or black pants will be fine.
Gosh, the dress code all over is lax these days. Recently, when at a Broadway performance, there were people there in jeans...anything goes.
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Thx for the dress code tips! I am hoping to avoid panty hose (and there will DEFINITELY be no heels on these feet) and Willie is hoping to avoid a tie - oh, and he says no heels for him either ;D.
I just got "How Starbucks Changed My Life" and am getting ready to read it this week - getting myself in the mood!
Can't wait to meet you all.
Debbi
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Reminder: today is the deadline for reservations at the Drake. http://www.hilton.com/en/hi/groups/personalized/CHIDHHH-ANA-20090811/index.jhtml
Phone: 800-564-7306
Our plans have changed slightly and only my two girls and I will be coming. But for two queens at the Drake it is $279 rather than $199 per night and there is an additional $49 per night for parking. Well, it did say $199 for room chosen at check-in but that would not guarantee two queens. I am still working on alternatives - hotels.com is featuring Chicago as a destination but nothing in the near vicinity to the Drake.
Sara
Quick question -- does anyone know the cancellation policy for the Drake?
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Sara,
I thought the cancellation policy was close to the day of check-in. If I get the chance I will call them later to confirm that. Yes, they are trying to "Upsell" the room. When searching, know that all of the Chicago hotels will charge for parking downtown so that will be a wash. Parking is a premium in the Windy City.
I will need to be cancelling myself. My 26 year old physically-fit son got a virus in January which appears to have also settled in his heart destroying a valve necessitating valve replacement surgery. He is already a stage 4 meanng that over60 % of his blood is leaking and not pumping through a properly opening and closing valve. It all makes the heart work harder. We are traveling to Ohio for the surgery because they do a less invasive procedure. It is hard to believe, but Chicago does not have surgeons who do not crack open the rib cage. So we are travelling to Ohio where the procedure replaces the valve without the aforementioned. His surgery date is August 13.
I did make reservations at the Drake for the group on Friday, August 14 at 3:30 for high tea. I am happy to email the confirmation to anyone who planned to attend. The pizza place on Thursday said on their website that they don't take reservations, but honestly once I got a count, I was going to try calling Gino's East. Due to the circumstances, I am havng to relinquish my role as self-appointed social director. I am counting on the other organizers in the group:-) Also, you may find the earlier list of places useful...around page 15 or such.
If someone needs my reservation at the Drake, please PM me.
Kate
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Oh Kate, you and your son are certainly in my prayers. Mayo at Rochester, MN also does the less invasive surgery if you feel that you need a second opinion.
Sara
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Kate, dear heavens on your news! -- prayers for you and your son.
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oh Kate, what horrible happenings - I will definitely keep your son (& YOU) in my prayers...we will miss you!
K
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Kate, where in Ohio are you going? There are centers in Cleveland, Cincinnati and Columbus. I know the Cleveland Clinic is renowned. I remember being vaguely surprised when I learned that Ohio was a leader in cardiac surgery, but then again, why not?
Sara
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Oh, Kate - so very sorry to hear about your son. I will keep you both in my prayers.
SaraLynn - have you tried the Knickerbocker? Willie got us a very good rate by calling the hotel directly - and it's right next to the Drake!
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Kate .....
I am so sorry about your son ..... particularly shocking when he is so young and physically fit!
My thoughts and prayers are with both you and your son.
Clarice
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Not yet, Debbi -- my mom is going to check and see if some of her Wyndham timeshare points can be used at the Wyndham Chicago hotel. That would be perfect, but I'm not holding my breath. Thanks for the suggestion for the Knickerbocker, I'll keep it in mind. I also know that it is usually possible to find great deals at the last minute, but it's completely against my nature to wait that long. I like having all my ducks lined up well in advance.
Sara
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Hi everyone,
Although I intended to attend (even bought the plane ticket) it looks like I won't be able to be there. Too many reasons to list. Suffice to say I will be celebrating my 50th at home with friends and family and will be thinking about all of you. Have a drink or two for me!
