2011 Dimensions Bash - Moving Forward

[HeatherBBW]

I've closed the poll thread and started this thread so we can move forward fresh with the information below.



I know many of you feel strongly about the location and I totally understand. I actually have personal preferences as to where I'd like it to be myself as an attendee. I can assure you, that just as AnnMarie said, my personal preference isn't to have it in my backyard either.

I feel it's important to remind you all that I need your support even if your first choice wasn't chosen. I need to do what's best for the bash so that it can continue to be a success for years to come. Once we establish a following of folks who just can't live without their yearly fix of fatties and friends - then we can go anywhere we'd like and people will follow.

So I hope everyone understands and respects whatever decisions we have to make as a staff to move towards meeting those goals.

Most importantly, I want people who have shared in this post that your thoughts and input have NOT been taken into consideration and those ideas/thoughts will be considered as we move forward this year and in future years.

So as it stands, the best information as an update that I can offer now is the following:

1. I'm looking at June 9th to 13th and June 16th to 20th.
2. If I cannot find availability for June, I will be looking at August 11th to 15th with September being the last choice.
3. The event will not be in the same location as last year.
4. The event will be in the Northeast.
5. Our search is now targeted within the following target areas:

A. Southern NJ Area
B. Philadelphia Area
C. Baltimore/DC/Arlington Area

Please note that the above places can be very "vacation-like" with local attractions/sights/itineraries that can be added into your Dims Bash vacation. Many people travel to these places all year round and being that most of them are coastal or near large bodies of water, they are also great spots for summer vacations too. Quite popular in fact.

In closing, I struggle with whether or not I should post where I've begun my search. By doing so, it will lead to lots of questions and/or excitement and I'm still VERY unsure that I'm even able to make it happen within our budget and needs as it's a very popular vacation area, especially in the summer. But I've decided to share as maybe there is someone out here that might be able to give me some inside information and help in order to put it together. So, with that being said, I'm working towards Atlantic City, NJ. I think it may be out of our reach, but it has many valuable assets that it would bring to making the Dimensions Bash comfortable, accessible, vacation-like and a success.

I don't want to be a broken record.. but one more time .. hehe...
I hope (need/beg) that you will support all that I've written above and continue to do so as we move forward. We need your support to drive all the hard work ahead of us to make Dimensions Bash 2010 just as good as last year and hopefully better!

Hugs,
Heather

[Rowan]

Well, when you listed the three possibilities, i thought...ok...philly is doable, because i recently saw that flights to there are very affordable, however when you posted atlantic city, flights that far NE are very much not affordable for me personally....so unfortunately i, myself, will be ruled out for this year, but I hope everyone has just as good a time as they did this past year and I hope that in future years that money or locations are better for me so that i can attend again.

I guess I got spoiled having lived up in the NE for a couple years in attending the events and so definitely look forward to them again. :)

[KHayes666]

For my own selfish reasons I say Philly.....I've been to NJ and I've been to Baltimore, never been to Philly.

Had a chance to go to Philly once and I chickened out, would be nice to rectify the situation.

[HeatherBBW]

Rowan,

Atlantic City is only an hour from Philadelphia airport by car. So you saying that AC is too far NE to be able to afford, doesn't make sense.

Not only that, but AC airport has incredibly cheap deals from select cities. A few of them being in FL for only around $59 each way for a regular seat and $99 each way for a BIG SEAT which is a bigger seat that was once called first class.

So essentially, you can fly to this event if it's in Atlantic City cheaper then most by living in one of the few cities with direct flights to AC airport. Heck, I'd say it's probably 1/3 the cost or even less!

So, ruling your attendance out based on flight cost should be re-evaluated.

Hugs,
Heather

Well, when you listed the three possibilities, i thought...ok...philly is doable, because i recently saw that flights to there are very affordable, however when you posted atlantic city, flights that far NE are very much not affordable for me personally....so unfortunately i, myself, will be ruled out for this year, but I hope everyone has just as good a time as they did this past year and I hope that in future years that money or locations are better for me so that i can attend again.

I guess I got spoiled having lived up in the NE for a couple years in attending the events and so definitely look forward to them again. :)

[HeatherBBW]

For my own selfish reasons I say Philly.....I've been to NJ and I've been to Baltimore, never been to Philly.

Had a chance to go to Philly once and I chickened out, would be nice to rectify the situation.

Hi Kevin,

We aren't polling anymore for location preferences. We took the poll majority and then narrowed it down to the top 3 choices we thought would work. So right now that's where we are starting :)

Just so you know, going to one area of NJ isn't the same as all of the areas. Southern NJ is very different then Northern NJ. Atlantic City is on the jersey shore - much, much different area. :)

I don't even know if we can touch AC, but if we do, I want people to know it will be a completely different surrounding then northern NJ/NY metro-type areas.

Hugs,
Heather

[Rowan]

Rowan,

Atlantic City is only an hour from Philadelphia airport by car. So you saying that AC is too far NE to be able to afford, doesn't make sense.

Not only that, but AC airport has incredibly cheap deals from select cities. A few of them being in FL for only around $59 each way for a regular seat and $99 each way for a BIG SEAT which is a bigger seat that was once called first class.

So essentially, you can fly to this event if it's in Atlantic City cheaper then most by living in one of the few cities with direct flights to AC airport. Heck, I'd say it's probably 1/3 the cost or even less!

So, ruling your attendance out based on flight cost should be re-evaluated.

Hugs,
Heather


well when i look at flights to boston and NJ and such, ive not found cheap flights. I recently looked at philly and found $150 for a round trip flight, so that is what i was basing my guess about the costs about atlantic city on. As far as it being an hour away, i dont rely on rides from other people because i find other people to be horrendously unreliable and so id have to add into the cost that of a car as well. So that's why i was definitely rooting for SE intially or philly because SE I can drive and philly i know someone. Perhaps when the time comes and things are all laid out and in stone, maybe then I can have a better idea of if i can afford to go or not, but i definitely cant make plans with so much up in the air.

but thanks for the info..

[HeatherBBW]

I don't think you've read what I said. There is an airport in Atlantic City, albeit a small one. One that you can fly to directly from Florida for cheaper then the flight you mentioned to Philly. Florida is one of the handful of states that have a direct, cheap flight to ACY. Others have connections, etc.

If the Philly deal was a better one, you could take a shuttle bus right from Philly Airport to Atlantic City for probably $20 round trip and maybe even get a casino bonus that refunds that. Atlantic City is a very popular destination with travel buses coming from all surrounding areas for cheap. I remember taking the bus to AC from Yonkers, NY ages ago. It was $18 RT and I got a $10 cash back slot play and a free buffet. So basically they were paying me to go.