Love,
Marci
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Kate,
I do not know what to say, it has all been covered. As one mother to another you must be frantic. Please keep us informed. Sending you many hugs and kisses :-* :-* :-* :-* a few for your son too!
Anne Marie
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Thank you everyone.
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Kate,
Life sure keeps us spinning, doesn't it? I am so sorry to hear about your son. I hope surgery goes well.
On the less important topic of Chicago, if anyone is picking up Kate's planning, I don't want to do high tea on Friday because of the symposium.
Samantha
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Yep, it's official. Taylor and I will be driving up Friday morning and staying at the Knickerbocker. Hope the bail money fund is big as Taylor is 21 now. Look out! Looking forward to seeing everyone!!
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Taylor's mom, We'll look you up at tne Convention. I have met you at the St.Louis meetings and live in Illinois/ Karen
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Yep, it's official. Taylor and I will be driving up Friday morning and staying at the Knickerbocker. Hope the bail money fund is big as Taylor is 21 now. Look out! Looking forward to seeing everyone!!
It will be great to see you guys again! We had so much fun in Philly. Hope Taylor still has her silly pirate scarf!
Kate, I sure hope everything goes well with your son and we will all be sorry not to see you.
Hugs,
Capt Deb
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Kate, my wishes to you all during this time and hope things will be resolved and on the road to wellness. I was looking forward to FINALLY meeting you after all of these years and sorry that I won't.
As for Taylor and Mom and all.... well, I am SOOOO looking forward to it!
Captn Deb, I have raised no bail money for us. :( So, me thinks we be in trouble..... :D
Phyl
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Hi Kate,
My prayers for your son. He is young, he will fight it and get better.
Vivian
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Kate -
prayers to your son; hope things turn out well. I'm so sorry I am going to miss a chance to meet you once again :'( But since you are local, I'm hopeful we'll meet one day in the very near future.
Marci -
we are going to miss you too. Wish you were attending. Please plan on 2011.
On a different note, I was contacted by Cochlear last week and was asked to help them at their symposium exhibit answering questions and telling others about my experience with the Divino. I've been a Cochlear volunteer for a few months, but this is my first official assignment and I'm SO excited! ;D
Jan
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Jan~
How Divino!! I will be one of your 1st customers!! ;D
K
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On a different note, I was contacted by Cochlear last week and was asked to help them at their symposium exhibit answering questions and telling others about my experience with the Divino. I've been a Cochlear volunteer for a few months, but this is my first official assignment and I'm SO excited! ;D
Jan,
That's wonderful! I can't think of a better spokesperson for the BAHA system!
Catherine (JerseyGirl 2)
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Thanks for the vote of confidence, Catherine ;D
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On a different note, I was contacted by Cochlear last week and was asked to help them at their symposium exhibit answering questions and telling others about my experience with the Divino. I've been a Cochlear volunteer for a few months, but this is my first official assignment and I'm SO excited! ;D
Jan ~
Well done! Congratulations on this notable distinction. I'm certain you'll be a fine representative for the Cochlear BAHA at the ANA symposium in Chicago next month.
Jim
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So, Jan ... can I get your autograph?
Debbi :D
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Hi, all,
I wish I could be at the forum but, unfortunately, it is impossible. I am very interested in two topics: everything about AN genetics (sporadic or NF2) and non-BAHA hearing options. I pretty much ruled out BAHA for myself because of abutment it requires which can potentially lead to headaches. Is it possible to get notes of everything they talk about on these two subjects in the ANA forum, or does anybody know if ANA publishes any materials I can purchase?
Eve
PS Jan, congratulations!!! Even though BAHA is not for me, I understand that it is a wonderful option for many people and possibly better performer than the one I use!
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Eve, there will be audio casssettes or CDs or many of the sessions but not for a few weeks past the symposium. You can look at the symposium link and see what past ones are available. I don't remember too much detail from Slattery at the small session of NF2 about the genetics of it. Maybe some and am not sure if another session by someone else did go into AN genetics more. There is the session on hearing help and has been in the past. I think last times on that was Dr Ravi Samy who was in his fellowship at Iowa when had my very first surgery in 2001 and was part of it. I did not get to that session as more interested in another but did talk to him.