There is also a rail option directly from the airport that with one connection would get you to AC in a little over the amount of time it would take to drive and for about $15 or $20. SEPTA has a direct rail line servicing the Philadelphia airport which will take you downtown and connect you to the NJ Transit express rail line that quickly gets you to Atlantic City. Source(s): www.septa.com www.njtransit.com

I am just saying, don't shoot down the location based on price, when it's much cheaper to get there then you realize. If anything, you are in a extremely favorable location when it comes to expenses to get to AC. One of the reasons we are targeting AC is not only because of the beautiful coastal beaches, the attractions/amenities/scooters/shopping but also because it's super cheap to travel to and there are many options for different people.

We will be posting compiled travel information and tips if we are able to find a location in AC that will pick us up in our budget and work for the bash.

well when i look at flights to boston and NJ and such, ive not found cheap flights. I recently looked at philly and found $150 for a round trip flight, so that is what i was basing my guess about the costs about atlantic city on. As far as it being an hour away, i dont rely on rides from other people because i find other people to be horrendously unreliable and so id have to add into the cost that of a car as well. So that's why i was definitely rooting for SE intially or philly because SE I can drive and philly i know someone. Perhaps when the time comes and things are all laid out and in stone, maybe then I can have a better idea of if i can afford to go or not, but i definitely cant make plans with so much up in the air.

but thanks for the info..

[toni]

I flew out of the AC airport to go to the bash in Florida. I live in Newark, a mile from the Newark airport. SO I drove over 100 miles to AC to catch that flight. That is how good of a deal I got out of AC. So, keep an eye out Rowan, you will find something.

Truthfully, the bash can be held anywhere. I am willing to travel where ever to show my support for Dimensions. I had a blast last year. To me having the opportunity to discuss the issues of our community face to face is worth the investment of travel.

I have been to all three areas and all of them have stuff to do. They are all good picks and are very fun. For the foodees, Philly is full of the best of everything! AC is all about the buffets. Not sure about the food in the other area but I will research.

[toni]

OH and if flying into Philly, there is a direct septa train from Philly to AC. You should not encounter a problem or need to rent a car.

So, to everyone reading. Where there is a will, there is a way.
MAKE IT HAPPEN!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Eclectic_Girl]

Cool beans, Heather! AC never would have occurred to me, but it makes perfect sense!

I've always wanted to go to AC - maybe it's just the romantic idea of strolling along the famous boardwalk (beach without having to actually walk on sand? I'm in!), salt water taffy and other fairground-type foods.

I'm fine with the other locations as well - it's all about the fattie community, after all.

[indy500tchr]

Is the water in the ocean warm enough in June in AC? Or should I ask. Is the water safe to swim in?

Another thing to keep in mind the dates that you have chosen besides June 16th-20th kids and teachers are in school at the beginning of June an in August and September.

I've been to AC twice and it seems like a fun place with things to do. Don't know how safe or how big the BBW scene is in that immediate area but hey it's some place new. Just hope it's nice and warm.

[HeatherBBW]

The weather is summertime in June in AC. It averages in the 78-88 temperature.

As far as the ocean, I don't know the degrees, but I do know people go in it in the Summer. As far as safety, it's as safe as any other ocean I imagine. I think a few decades ago there was a shark attack, but it's uncommon.

For swimming, we will be choosing a hotel with a pool and that is where I imagine most people will spend their water time as beaches/sands are not size friendly for most BBWs.

I won't go in the ocean myself, I am like a fat buoy and the tide just pulls me out to sea each wave :P haha. That and unless the sand is wet and hard packed, I can't do sand walking. But I do know some girls my size still check the beach out, I'm just saying me personally. BUT, I will enjoy the ocean view, the smells, the boardwalk and the marina - all fun stuff.

Just a reminder though - I am not sure I can get into a hotel in AC within our budget. So don't make any solid plans until we finalize a location.

As for children and teachers, there isn't much we can do. We need to space our bash far enough away from the Vegas Bash and NAAFA. Both of which are in July and August. So to keep it in the summer, we need to do June. There have been many bashes over the years in Fall/Spring/Winter months when school is in and they've worked out as a complete success and we have to move forward with that in mind. Also, for AC, I would push to make sure that kids were still in school during our time there, because it means that there would be less families vacationing there and more adults. I love kids, but an overwhelming amount of them around areas where fat ladies are in bathing suits doesn't always make for a great mix.

[KHayes666]

The weather is summertime in June in AC. It averages in the 78-88 temperature.

As far as the ocean, I don't know the degrees, but I do know people go in it in the Summer. As far as safety, it's as safe as any other ocean I imagine. I think a few decades ago there was a shark attack, but it's uncommon.

For swimming, we will be choosing a hotel with a pool and that is where I imagine most people will spend their water time as beaches/sands are not size friendly for most BBWs.

I won't go in the ocean myself, I am like a fat buoy and the tide just pulls me out to sea each wave :P haha. That and unless the sand is wet and hard packed, I can't do sand walking. But I do know some girls my size still check the beach out, I'm just saying me personally. BUT, I will enjoy the ocean view, the smells, the boardwalk and the marina - all fun stuff.

Just a reminder though - I am not sure I can get into a hotel in AC within our budget. So don't make any solid plans until we finalize a location.

As for children and teachers, there isn't much we can do. We need to space our bash far enough away from the Vegas Bash and NAAFA. Both of which are in July and August. So to keep it in the summer, we need to do June. There have been many bashes over the years in Fall/Spring/Winter months when school is in and they've worked out as a complete success and we have to move forward with that in mind. Also, for AC, I would push to make sure that kids were still in school during our time there, because it means that there would be less families vacationing there and more adults. I love kids, but an overwhelming amount of them around areas where fat ladies are in bathing suits doesn't always make for a great mix.

That'll be the best birthday present ever, holding it in June would be great for me.

Can't wait till the bash :-)

[BbwSofiaRose]

I would definitely make it to a Bash in AC, i've always wanted to go there!

[NancyGirl74]

Jersey shore in the summer months is going to be packed with kids, school or no school. Especially, weekends. A lot of conventions are held down the shore too, VFW, Fire Fighters, Police Officers, etc. I'm not sure about AC but towns like Wildwood and Point Pleasant have one convention after another in the summer. Booking will be tough in any NJ shore town during summer months. Still, I love the shore. The shops, the beach, the craziness that is the boardwalk...*sigh* The only place in the world I'll eat salt water taffy and wear a t-shirt that says, "Wa-wa-watch the tram car, please!" is down the Jersey shore. :D

[disconnectedsmile]

A. Southern NJ Area
B. Philadelphia Area
C. Baltimore/DC/Arlington Area

Los Angeles never gets any love :(

[HeatherBBW]

Los Angeles never gets any love :(

There are many BBW events in your area for you to partake in. We will consider the west coast again in future years as we pick up extra numbers and loyalty attendance.

[disconnectedsmile]

There are many BBW events in your area for you to partake in.
where? :confused:

[HeatherBBW]

where? :confused:

Club Bounce - Butterfly Lounge and more - check the west thread or ask the locals in that area there. :)

[Dansinfool]

Is the water in the ocean warm enough in June in AC? Or should I ask. Is the water safe to swim in?

Another thing to keep in mind the dates that you have chosen besides June 16th-20th kids and teachers are in school at the beginning of June an in August and September.

I've been to AC twice and it seems like a fun place with things to do. Don't know how safe or how big the BBW scene is in that immediate area but hey it's some place new. Just hope it's nice and warm.

Katie,
Depending on the summer we have, the ocean here on the east coast may
not warm up till July or Aug. The Ocean down in AC can also be rough.
I'm sure there will be a pool in the hotel that is chosen. I'm at the other end of AC about and hour and a half up the coast. The Ocean can be fun,
but different factors to consider. The pool would be a safer way to go.
Another bash in my back yard, this could be interesting.
AC is my other favorite play ground. I'll be their next week :)

Be well and hope to see you at the Jerzzzzey Shore LOL.

[Slygore]

Woo-Hoo to the area so glad I voted I am in like flint!!! Please be Philly!!! Either way I am SO there

[Weeze]

Philly Philly Philly Philly Philly Philly Philly Philly Philly Philly Philly Philaaaaaaa :)


Pweese?

[fatgirlflyin]

I've closed the poll thread and started this thread so we can move forward fresh with the information below.



I know many of you feel strongly about the location and I totally understand. I actually have personal preferences as to where I'd like it to be myself as an attendee. I can assure you, that just as AnnMarie said, my personal preference isn't to have it in my backyard either.

I feel it's important to remind you all that I need your support even if your first choice wasn't chosen. I need to do what's best for the bash so that it can continue to be a success for years to come. Once we establish a following of folks who just can't live without their yearly fix of fatties and friends - then we can go anywhere we'd like and people will follow.

So I hope everyone understands and respects whatever decisions we have to make as a staff to move towards meeting those goals.

Most importantly, I want people who have shared in this post that your thoughts and input have NOT been taken into consideration and those ideas/thoughts will be considered as we move forward this year and in future years.

So as it stands, the best information as an update that I can offer now is the following:

1. I'm looking at June 9th to 13th and June 16th to 20th.
2. If I cannot find availability for June, I will be looking at August 11th to 15th with September being the last choice.
3. The event will not be in the same location as last year.
4. The event will be in the Northeast.
5. Our search is now targeted within the following target areas:

A. Southern NJ Area
B. Philadelphia Area
C. Baltimore/DC/Arlington Area

Please note that the above places can be very "vacation-like" with local attractions/sights/itineraries that can be added into your Dims Bash vacation. Many people travel to these places all year round and being that most of them are coastal or near large bodies of water, they are also great spots for summer vacations too. Quite popular in fact.

In closing, I struggle with whether or not I should post where I've begun my search. By doing so, it will lead to lots of questions and/or excitement and I'm still VERY unsure that I'm even able to make it happen within our budget and needs as it's a very popular vacation area, especially in the summer. But I've decided to share as maybe there is someone out here that might be able to give me some inside information and help in order to put it together. So, with that being said, I'm working towards Atlantic City, NJ. I think it may be out of our reach, but it has many valuable assets that it would bring to making the Dimensions Bash comfortable, accessible, vacation-like and a success.

I don't want to be a broken record.. but one more time .. hehe...
I hope (need/beg) that you will support all that I've written above and continue to do so as we move forward. We need your support to drive all the hard work ahead of us to make Dimensions Bash 2010 just as good as last year and hopefully better!

Hugs,
Heather


I'll be there, whereever it is. I'm sure that no matter what the location I can find plenty to do to keep me busy. Atlantic City would be great so long as the bash was able to remain affordable (which I know is your goal)!

[Famouslastwords]

I'd like to come. Depends on whether I have school that week or not. I have school year round with a week off every ten weeks, so it depends on when it falls. /shrug.

[GregW]

Thanks to Heather & crew for volunteering to put this on again. From what I heard via some of last year's attendees...it was fantastic!

Chances of us being able to make it this year are slim(irony not intended) and none, given usual commitments. But we will try to work it in if possible.

FWIW, I vectored over to Atlantic City in '97 when I visited the Philly conference and enjoyed the scene. The boardwalk was a fun place, and all four of us managed to come out ahead at the casinos. I know nothing about typical costs of the area in relation to hosting a convention, however, though June sounds like the best month.

Gotta get back to bowl games - Happy 2010!

[Pharadox]

I would really, really love to be there and because of when and where it is happening, it's entirely possible I can be. :smitten: :D

[Lefty]

Is the water in the ocean warm enough in June in AC? Or should I ask. Is the water safe to swim in?


You're looking at water in the 61-65 degree range.
Another words you will freeze your a$$ off. The water in August-September is in the low-mid 70s and that's when far more tourists come in August and far more locals come after the toursist leave in September.

Also the beaches in AC are not nearly as busy as the beaches in places like Wildwood or Ocean City.
Most people coming to AC come on buses stay there six to eight hours and gamble and leave without ever knowing that an ocean or a beach were outside.

[Hathor]

I live in the Great Lakes region, so any of those choices is fine by me. Nice to have something close that I might be able to attend.

[kathynoon]

I love these locations. I hope to be able to make it this year - which will depend upon the final dates.

[Darkeyes]

I am sure whatever locale is picked will be great! I would like to put my vote in for June though....:happy:

[marlowegarp]

Philly Philly Philly Philly Philly Philly Philly Philly Philly Philly Philly Philaaaaaaa :)


Pweese?

I second this emotion. I visited AC before going to the Springfield Bash last year. It is pretty tore up. The Boardwalk looked like a war zone and the whole town kind of had the feel of the alternate 1985 in Back to the Future II where Biff rules everything. Except instead of Biff, it was Donald Trump.

However, not to be a total Debbie Downer, the casinos are fun and there is music to be seen.

Philly however, does rule.

[Rosebud]

Philly is lovely, but it has been my experience that most events called "Philly", "Chicago", "Boston" etc actually take place in the suburbs (frequently twenty or thirty miles outside the city). Events in the actual city are difficult to coordinate due to pricing and parking issues. Everyone wants a bash in the city, but very few people want to pay $200 a night for the hotel, $30 for parking, and the additional bash fees associated with meeting room costs.

To my knowledge, only "Vegas" happens in Vegas.

Atlantic City is close enough to Philly that anyone wanting to make a trip into the city should be able to.

By the way... Any updates?

[Eclectic_Girl]

I agree. If previous bashes are anything to go by, the actual location means very little, except in hotel price and ease of getting to it by both car and airplane. Most of the time during the bash itself, we're hanging by the pool or in Hospitality or in somebody's room chatting. That stuff is much more fun to me than touristy stuff! If a bash is held near a place I'm interested in, I'll plan to do the tourist thing either before or after the bash.

Wherever it is, I'm there!

[kieker]

Hey, a guy can dream can't he? :) I live in Arlington and it's SLIM pickings let me tell you! We could use a little Dims magic....

[SparklingBBW]

Heather,

Any dates set yet? I hate to be a pest, but the weeks in June are starting to fill up fast in my office, and I need to get my time off request in soonly!