Cheryl R
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Thanks, Cheryl, I will look for the tapes.
Eve
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Eve -
sorry you can't join us; you'll be missed.
My neurotologist is on the agenda to talk about what's new in hearing restoration after surgery. If the ANA doesn't have a audio cassette or CD of this particular session, perhaps he'd be willing to give me a copy of his notes and I can PM them to you.
Thanks to you and Jim for your nice comments!
Debbi - the autograph will cost ya! ;)
Jan
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Thanks, Jan. I really wanted to go but my son has a birthday that weekend. Can't miss that, can I?
Eve
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Unfortunately, it looks like I waited too long for the Knickerbocker. They only have suites available now that are out of my budget.
If anyone is sill looking for a place to stay, I made reservations at the Red Roof Inn Downtown Chicago, about a half mile south of the Drake on Ontario at Michigan Avenue. Their AAA rate is $90 for Thursday night, $99 for Friday and Saturday nights plus $36 daily for parking. This is the only sub-$100 price I have found in downtown Chicago. (Red Roof had a MMRP or MMPR rate that was slightly less, but I could not figure out the qualifications for that rate so I opted for the AAA rate.)
My husband and son are going on another Boy Scout float trip that weekend so just the girls and I are coming. Elbee is having her second foot surgery just two days before we arrive. That was the only available date before school starts, and her physical therapist told us there would be no problem being ready for basketball season, so we decided to go ahead and do it. She's a trooper and I am sure she will do fine. She is really looking forward to the trip. As am I.
Sara
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So, Jan ... can I get your autograph?
Debbi :D
...and you didn't ask for mine? :'(
eve, so sorry you can't make it. Would have been great to finally meet you and hoping birthday surprises in store for your son.
*walks off crying*.......
Phyl
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Oh, Phyl - I just assumed that you (and Steve, too) knew that I would be wanting your autographs as well! ;D Heck, maybe you can autograph my scar?!
Sara - glad you found a place to stay!
Eve - I'm interested in non-baha options, too, so I'll take notes for both of us. I'll see you at our fall NY/NJ lunch, right?
Migoi tweeted that he just finished the "Starbucks..." book and really liked it - I finished it a couple of weeks ago and also really thought it was great. Inspiring guy.
See you all in a few weeks Woot Woot!!
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Thanks everybody for your kind words. I have a feeling I will be missing a wonderful gathering and a lot of information.
Debbie - I will do my absolute best to make the Fall NY/NJ lunch. Can't wait to see you all! Thanks in advance for taking notes for both of us!
Eve
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Oh, Phyl - I just assumed that you (and Steve, too) knew that I would be wanting your autographs as well! ;D Heck, maybe you can autograph my scar?!
now I feel better :D
BTW....... in speaking to the fearless PirateWench (ie: Captn Deb)..... Pirate gear will be tow for us and homebase for the PBW will be proudly displayed so no one can miss it..... for all official and honorary PBW crew members (which means ALL forumites)........ please make your status known at the symposium :D
Cursed Cruise Director am I! :)
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Hey Debbi, can you add me to those non-BAHA notes????? I'm not ready to ask for another incision in my head just yet!!
Can't wait to hear about the symposium.
Kathy
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I'm not ready to ask for another incision in my head just yet!!
Kathy
I felt like that too post op, but keep in mind that BAHA implant surgery is NOTHING like AN surgery. Technically there isn't even an incision (a drill doesn't not an incision make) ;) and the skin flap doesn't count IMO.
Nice, quick, painless procedure. Fast healing, etc.
I say try the demo and go from there.
Jan
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I'll add one more thing to do in Chicago--for lovers of classical music. Every Monday and Wednesday the Cultural Center sponsors a 45 minute classical music program in the world's most gorgeous setting: Preston Bradley Hall (3rd floor, elevator available.) Under the world's largest Tiffany dome, surrounded by marble and huge windows overlooking Millenium Park, you can hear small ensembles performing classical music. It's really a wonderful experience and it's FREE!! The Cultural Center, which was built as our library in the 1890's, is on Michigan about a mile and a half straight south of the Drake. If anyone is staying an extra day or two and is interested, I can tell you what the performance will be.
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I started a diet back in December..... with my goal being the symposium to reach my destination weight. This has been a physician-monitored diet and for those of you that have already met me in person.... well, you know I've been rather "hefty" and exercise is very limited for me. Well... I weighed in at the doc today... and as of today... I'm down 26 lbs! :D I didn't hit my goal (off by 10 lbs) BUT I can share... I bought me a new dress for Saturday night's festivities at the symposium. A speshal shout out to my "roomie" for the symposium, our fearless leader, Captn Deb, for cheering me on through this diet...... :-* :-* :-*
Bags are almost packed... looking forward to seeing everyone in CHI!
Phyl
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WAY TO GO PHYL!!! I think that I found all of the weight that you lost!! ;D but I have had a great summer with my wonderful hubby and girlies!! I'll get them off to the camp with their cousins Saturday and then maybe I can start thinking about our trip...
K
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Before I can think about the trip I need to take my son to get his braces on and my middle girl in for her second foot surgery. Little guy and his dad are going on another float trip the same weekend the girls head for Chicago. At least they acquired all the gear they could possibly need for the Boundary Waters trip last month.
Add to that some before school meetings of my parish education board and the parochial school board and getting school supplies . . . I need to come to Chicago just to rest.
Are there definitive plans for Thursday night yet? I'm planning on attending seminars Friday afternoon and the roundtable with Jackie Diehls Friday evening. Saturday I'm playing tourist with my girls. I think they want to go to the Hard Rock Cafe Saturday night and I'm OK with that (never been). Heading home Sunday because my eldest has to work Monday morning. We might be able to fit a few more group activities in, depending on where they are and whether they are family-friendly.
I haven't had time to go to the gym much this summer, so all my muscle is turning to mush. Most of my clothes still fit, just not as well. I've been doing PT with Elbee to keep her more motivated and that is helping. Back to school for the kids means back to the gym for mom. I'm looking forward to it, I have a bunch of gym buddies and we are all going through summer withdrawal.
Can't wait to meet everyone. Are we PMing cell phone numbers?
Sara
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This thing is next week!
I think I better start getting ready to go, or something. PM'ing phone numbers sounds like a good idea. I hope we are meeting up for something on Thursday evening.
Is Phyl the boss?
Steve
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WAY TO GO PHYL!!! I think that I found all of the weight that you lost!! ;D
No, that would be me, Kaybo :(
Don't forget to pack your knit hats!
Jan
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There was talk of doing pizza Thurs night. We are leaving this weekend to go to Michigan first to our daughters and Dad is going to do a bathroom project for her. It had better be done in time for us to get to Chicago Thurs as planned. I will have internet computer access anyway while at her place. I had wondered about some phone nos of others too. My husband won't be going to alot of the symposium but will pay for him to come to the banquet so hewill be able to do some sightseeing. Cheryl R
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Thanks Cheryl for the update and good journey to you in MI first!
will start a dinner thread in AN Community for Thurs night dinner
Phyl
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Hey everyone!
I haven't been posting or lurking for a number of weeks now. How strange. I AM thinking about all of you in Chicago soon - hope you all have a terrific time. I won't be able to make it, but don't feel too sorry for me as I'll be on vacation in Europe. I look forward to seeing all the photos (and all the hats!) Hopefully it won't be too warm to model them.
Best wishes to all!
Tamara :)
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I'll be on vacation in Europe.
BAH! Unless you are going to champagne country in France (but stay away from Paris and anything else Parisian.....)... you should be in CHI instead! :)
Have a great trip! Send postcards!
Phyl
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I am getting EXCITED!
Mary
8)
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OMG - it's barely a week away!!
I wish I was going to be there Thursday - I'll miss you all. However, look for Willie and I on Friday afternoon.
I am hoping to grab a seat at the Jackie Diels roundtable Fri night, but not sure how that all works. I'm planning to attend as much of the facial and hearing sessions as possible - but the REAL event for me will be meeting all of you!