Thanks!

(I really, really, really, really, really want to attend again! It was so much fun the first time!)

[HeatherBBW]

Hi Hon,

Things are getting down to the nitty gritty. I am hoping to have dates by the end of next week or the beginning of the following. I'm still in RFP stages with a few hotels and depending on what the best responses are will decide the dates. As they all differ in availability.

But we are almost there - hang tight! :)

Hugs,
Hetaher

Heather,

Any dates set yet? I hate to be a pest, but the weeks in June are starting to fill up fast in my office, and I need to get my time off request in soonly!

Thanks!

(I really, really, really, really, really want to attend again! It was so much fun the first time!)

[Ashley]

Hey, a guy can dream can't he? :) I live in Arlington and it's SLIM pickings let me tell you! We could use a little Dims magic....

I hear the hot fatties all lived in the MD 'burbs for a while. ;)

[HeatherBBW]

Actually folks, I could possibly use a great deal of help.

Is anyone in the following areas that owns a digital camera, that might be able to pop over to the few prospective hotels we have on our short list to take a few pictures of the pool area and entry to the pools, etc. That would be a HUGE help.

I will be doing a site visit before signing a final contract - but it would be a great help to me to be able to remove or bump up the list a few of the hotels based on those pictures.

So if you live in the following areas and can help out, I can compensate for your time with some comp events at the bash:

Herndon, VA
Falls Church, VA
Baltimore, MD
Linthicum, MD
Philadelphia, PA

Thank you in advance!

Hugs,
Heather

[ladle]

Just soooooo disappointed to see that New Zealand is out of the running to hold this bash.....maybe in 2011.....fingers crossed.:doh:

Sorry I cannot volunteer anything except giving 'critique' over the photos when posted.
:D

[kieker]

I hear the hot fatties all lived in the MD 'burbs for a while. ;)

I hate being on the wrong side of the fence!

[kieker]

Actually folks, I could possibly use a great deal of help.

Is anyone in the following areas that owns a digital camera, that might be able to pop over to the few prospective hotels we have on our short list to take a few pictures of the pool area and entry to the pools, etc. That would be a HUGE help.

I will be doing a site visit before signing a final contract - but it would be a great help to me to be able to remove or bump up the list a few of the hotels based on those pictures.

So if you live in the following areas and can help out, I can compensate for your time with some comp events at the bash:

Herndon, VA
Falls Church, VA
Baltimore, MD
Linthicum, MD
Philadelphia, PA

Thank you in advance!

Hugs,
Heather


I have a good digital camera and can check out some hotels for you in both Herndon and Falls Church this weekend. Just let me know!

[HeatherBBW]

I have a good digital camera and can check out some hotels for you in both Herndon and Falls Church this weekend. Just let me know!

Awesome - We have one volunteer so far and you will completely the picture. You sir, have a PM :)

Hugs,
Heather

[BigBeautifulMe]

Good - I'm glad someone's able to do it locally. I would have driven from Richmond to do it if no one else was near there. Heather, if something else comes up and you find yourself in dire need of someone to do something in NoVA over a weekend, I may be able to do it. Just let me know. (too far to go on a weekday, though)

[Carrie]

Actually folks, I could possibly use a great deal of help.

Is anyone in the following areas that owns a digital camera, that might be able to pop over to the few prospective hotels we have on our short list to take a few pictures of the pool area and entry to the pools, etc. That would be a HUGE help.

I will be doing a site visit before signing a final contract - but it would be a great help to me to be able to remove or bump up the list a few of the hotels based on those pictures.

So if you live in the following areas and can help out, I can compensate for your time with some comp events at the bash:

Herndon, VA
Falls Church, VA
Baltimore, MD
Linthicum, MD
Philadelphia, PA

Thank you in advance!

Hugs,
Heather

I can do Linthicum and maybe Baltimore next weekend (meaning a week from this upcoming weekend), Heather. I've got a dashboard light on in my car I want checked out before making a hike over the bridge, so I can't swing it this weekend. Let me know if that will be a help!

[HeatherBBW]

Good - I'm glad someone's able to do it locally. I would have driven from Richmond to do it if no one else was near there. Heather, if something else comes up and you find yourself in dire need of someone to do something in NoVA over a weekend, I may be able to do it. Just let me know. (too far to go on a weekday, though)

I can do Linthicum and maybe Baltimore next weekend (meaning a week from this upcoming weekend), Heather. I've got a dashboard light on in my car I want checked out before making a hike over the bridge, so I can't swing it this weekend. Let me know if that will be a help!

Hi Girls,

I think I am all set between the two who have already stepped forward. If things don't pan out with the short list I give them and I need additional properties seen - I'll let you know and have you take the 2nd trips so I don't overwhelm them.

As it stands, I'm really hoping for one of two locations to be a perfect fit.

More to follow as it becomes available :) Thanks again for offering to help and thanks to those who are already on board. Yay for awesome dims peeps!

Hugs,
Heather

[Never2fat4me]

If you need someone to turn to for follow up, I am in Falls Church and can do NOVA area (and avoid forcing anyone to travel to the area as back-up).

Chris

[Gingembre]

Ohhhh this is so unfair - I am moving to NOVA this year and was so excited to get to a bash....just found out I am not moving til September. *sulks* NE bash in 2011 too please! :D

[BigBeautifulMe]

Hey, cool. We'll be quasi-neighbors. :)

[DitzyBrunette]

Atlantic City would be great. I live in Jersey City which has buses going to AC almost every day, and VERY affordable ticket prices. I've never been to a Dims bash, would love to go to one eventually so AC would be perfect.

[graceofangels]

AC is a lot of fun. Particularly in the summer. You can move freely thanks to the jitney that runs the span of the casinos. The Trop is fun but the best bars and clubs are in the Borgata in my opinion. lol. However the Trop does have Cuba Libre...and they ahve fantastic food, salsa nights, and the best mojitos. lol.

[graceofangels]

Well, when you listed the three possibilities, i thought...ok...philly is doable, because i recently saw that flights to there are very affordable, however when you posted atlantic city, flights that far NE are very much not affordable for me personally....so unfortunately i, myself, will be ruled out for this year, but I hope everyone has just as good a time as they did this past year and I hope that in future years that money or locations are better for me so that i can attend again.

I guess I got spoiled having lived up in the NE for a couple years in attending the events and so definitely look forward to them again. :)

Hi Rowan,

I was gonna PM this to you, but figured there may be some othe rpeople in the same boat. AC is about an hour ride from the Philadelphia airport, and many hotels offer free shuttles to and from the airport as a service for booking. As things draw closer and Heather makes a decision, if it ends up in AC, you may want to look at that!

[SoVerySoft]

I don't know if Atlantic City is still on the radar - Heather might be able to confirm. But I'll admit I had visions of us taking over the city and promoting it as Dimension's FATlantic City Bash!

Maybe when we have a few thousand people attending. :wubu:

[DitzyBrunette]

FATlantic City

Omg, I love that!!