Kay and Mary, you've got my cell phone - I'll PM it to anyone else who wants it...
Debbi (weight stable)
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Deb, I am planning on attending that same round table discussion Friday evening. I would like to get her feedback on the physical therapist in St. Louis and what she thinks I need to start doing. I kind of figured it would be a situation where people come and go at each table, but as I recall hers was the only one of interest to me.
see you there.
Sara
P.S. When I first saw your "weight stable" comment, I thought it meant you had an eyelid weight that was being troublesome, but then I recalled the earlier diet conversation and felt pretty silly.
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Mary!!!!!!!!!!!!!! You and Weldon are coming!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! xoxoxoxox
I have many cell phone numbers.. and many of you have mine as well. Will have laptop with me as well (have to check in with my work emails...) and will also be doing real-time upload of pics and updates from the symposium to the gang here on the forums.
Phyl
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There is another thread started at
http://anausa.org/forum/index.php?topic=10195.45
for folks interested in a trip to the Field Museum pirate ship exhibit and/or dinner following at Gino's on Thursday evening.
We have a party of ten at this point, and are looking for at least five more to book a party room since Gino's does not take reservations, even for us.
Sara
insert subliminal message here: pink pink pink pink pink pink pink pink pink pink
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OK I am going to come down town for the Event on Saturday. Haven't decided yet if I'm going to take the train or drive. Question, is there any dress code for the Gala?
Because if I need to bring a change of cloths I will probably need to drive.
(I just hate to pay the parking cost down there.)
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Don't forget the Air & Water Show will be going on, so allow for that if driving to the Drake -- it's right in the middle of it!
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I think that the thing Saturday night is more SMANCY, isn't it??
K
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I think that the thing Saturday night is more SMANCY, isn't it??
K
I took a weed wacker to my legs just for Saturday night's event! :D
I hear it's "business smart"...... nice dress or such....
Phyl
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Hey Phyll--this is yer roomie!!! Thanks for talking to me today--you are inspirational. I'm packing the thermaphore heating pad, the TENS machine and the meds. I also give a great massage. We'll take care of each other.
Love ya,
Capt Deb
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The Sat night banquet is a rather dressy affair. You wil see all variations of dressy though from a the little black dress ( which I do not own) to just a nice dress. So do what works best for you. The parking does sound bad as some of us are not used to it at all! Cheryl R
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Looking forward to seeing everyone!! We are just going to "bite the bullet" and use the valet parking at the Drake so we can go in and out if needed with no additional charge.
I agree with Deb that maybe the best thing is to set a time to meet in the Lobby on Thursday night and go from there. Hopefully it will not be too hot or too far to walk to Gino's ..... parking closer might be impossible anyway.
Clarice
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Hey Phyll--this is yer roomie!!! Thanks for talking to me today--you are inspirational. I'm packing the thermaphore heating pad, the TENS machine and the meds. I also give a great massage. We'll take care of each other.
Love ya,
Capt Deb
Bring it on, m'dear.... we shall suffer in unison! :) But, in terrific company! :D Hang in there. We'll get through it....... I'll bring the British bubble bath!
Looking forward to meeting everyone. If you see 2 old bitties (ok, will only speak for meself... one old bittie... yes, Captn, that's ME!) struggling while walking.... just grab our elbows and help us along, ok? Our's will be the orthopaedic spinal center for the Drake! :)
Phyl
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..... I'll bring the British bubble bath!
Yardley's lavender?
DHM
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..... I'll bring the British bubble bath!
Yardley's lavender?
DHM
Radox "Sleep Easy" (Lavender) :D I've taught the Captn about Radox.... got a bottle already to pack.
Phyl
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Any plans for a meet-up on Friday eve? Or shall I just look for the wobbly ones? LOL ;D
Debbi
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Debbi--there is a social function on the symposium schedule for Fri night--round table discussions after dinner--sounds medically but it was really more social.
Also a word of warning--I darn near froze my patoot off last symposium they had the air conditioning turned up so high. It was really cold on that Sat night and of course I was sleeveless--so cold I ended up with a migraine by the time dinner was over. This time I'm bringing several sweaters and a wrap for the hoe-down. I guess I still have a tropical body from all those years in the Caribben. Steve's hat may come in handy!!
Capt Deb(http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee60/Captdeb_photos/pirate-3.gif)
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Hi,
This may have been addressed and I missed it. My HUSBAND thought to ask this. Thank goodness, someone here plans ahead.....How Gala is the Gala Saturday night?? Do the men need coats and women more dressy? I just saw it on the schedule with no dress code was stated. I don't want us to be totally inappropriate. Our Arizona flip flops are probably not it.
I hope for cool rooms everywhere at the symposium. I forgot how it feels to be too cold! LOL! I want to wear a sweater to remember what it feels like to even need sleeves. A blizzard might be nice but it looks by the online 7 day forecast like it will be sweltering (for Chicago). SIGH!
Also, any bringing eye patches as our Phyl requested - I think if they are worn they should be over the offending EAR and not the eye. ;) We need all the vision we can get. PLUS we will know which side to talk to. Talk to the ear!
I am getting soooooo excited. See some of you Thursday, I hope, if not see you Friday.
Mary
8)
Mary
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I am assuming not jacket and tie, but a shirt with a collar, and not jeans. :)
Steve
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I thought Phyl said "Business Formal" and Cheryl who has been to many of these said that Saturday night is pretty dressy...
K
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Steve,
;) You could always quickly knit a tie - of you are in a pinch. ;D
Actually I was under the impression ties were in order... :-\
DHM :)
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Actually I was under the impression ties were in order... :-\
By all means wear one then. :)
Steve
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I thought Phyl said "Business Formal" and Cheryl who has been to many of these said that Saturday night is pretty dressy...
K
Business casual by day (avoid shorts/sneakers) and dressy for Sat night....... :)
Phyl
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Thank you for info all.
Business casual by day? Pirate gear? Hmmmmmmm what is biz casual for pirates?
Mary
8)
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By all means wear one then. :)
Steve
A tie might look rather weird with my dress- don't you think? :D
Personally when I attempt to knit a square it always looks like a triangle when I am done... and my hat is off to those who can knit.
Here is a pattern for you just in case you are in a pickle- at the Drake
http://www.knitpicks.com/Men's+Bias+Knit+Tie+Pattern_PD50604220.html
Tease ;)
DHM
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If I am going to be roped into wearing a tie, I think I will just bring one. I just checked my jacket, and it still has a wedding invitation in the pocket from 2003, which must be the last time I wore it. It still fits, though, as long as I don't try to button it up. :)
Steve
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If I am going to be roped into wearing a tie, I think I will just bring one. I just checked my jacket, and it still has a wedding invitation in the pocket from 2003, which must be the last time I wore it. It still fits, though, as long as I don't try to button it up. :)
Steve
check with Dr. Medbery and see if he'll loan out the pink paisley tie I gave him last year....... :)
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Steve, all my husbands will be wearing is a dressy shirt and khakis for Sat. Men get by looking dressed up! A suit is enough for weddings or funerals for alot of men and we live in a ruralish so men get by with less tie wear. Cheryl R
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At the Dillard's here they have the coolest zip up pre-knotted neckties. The part that goes around the neck is a zipper so that you just zip it up to where the knot is comfortable. Unlike a clip-on they can be worn loosened. I'm watching for a sale to get one for my son.
Sara
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I'm saving the wenchwear for Thurs and Friday night and wearing one of two dresses that I own.
(http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee60/Captdeb_photos/21754.jpg)
Capt Deb
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Steve, all my husbands
Girl, how many husbands do you have and you are bringing them ALL to Chicago?? :o
K ;D
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Steve, all my husbands will be wearing is a dressy shirt and khakis for Sat.
This had me giggling too :D
DHM
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I'm saving the wenchwear for Thurs and Friday night and wearing one of two dresses that I own.
Capt Deb
I'm missing all the fun !!! take pictures for me!