[marlowegarp]

"Put your sweatpants on,
get some snacks and candy
and meet me tonight
in Fatlantic City"

[HeatherBBW]

< peeks head in quickly >

I know everyone us being super patient - honestly, thank you!

Things are started to come together but no solid location details yet.

But, I can say that AC or Fatlantic City (awesome!) is not in the budget cards this year. We can't properly guesstimate our attendance close enough to comfortably meet the pricing and minimum requirements needed to do it like we want to. That being said, the financial forecast is more then cloudy. :(

BUT that is not to say that it can't happen in future years and maybe as soon as 2011! We just need to have the bash in the newly targeted area and see how our attendance inflates. The location is just a huge dynamic change and only more history is needed before I can put us in front of the potential money train and not have it wreck. I hope this makes sense.

So in closing, we will be hosting 2010 within VA to MA as mentioned, we just can't do it Fatlantic style just yet. I do promise you though, that no matter what the location... that we (all of us dimmers who attend) will makes this year full of oodles of awesomeness!!

[marlowegarp]

< peeks head in quickly >

I know everyone us being super patient - honestly, thank you!

Things are started to come together but no solid location details yet.

But, I can say that AC or Fatlantic City (awesome!) is not in the budget cards this year. We can't properly guesstimate our attendance close enough to comfortably meet the pricing and minimum requirements needed to do it like we want to. That being said, the financial forecast is more then cloudy. :(

BUT that is not to say that it can't happen in future years and maybe as soon as 2011! We just need to have the bash in the newly targeted area and see how our attendance inflates. The location is just a huge dynamic change and only more history is needed before I can put us in front of the potential money train and not have it wreck. I hope this makes sense.

So in closing, we will be hosting 2010 within VA to MA as mentioned, we just can't do it Fatlantic style just yet. I do promise you though, that no matter what the location... that we (all of us dimmers who attend) will makes this year full of oodles of awesomeness!!

I know I need to spread rep around but I just want to give it to you. You bust your ass for this stuff. Really. Thanks.

[Wild Zero]

"Well now, every girl diets, baby, that's a fact
But maybe every pound that's lost, someday comes back"
"Put your sweatpants on,
get some snacks and candy
and meet me tonight
in Fatlantic City"

[KHayes666]

Wherever it is...I'll be there.

Atlantic City is way too expensive, just getting a single night room on a normal night there would be over 200 dollars.

PA, MA, VA...its all good :-)

[chetnbr1]

Suggestion: Instead of having the 2010 bash in Atlantic City, why not just have it in the same place as where the Philly Bash was being held in Valley Forge, PA?

Or else what about the other cities in NJ where there have been events for other large size organizations: Cities such as Saddle Brook, Totowa and Cherry Hill, NJ?

So you see there are still a lot of other choices in the PA and NJ areas.

[Weeze]

Valley Forge <3

[blue_eyes]

Just my opinion but if you are trying to decide between VA and MA why not go with VA. You do the monthly bashes in Mass all the time so VA would be different. Same as NJ they have their bashes there so why not choose a new location just to have something different to do. And being in the center of the East Coast you might get more southern people to come up.

[AshleyEileen]

I'm sad that nothing ever happens in Pittsburgh.

[rg770Ibanez]

Just my opinion but if you are trying to decide between VA and MA why not go with VA. You do the monthly bashes in Mass all the time so VA would be different. Same as NJ they have their bashes there so why not choose a new location just to have something different to do. And being in the center of the East Coast you might get more southern people to come up.

Agreed, if you guys did it in VA I think a lot of more ppl from the south would show up. Plus VA is closer to me than NJ :)

[MisticalMisty]

I wonder if the 2010 bash should be put off to 2011. It's already late in the year and I wonder how the time frame will effect attendance.

I know you are working your tushy off Heather. Thanks for taking this on for everyone!

[Webmaster]

I'm sad that nothing ever happens in Pittsburgh.

Well, Ben Roethlisberger is providing plenty of entertainment, both on and off the field.

[marlowegarp]

Indeed. He and Shaq are television gold.

[AshleyEileen]

Well, Ben Roethlisberger is providing plenty of entertainment, both on and off the field.

I still say that he's innocent.

[bigbri]

INNOCENT?!!.....Please, at best not guilty, this IS the real world.

[4wdBHM]

Ohhhh I'd be all over that

[Darkeyes]

Any new news on the bash front? Time is getting short for planning :(

[DeniseW]

yes, I doubt Butch will be able to get the week off he wants now, vacation is supposed to be put in a couple of months ago....:(. Oh well, if it's close enough, maybe we can come for a night or so.


Any new news on the bash front? Time is getting short for planning :(

[HeatherBBW]

Just a quick update:

I'm finding it incredibly hard to nail down an interested hotel. I thought that with the current economy situation, that it'd be easier.. not harder :(

Being it's April and finding a good "fat" fit and budget fit haven't yet come together, it is unlikely that there will be a June 2010 event. I'm revisiting the most interesting properties on my short list with new RFPs for August and see if we'll see if I get any bites. If not, it seems that the Fall might be a better option.

More information to follow as it becomes available. I'm sorry it's not more solid news.

Hugs,
Heather

[sizefriendlyacf]

Thanks for all your hard work.

[EtobicokeFA]

Thanks for all your hard work.

Yes. Thanks.

[toni]

Just a quick update:

I'm finding it incredibly hard to nail down an interested hotel. I thought that with the current economy situation, that it'd be easier.. not harder :(

Being it's April and finding a good "fat" fit and budget fit haven't yet come together, it is unlikely that there will be a June 2010 event. I'm revisiting the most interesting properties on my short list with new RFPs for August and see if we'll see if I get any bites. If not, it seems that the Fall might be a better option.

More information to follow as it becomes available. I'm sorry it's not more solid news.

Hugs,
Heather

Thanks for the update Heather. I am sorry you are having trouble finding a hotel but am relieved to hear you are pushing the date out. I was really sweating it. My job is annoying with vacation requests and I didn't want to miss this!

Thanks for all the hard work. :bow:

[Verbalcat]

Wow...I can't believe AC was not a good fit...the buffet at Harrah's on the Marina is my Sugar Honey Ice Tea!!!!.....:eat2:...AC Int Airport has the cheapest flights around via Spirit Airlines....The casinos are always advertising silly rates through out the week...it's the weekend where they try to make there money back...and with the warm weather approaching ..it seems as though they won't buckle?...Even with this amount of guests??...That suckz...Try the Hilton..they are on the the end of Strip...But whatever you chose, I can't wait to make it to my first function...

And ditto on the effort...putting something together for us is admirable and appreciated.

[bigirlover]

Any chance of doing it just north of Philly? Staying in a GORGEOUS Holiday Inn in Ft. Washington (about 10 min from Philadelphia). Got the room for $40 on Priceline.com. I know that is the priceline price, but maybe something could be worked out??? Just a suggestion. :D

[CastingPearls]

I've closed the poll thread and started this thread so we can move forward fresh with the information below.



I know many of you feel strongly about the location and I totally understand. I actually have personal preferences as to where I'd like it to be myself as an attendee. I can assure you, that just as AnnMarie said, my personal preference isn't to have it in my backyard either.

I feel it's important to remind you all that I need your support even if your first choice wasn't chosen. I need to do what's best for the bash so that it can continue to be a success for years to come. Once we establish a following of folks who just can't live without their yearly fix of fatties and friends - then we can go anywhere we'd like and people will follow.

So I hope everyone understands and respects whatever decisions we have to make as a staff to move towards meeting those goals.

Most importantly, I want people who have shared in this post that your thoughts and input have NOT been taken into consideration and those ideas/thoughts will be considered as we move forward this year and in future years.

So as it stands, the best information as an update that I can offer now is the following:

1. I'm looking at June 9th to 13th and June 16th to 20th.
2. If I cannot find availability for June, I will be looking at August 11th to 15th with September being the last choice.
3. The event will not be in the same location as last year.
4. The event will be in the Northeast.
5. Our search is now targeted within the following target areas:

A. Southern NJ Area
B. Philadelphia Area
C. Baltimore/DC/Arlington Area

Please note that the above places can be very "vacation-like" with local attractions/sights/itineraries that can be added into your Dims Bash vacation. Many people travel to these places all year round and being that most of them are coastal or near large bodies of water, they are also great spots for summer vacations too. Quite popular in fact.

In closing, I struggle with whether or not I should post where I've begun my search. By doing so, it will lead to lots of questions and/or excitement and I'm still VERY unsure that I'm even able to make it happen within our budget and needs as it's a very popular vacation area, especially in the summer. But I've decided to share as maybe there is someone out here that might be able to give me some inside information and help in order to put it together. So, with that being said, I'm working towards Atlantic City, NJ. I think it may be out of our reach, but it has many valuable assets that it would bring to making the Dimensions Bash comfortable, accessible, vacation-like and a success.

I don't want to be a broken record.. but one more time .. hehe...
I hope (need/beg) that you will support all that I've written above and continue to do so as we move forward. We need your support to drive all the hard work ahead of us to make Dimensions Bash 2010 just as good as last year and hopefully better!

Hugs,
Heather
Locations A & B would be best for Spouse and I but C isn't entirely out of the question. Dates so far are fine. Really hope this happens and really hope we can attend.

[CastingPearls]

Any chance of doing it just north of Philly? Staying in a GORGEOUS Holiday Inn in Ft. Washington (about 10 min from Philadelphia). Got the room for $40 on Priceline.com. I know that is the priceline price, but maybe something could be worked out??? Just a suggestion. :D
This sounds like a great idea too. Just outside any big city will be more affordable and still close enough to go into the city for daytrips...(and yeah, I live in NE PA, so I AM biased LOL)

[Russell Williams]

Heather, as I read through the comments about your choice, I am reminded of a comment I read years ago, memorized, and occasionally use.

" I LIKE MY WAY OF DOING IT BETTER THEN YOUR WAY OF NOT DOING IT"

And, as i think I told you, I try to remind myself, " If someone is doing a job I am not doing, do not want to do, and may not be able to do I should be very slow to complain about the way they are doing it."


Louise and I truly hope that we will be well enough to attend the gathering.

Louise will be well enough to go swimming after June 5 or so.

Theresa Davisson told me that she thought that the NAAFA convention would be the last fat convention that she would ever be able to attend. I made some suggestions and she wanted to know where the NAAFA and Dimensions conventions were to be because she hopes to go to at least one of them

Thank you for all the work you do.

Russell

[Russell Williams]

I do not know the requirements for a bash

However Washington County MD has several hotels that host conventions (We have had a couple of Cumberland Valley NAAFA conventions here.)

There is an airport with passenger service in Hagerstown.

There is a passenger train station 20 miles away. I would be willing to make a daily run to pick up 5 to 7 people (depending on size) each time.

There is a Grayhound Bus station in Hagerstown.

Hagerstown has a good bus service, and outstanding hospital and a World Champion Ambulance service should it be needed.


Hagerstown is at the intersections of interstate 70 and 81 so , by car, people can easily come from NY, Pittsburgh, and the East Coast.

All of the major hotels are within a 5 mile radius of the intersection of 70 and 81.

If Heather is interested and is willing to talk to me so she can give me more detailas I would be willing to make some phone calls and visit some of the local convention centers. ( I have an email from one of them asking if I and interesting in using there facility for meeting or such)

Russell Williams

[Russell Williams]

There is an outlet mall in Hagerstown, an Indian Tai restaurant, and the normal complement of Walmart, Target and fast food establishment.

A lovely city park and a low crime rate.

Russell Williams

[Never2fat4me]

Hagerstown is indeed a lovely area, and all things being equal, it would be a nice place to hold a bash. Unfortunately, all things are not equal, and while it is within a driveable distance of a number of major cities (and of the choices, other than Northern Virginia, it would be the closest for me), it is not near any either. The nearest major airport (BWI in Baltimore) is a good 75 miles away, which really makes it inconvenient for anyone wanting to fly to the area.

Being away from major urban centers is one of Hagerstown's charms; it's just unfortunate that this also means it really isn't a great place for a bash that wants to draw from the whole country, not just the East Coast.

Chris

[Russell Williams]

Airline Schedules
These flight times and days of operation are general and for your preliminary planning purposes only. Actual travel itineraries may vary. Please check with your airline for specific flight times and information.


Rates & Reservations | Airline Info | News Links

Flights to and from Orlando:
Flight # Time Su M T W Th F S
714 6:25 pm departure — x — — — x —
713 5:45 pm arrival — x — — — x —

Rates & Reservations | Airline Info | News Links

Flights to and from BWI:
Time Su M T W Th F S
6:00 am departure x x x x x x
10:23 am arrival x x x x x x
10:45 am departure x x x x x x x
12:28 pm arrival x x x x x x x
12:48 pm departure x x
2:53 pm arrival x x
3:15 pm departure x x x x x x x
4:58 pm arrival x x x x x x x
5:20 pm departure x x x x x x
8:58 pm arrival x x x x x x


http://www.flyhagerstown.com/flights/index.html

[BigBeautifulMe]

Right, Russell, but it's not a MAJOR airport, so the flights will be more $$$$$ and there will be fewer direct ones. More layovers/transfers = less fattie-friendly.

[indy500tchr]

Is there even going to be a DIMS bash? By this time last year I already had my hotel reservations and flight to Orlando.

[Russell Williams]

Right, Russell, but it's not a MAJOR airport, so the flights will be more $$$$$ and there will be fewer direct ones. More layovers/transfers = less fattie-friendly.


is something-a dimension convention in a place where the airport is awkward

better than

nothing -- no dimensions convention at all.

Or, is nothing better than something.