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Steve, all my husbands will be wearing is a dressy shirt and khakis for Sat.
This had me giggling too :D
DHM
I didn't even catch the multiple husbands, just found it noteworthy that Cheryl thought we'd be interested that nothing comes between him and his khakis . . .
Sara
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Multiple husbands?? How do get that!!!! I have trouble cleaning up after just one.
Ha! Ha!
Ok since I am attending this shindig against my doc's advice and will be recieving a spanking when I see him next, I have taken Daisy-Maisy and Phyll's advice and contacted the airline about wheelchair service to the baggage claim/taxi area. I will probably be medicated so it will keep me from getting lost as well. GAWD I feel old!!!!!
I am so excited about meeting everyone!!!!! Last symposium there were quite a few forumites but nothing like this time!!!!
Am really looking forward to seeing Cheryl R's additional husbands. The one she brought last time was pretty cute!!
Caapt Deb(http://i235.photobucket.com/albums/ee60/Captdeb_photos/pirate-smiley-12.gif)
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I wish sooooooooooo much I was attending :'( :'( As you all know my FIL is terminal and almost at the end. Duty calls.
Lots and lots of pictures please so I feel like I am there with all of you.
Anne Marie
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I can’t wait to see our Pacific Northwest “Stevie†;D all spruced up in a tie (with his hiking boots ;)) :-* :D
DHM
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Methinks Mr. Stevie will have quite a harem as he is one of the few forumeer scallywags in attendance!!
Capt Deb
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Ahoy....What is business casual for pirates, again???? Never have heard. My suitcase is being packed so if a faux paus is in the process let me know soon, mateys.
I also think business casual for men in Arizona is nice ironed shorts, a polo and leather sandals - for women it is longish cuffed shorts, up scale tee, necklace and sandals. Dressy here for men is Dockers, Tommy Bahama shirt and nice loafers. Women it is just about anything. LOL.
Last time I wore a dress was probably in 2003, also. Weldon's coat will be dusty, but can't wait to see him all dressed up! ;-)
Take care all and safe journey. We leave around 11 Pacific time.
Mary
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I wish sooooooooooo much I was attending :'( :'( As you all know my FIL is terminal and almost at the end. Duty calls.
Lots and lots of pictures please so I feel like I am there with all of you.
Anne Marie
You have NOOOO clue how much you were able to be there... NO clue! xoxoxoxoxo
Mary, "Business Casual" out here on the Good Coast usually means along the lines of nice slacks (Dockers or such), nice top, no flip flops, etc.
Been running a TOTAL muck today... and still have yet to pack and leaving for airport early. Go figure.
Phyl
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Thank you, Phyl! That helps
Do have to say I love your area on the "good coast", too!
Can't wait to meet those in attendence but I am really, really sad about the "family" that can't make it. We will miss you!
Mary
8)
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Mary, you all need to do a trip to Bawsten.... :) And glad the "defination" helped. Still not packed here. Brutal day for me and trying to take a major deep breath to conquer packing. Me thinks to pack only a toothbrush and clean undies... will you all pick on me if I wear the same Business Casual for the entire trip? It will help me with packing :D
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No problem for me, Phyl! Clean Undie Casual!
TAKE CARE of YOU!
Mary
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Phyl,
Thanks :-* :-* :-* :-*
Anne Marie OXOXO
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Hi all at the Symposium!
Yes, i am just sitting here, dreaming of being in Chicago, but it did not work out ::) ...
So send pics when you can and give us updates!
Meanwhile, have fun, (learn new stuff) and enjoy!
Sincerely,
Sue
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Ditto...from Toledo...
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To the many forumites attending the AN symposium ~
I'm pretty busy today but I'm thinking of you folks and having a few pangs of regret that I couldn't join you in Chicago. Since that was impossible, I just wish you all a great time and like everyone else who couldn't make it, I'll look forward to photos and 'reports' on the events and festivities taking place, both official and 'unofficial'. :)
Jim
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Will do!
K
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*runs in... give hugglez to all those not here in Chicago..... passes the hat to raise bail money for me and the Captn, who's room is pirate decked-out..... runs back out.*
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Ahoy from the deck! Miss everyone who couldn't make it.
It is great meeting you that are here in Chicago.
Mary
8)
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*runs in... give hugglez to all those not here in Chicago..... passes the hat to raise bail money for me and the Captn, who's room is pirate decked-out..... runs back out.*
Just as planned...the lassies raising a ruckus in Chicago!!!
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Jim, Cheri - miss you and wish you were here. Lots of great education, but the highlight has definitely been meeting other "forumites.". We are planning a grp hat shot tomorrow - for those of us who have them and remembered to pack them. Gala dinner is tonite - none of the posties will be in heels! LOL.
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I wore wedgies!! Pink ones!
Capt Deb
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& boy were they cute too!!
K
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I hope you folks in Chicago are having a good time.
Syl
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I wore wedgies!! Pink ones!
Capt Deb
Now how did I miss those? I must have been focusing on that new "Steve original" you were sporting later in the evening ;)
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Steve and I just rolled into Portland from the airport- our flight was delayed. We tried to log on here, to the forum, but the wi-fi would not connect
Captain got left behind in Chicago- as her flight was cancelled...
(Still waiting for an update... Captain tell us once you land back home- and how you be.)
Capt'n Deb rode in the taxi with us sporting this fantastic Pirate hat...
BIG NEWS!
4 people were presented with ANA awards at the huge ballroom Gala banquet...
Our Pearly Whites won the volunteer award ... we are SOOOH proud of her.
:-* :-* :-* :-*
You folks are so awesome- it was great to meet you.
THe next one is in Cincinnati in 2011... Anne Marie I hope you come. Maybe we could be roomies... I was the only Canadian...
Virginia Fickel Ehr is an amazing woman- I am so glad to have met her.
I am sure we will post some pics soon.
Jet lagged and tired... but so glad I went. It was SOOH worth it.
DHM
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none of the posties will be in heels! LOL.
I was in heels, m'dear! :-* (granted, I had my "peg leg" to help the cause.....)
Yep, Kate... raised a rukus for sure (even had one of Chicago's finest in the elevator yesterday follow me towards our room.... until he stopped at the ice machine on our floor to fill up the water bottle!).... remind me and Deb and Taylor and Taylor's mom to share about us Pirates at lunch on Friday (or was it Saturday?) as we came marching in to sit at the Forum lunch tables...... I have to commend the ANA for recognizing the Discussion forums as we had special name tag labels for the forumites... were recognized at the opening ceremonies, etc. That shows how much ALL of you do to help the cause around here! I even had Dr. Wiet (Dr. "Dad"), when he gave me hugz, commenting on our pirate gear.. the forums and all that is done around here. Told him he's buying lunch next time I'm in town... he noted as long as I was pirate gear again! :)
Dazy Hazy Lady.... SOOO glad you and Steve made it back safely to the "other" coast ..... even after the delays.... and thank you...... ;) xoxoxo
What a fab time... for me to try to list all that I met... from Timb, Debbi, Lilan, MaryAZ, Jan, Lori (wearing a slightly tilted halo... and her lovely family!), Steve, Kaybo, etc... . just too many names for me to list... but most of all.... our fearless Captn Deb..... after 4 yrs...... with MAJOR tears flowing as I left for the airport yesterday........ and all the happy tears shed this past weekend...... YOU all are what make me who I am. Truly!
BTW, Kaybo...... thank that spouse of your's for returning my pirate flag, the scurvy scallywag that he is......... LOL! Hoping curlie girlie is feeling better and I'm sure the girls will be tickled to have you home!
Ok, I'm wiped, back to office job (and forum whip wrangler)........
Hugglez to all!
Phyl
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p.s. Just read where Capt. Deb, as of 9:36 this a.m., was STILL at the airport! Arrg!
Cheri
Just spoke to her on the phone and she's boarding the flight as I type..... will track her flight to make sure she FINALLY get's back home. I have some pics that desilu sent me but on home computer (on work laptop from office right now... I know, I know... shame on me!). Will post them later today.
Phyl