[Russell Williams]

Is there even going to be a DIMS bash? By this time last year I already had my hotel reservations and flight to Orlando.

it would probably have to be done in August or in the fall.

[BigBeautifulMe]

Yeah, Katie, since it looks like you might have missed this, Heather posted this earlier this month:

Just a quick update:

I'm finding it incredibly hard to nail down an interested hotel. I thought that with the current economy situation, that it'd be easier.. not harder :(

Being it's April and finding a good "fat" fit and budget fit haven't yet come together, it is unlikely that there will be a June 2010 event. I'm revisiting the most interesting properties on my short list with new RFPs for August and see if we'll see if I get any bites. If not, it seems that the Fall might be a better option.

More information to follow as it becomes available. I'm sorry it's not more solid news.

Hugs,
Heather

[indy500tchr]

well that's kind of a bummer. i always envisioned the DIMS bash to be a summer affair since there is usually a NJ Bash and so many HB big events in the fall.

[BigBeautifulMe]

I think it was fully intended to be, but a lack of hotels willing to host us at a reasonable rate during the summer just meant it couldn't happen that way this year. :(

[HeatherBBW]

Yeppers, what Ginny posted was my last status :(

Since then, life things have gotten in the way and I've not been able to hit the pavement again with a new target area.

The idea of postponing 2010 to 2011 is something that has been discussed, so we can keep it a summer bash and announcing well in advance to promote (like before the end of summer for 2011), but I don't know if it's a good idea to skip a year or not. Many suggested that due to people trying to recover from financial stuff that it might just be the way to go.

Anyone have an opinion on that either way? Especially those who plan on attending. Thanks in advance for responding.

Hugs,
Heather

[CurvaceousBBWLover]

Baltimore and Linthicum would be great places to hold a Dims bash. The BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport is nearby, and there are also light rail trains, buses and highways that connect the area to the rest of the east coast. I95 is not far away. There are a lot of sites to see.

Virginia has had more than its share of BBW events; Philadelphia has Phillybash every year. So bring the Dims bash on down to Baltimore or Linthicum.

[SoVerySoft]

...The idea of postponing 2010 to 2011 is something that has been discussed, so we can keep it a summer bash and announcing well in advance to promote (like before the end of summer for 2011), but I don't know if it's a good idea to skip a year or not. Many suggested that due to people trying to recover from financial stuff that it might just be the way to go.

Anyone have an opinion on that either way? Especially those who plan on attending. Thanks in advance for responding.

Hugs,
Heather


Heather I agree that it isn't a good idea to skip a year. I don't think it's a crime to have an autumn event this year - the All Out Fall Out in MA was always greatly anticipated, and fun to attend.

I also agree that nailing down the dates for next year and announcing by Sept 2010 is a wise move.

[MzDeeZyre]

Heather I agree that it isn't a good idea to skip a year. I don't think it's a crime to have an autumn event this year - the All Out Fall Out in MA was always greatly anticipated, and fun to attend.

I also agree that nailing down the dates for next year and announcing by Sept 2010 is a wise move.

I agree 100%!!

[sizefriendlyacf]

I would agree that an event in September would be excellent. I would not like to skip a year. My best to all till it happens.

[Eclectic_Girl]

In theory, it's better not to skip a year. In reality, it takes a lot of time and effort to get something like this off the ground, especially when it's something you're trying to wedge in between work, family, and other life commitments. There is an unbelievably long list of factors that go into choosing a venue for our specific population, and finding someplace that meets most, if not all, of those criteria *and* is affordable for most Dimmers is needle-in-a-haystack hard. And having the money in advance for deposits is a whole 'nother issue.

I don't really have a say, since I will almost certainly be unable to attend this year, but I wanted to put it out there that these national/international events take a lot of time in advance to plan.

[Carrie]

As much as it pains me to think practically, I think, given the difficulty of finding a venue for this year, that at this late date the time and energy that would be expended in wrangling something for the fall would probably be better spent finding and locking down a location and date for 2011 by this fall. That way people have tons of advance notice and can put in for time off at work, make affordable travel arrangements, save up money, etc. I think it would result in very good attendance.

As always, many thanks to you, Heather, for organizing this hootenanny!

[OneWickedAngel]

I think it may be a little too late in the season to get anything meaningful and especially affordable going for this year. Anything in the fall will almost immediately lose all who are involved in education as a student or an employee as they won't be able to come. Also, it will most likely come into conflict with the an MA or NJ event as people are not likely going to be able to afford both.

So many of us had such a great time! As much as I'd hate to skip a year, I have to agree with Carrie on this.

[Tmhays87]

Much as it pains me to say it as we near the one-year anniversary of the first, fantastic Dims Bash, I have to agree with what others have said about it being a better option to start planning and nailing down for next summer.

I say this mostly for reasons that are purely selfish: times are tough right now and I would probably have no way to attend this year, regardless of whether it happens in summer or fall. But, also, I see this course of action as being the best thing for the Bash. With more time to find the right place and plan everything that goes into such a massive event, it can only result in positive results. Plus, I know I'm not alone in being financially troubled due to the economy, so more time also equals more recovery/saving time so more people can come :D

All that being said, I am SO looking forward to the next Dimensions Bash. The memories of last year's Bash are among my most cherished. Here's to another great time for everybody, whenever it happens!

P.S. - My vote is still for a return to Orlando, FWIW :happy:

[ssflbelle]

Tmhays87 I agree an Orlando bash would be great.

[sizefriendlyacf]

Hi Everyone,
It is now the middle of June, although I would love to attend a Dims bash this year, I am concerned about the feasibility of getting it all together and established for this year. Heather is super about her dedication to trying to get it done. It is a dissapointment but I believe if we can't do something solid and well designed for this year. Planning for a May or June 2011 Bash may be the best course of action. This will allow for everyone to be able to put the dates in the planner and know exactly where and when. I think location is secondary to finding a good and accepting location with easy access to pools and activities. Keep on keeping on Heather and we look forward to whatever decisions need to be made to make. Thank You again for all your work and effort

[queensizedelight]

I am Hoping that one day Canada starts something! It's sad how the plus size community/market etc is just not really celebrated in Montreal :(
I won't lose hope though :)

[KHayes666]

I am Hoping that one day Canada starts something! It's sad how the plus size community/market etc is just not really celebrated in Montreal :(
I won't lose hope though :)


I haven't been to Montreal since Game 7 in 08 (ugh, don't remind me lol).

Still a beautiful city (with beautiful girls quite like Queensizeddelight) so it would be a VERY good decision to hold an event there.

[~nai'a~]

That would be so wonderful!

Let's cross our fingers (and our toes)..... ;)

It's long over due!! Montréal would be an ideal place to host events! :p

[AppreSheAte]

A winter bash in Florida wouldn't necessarily be bad...

A winter bash at a resort could also be pretty amazing - hot tubbing, large buffets are the norm, sledding, snow ball fights, snow person making, hot chocolate with lots of marshmellows, hot steaming pools, and how about some cooking contests for gosh sakes?!

Regional bashes is another possibility. Canada even could be a great destination. Would more than one bash be bad?

Well, just some thoughts...:eek:

[OneWickedAngel]

A winter bash in Florida wouldn't necessarily be bad...

A winter bash at a resort could also be pretty amazing - hot tubbing, large buffets are the norm, sledding, snow ball fights, snow person making, hot chocolate with lots of marshmellows, hot steaming pools, and how about some cooking contests for gosh sakes?!

Regional bashes is another possibility. Canada even could be a great destination. Would more than one bash be bad?

Well, just some thoughts...:eek:

There are already several mini-bashes held through out the year which are popular. I would compare the Dims bash to be more of a Dimensions only version of the Vegas bash. Something on that scale really can not be held more than once a year.

[Darkeyes]

A winter bash in a warmer climate would be a good escape I think. No much competition in January by other bashes too. But still, it is August and it may be too late to get something together now. :(

[HeatherBBW]

Hi Folks,

Just a quick note to let you know that we've definitely decided to move the next Dimensions Bash to 2011. This is due to a great amount of factors and the decision was not made lightly.

We hope that you will make plans to join us next year and we will be posting more details as things progress after the beginning of the year. Thanks for all your feedback and patience. We certainly appreciate it.

Hugs,
Heather
Dims Bash Coordinator

[HappyFA75]

That would be so wonderful!

Let's cross our fingers (and our toes)..... ;)

It's long over due!! Montréal would be an ideal place to host events! :p

Need passport. People like me cant get one and prefer to keep stuff in the U.S. :happy:

[Jay West Coast]

Need passport. People like me cant get one and prefer to keep stuff in the U.S. :happy:

For the record, you need a passport to get back INTO the United States. The Canadians are pretty freakin chill.

[sierrak]

What about somewhere centralized in the U.S....somewhere in the Midwest?

[indy500tchr]

What about somewhere centralized in the U.S....somewhere in the Midwest?

I agree but since there isn't a strong bbw community here they have nixed that idea.

[sierrak]

I agree but since there isn't a strong bbw community here they have nixed that idea.

Seems ironic that there isn't a strong bbw community in the Midwest given that there are so many bbw's located in the Midwest everywhere I look. I would think it would be a great opportunity to raise awareness. I'm wondering if that's part of the problem.

[LillyBBBW]

Seems ironic that there isn't a strong bbw community in the Midwest given that there are so many bbw's located in the Midwest everywhere I look. I would think it would be a great opportunity to raise awareness. I'm wondering if that's part of the problem.

Maybe just the opposite. There's no need for such awarenesses. Everybody is just walking around, living their lives, earning and losing respect based on merits which is as it should be.

[indy500tchr]

Seems ironic that there isn't a strong bbw community in the Midwest given that there are so many bbw's located in the Midwest everywhere I look. I would think it would be a great opportunity to raise awareness. I'm wondering if that's part of the problem.

Well there is a rather large group up in Chicago but they have their parties out in the 'burbs instead of the city.

[peppermint rhino]

I vote for Philly or DC since I can actually get to one of them!

[VVET]

Well there is a rather large group up in Chicago but they have their parties out in the 'burbs instead of the city.

We had to close down our chapter (Chicago) almost two years ago mostly because we weren't getting younger members to join. They are more interested in the social groups in the 'burbs'.

[Navydude]

Maybe just the opposite. There's no need for such awarenesses. Everybody is just walking around, living their lives, earning and losing respect based on merits which is as it should be.

Lilly got mad rationalization skills!:bow:

[Lalazuu]

I've closed the poll thread and started this thread so we can move forward fresh with the information below.



I know many of you feel strongly about the location and I totally understand. I actually have personal preferences as to where I'd like it to be myself as an attendee. I can assure you, that just as AnnMarie said, my personal preference isn't to have it in my backyard either.

I feel it's important to remind you all that I need your support even if your first choice wasn't chosen. I need to do what's best for the bash so that it can continue to be a success for years to come. Once we establish a following of folks who just can't live without their yearly fix of fatties and friends - then we can go anywhere we'd like and people will follow.

So I hope everyone understands and respects whatever decisions we have to make as a staff to move towards meeting those goals.

Most importantly, I want people who have shared in this post that your thoughts and input have NOT been taken into consideration and those ideas/thoughts will be considered as we move forward this year and in future years.

So as it stands, the best information as an update that I can offer now is the following:

1. I'm looking at June 9th to 13th and June 16th to 20th.
2. If I cannot find availability for June, I will be looking at August 11th to 15th with September being the last choice.
3. The event will not be in the same location as last year.
4. The event will be in the Northeast.
5. Our search is now targeted within the following target areas:

A. Southern NJ Area
B. Philadelphia Area
C. Baltimore/DC/Arlington Area

Please note that the above places can be very "vacation-like" with local attractions/sights/itineraries that can be added into your Dims Bash vacation. Many people travel to these places all year round and being that most of them are coastal or near large bodies of water, they are also great spots for summer vacations too. Quite popular in fact.

In closing, I struggle with whether or not I should post where I've begun my search. By doing so, it will lead to lots of questions and/or excitement and I'm still VERY unsure that I'm even able to make it happen within our budget and needs as it's a very popular vacation area, especially in the summer. But I've decided to share as maybe there is someone out here that might be able to give me some inside information and help in order to put it together. So, with that being said, I'm working towards Atlantic City, NJ. I think it may be out of our reach, but it has many valuable assets that it would bring to making the Dimensions Bash comfortable, accessible, vacation-like and a success.

I don't want to be a broken record.. but one more time .. hehe...
I hope (need/beg) that you will support all that I've written above and continue to do so as we move forward. We need your support to drive all the hard work ahead of us to make Dimensions Bash 2010 just as good as last year and hopefully better!

Hugs,
Heather

I wish it were closer!

[sizefriendlyacf]

I am currently beginning my 2011 Calendar and am excited about doing another Dims Bash. I am a little confused by the amount of 2010 stuff in these postings and would appreciate a forum to completely separate the information stream. Heather you are appreciated by us all. Hope to see you soon
dennis

[BigBeautifulMe]

Dennis, all the information in this thread was about a 2010 bash, which did not happen. I'm sure once plans start for a 2011 bash there will be new threads about it. Right now all the threads/info in this forum is outdated.

[sizefriendlyacf]

Thank you for the updated information. The title of this thread should be changed from 2011 Dimensions Bash-Moving Forward. I just got confused that's all.
Pleasant Day to you

[CurvaceousBBWLover]

Hey, a guy can dream can't he? :) I live in Arlington and it's SLIM pickings let me tell you! We could use a little Dims magic....

I have made the same complaint too up here in MD. But there are women everywhere. BBW events are good, but you will find more women at an activity where you have a lot in common with others.

[Robbie G.]

All I know is that I wanna go this year. I'm certain that Heather and her staff will chisel out the place to be and it will all work out. Thanks Heather. With you as you hammer out the details.