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Fun Stuff => CHATTER => Topic started by: Liz on 09 Feb 2009, 12:01

Title: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Liz on 09 Feb 2009, 12:01
Alright folks, it's that time of year again. Here is the dealio.

Last summer, at the end of June, approximately 18 of your fellow forumites met up in Toronto and had the most rad series of hangouts known to mankind. This summer we are hoping to top that, both in number of forumites and quality of hangouts. The focus of the meetup this year is the lovely city of Chicago, Illinois. The internet will be descending on the unsuspecting village from July 31 (Friday) to August 3 (Monday).

This thread is for planning! Mainly we are looking into housing, as it's about that time to start booking before things fill up. Here are the options so far:
 
- Staying with friends of yours in the city, booking a hotel/hostel room. BUT---
- We have a house on reserve, if you will. It can sleep a ton of people, and the more we get, the more fun it will be (and cheaper! See it here http://www.elitechicagorentals.com/listings/details/45)

Basically what I am looking for in this thread is a list of attendees so we can see what are options are. Please indicate whether you are coming, how sure you are of that decision, and what sort of housing you are looking at.

See you in July!

ATTENDANCE

Definitely:
Kris (Metope)
Jens (Jeans)
May  (Barmymoo)
Stephen (ackblom12)
Kat (Papersatan)
Liz (Misconception)
John (KvP)
Edith (Edith)
Jodie (jodizzle)
Linds (Linds)
Emilio (E.Spaceman)
Oli (Oli)
Matt (mberan42)
Dennis (dennis)
Katie (calenlass)
Johnny (Johnny C)
Tommy (Ptommydski)
Jordan (ozymandias)
Mai (mooface)
Sean (Vendetagainst)

Probably:
Jason (RedLion)
Jon (Cernunnos)
Cathy (ruyi)
Tyler (Tyler)

Maybe:
Rachel (pen)
Yelley (yelley)
Jason (someotherguy)
Jill (Darkbluerabbit)
Emaline (Emaline)
Anna (20_Jazz_Funk_Greats)
Lise (Lise)
Jussi (Dollface)
Phil (Boro_Bandito)
Brian (LiterSize)
Tom (Gilead)
Ernie (Ernest)

HELL NO:
Shane (valley_parade)
Darryl (Sox)
Alex (Alex C)
Sean (objects inside clouds)
Jace (PantsFTW)
James (slick)
Will (Will)

CHICAGOCON ACTIVITIES
 - All attendees will pose with a sign that says "Hi Andy and Ally!" because they want us to.
 - Chicagocon Prom- good times!
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Barmymoo on 09 Feb 2009, 12:07
We have a Facebook events page which is quite helpful but since not everyone has Facebook it'd be better to duplicate that list rather than rely on it.

Here is the link (http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/event.php?eid=47190271821) for anyone who is Facebooking and not yet a member. If you RSVP and then your attendance status changes it'd be helpful if you could change it on the events page too. :-)

There is also a facebook group; it is private so you need to send Linds a facebook message in order to join it. Please post there to let Edith know whether or not you are staying in the house.

The Accommodation

An extremely nice house has been booked for Friday 31st July to Monday 3rd August, which is three nights. Below is a list of people who are staying in the house, maybe staying in the house or definitely not staying in the house.

Definites
May (Barmymoo)
Edith (Edith)
Stephen (ackblom12)
Kat (Papersatan)
Emilio (E.Spaceman)
Liz (Misconception)
Kris (Metope)
Jens (Jeans)
John (KvP)
Linds (Linds)
Jodie (jodizzle)
Oli (Oli)
Katie (calenlass)
Johnny (Johnny C)
Mai (mooface)
Tommy (Ptommydski)

Definitely Not
Cathy (ruyi)
Jordan (ozymandias)
Richard (october1983)

Yet To Reply
Dennis (dennis)
Matt (mberan42)
Sean (Vendetagainst)
Tommy (Ptommydski)
Jason (RedLion)
Jon (Cernunnos)
Tyler (Tyler)
Will (Will)
??? (Dollface)
Anna (20_Jazz_Funk_Greats)
Brian (LiterSize)
Emaline (Emaline)
Jason (someotherguy)
Jill (Darkbluerabbit)
Lise (Lise)
Phil (Boro_Bandito)
Rachel (pen)
Yelley (yelley)
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Metope on 09 Feb 2009, 12:07
Jens and I are 100% sure, we already booked flights and we will be at Edith's place before and after Chicagocon. I don't know about him, but to me renting an apartment or a house seems like the best idea.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: ackblom12 on 09 Feb 2009, 12:14
Me and Kat, barring some horrible family or monetary incident, are definitely coming. Housing is going to depend entirely on what other folks are feeling. We're all for the hotel/rental idea personally. More contact wsith the forumites over the weekend is better.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: pen on 09 Feb 2009, 12:18
I really really wanna go to this, but I'm far too poor, right now. I kept thinking with my tax return I could pull it off, but it's really not practical for me. 
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Barmymoo on 09 Feb 2009, 12:48
This is the apartment (http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p93680hi) that Liz suggested and we all liked the look of. With 12 that would work out at about $160 for four nights and we could fit more people in.

If we want to get an apartment, Edith is happy to pay for it on her credit card providing that she gets the money from everyone promptly and probably it would be good if we all paid a deposit to her before it got booked or at least very soon afterwards. That's why we need to know who is coming!
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Boro_Bandito on 09 Feb 2009, 12:50
I RSPV'ed on facebook, so I must be going, right?

On the serious side, I will be in Chicago during the Chicagocon dates. Now granted, it is heavily leaning towards me sleeping on my grandmother's couch in a retirement home for lodging, but this may change depending on whether I get a job and actually save up some money to be used towards such things. Its true that its more fun when everyone can sleep in a central location, makes it easier to plan the day and get moving since everyone's already there, and I would love to chip in for an apartment/rental. But I mean, that couch is free, and my grandmother is one hell of a baker. Though I will be hanging out with her and some cousins who live in Chicago for several days prior to Chicagocon, so I doubt my time will be split in any way.

Edit: Jesus that place looks palatial.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: ackblom12 on 09 Feb 2009, 13:00
Holy shit that place looks fantastic. Just give the word and me and Kat will scrounge up our deposit within the week.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Slick on 09 Feb 2009, 13:12
I do not think I will be coming because I probably won't be able to afford it, money-wise or time-wise.

If I do come, it will probably be because my exam schedule worked out nicely and I had a week to bike it each way. I give that maybe a 5% likelihood of happening.


p.s. echotommy re: quickdecisions
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: october1983 on 09 Feb 2009, 13:21
I will definitely be there, and like the apartment idea, but I'm basically up for whatever accommodation everyone chooses. That said, if we run out of room in whatever place we choose to stay, I am happy to be the first to bow out as I have other places in the city I can (and will, prior to and after Chicagocon) crash.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: KvP on 09 Feb 2009, 13:38
Barring some terrible accident / loss of money / impulse purchase, I will definitely be attending.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Alex C on 09 Feb 2009, 14:19
Liz, I didn't see myself mentioned there; you still up for possibly car pooling like we had discussed via PMs? I know I've been rather slacky about getting involved in chicagocon planning, but I can change, dammit.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Edith on 09 Feb 2009, 14:45
Yeah, Liz, I think you could put me in the definites, too.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: sean on 09 Feb 2009, 15:07
I am a probably. I want to show up and probably will but there is still a chance I won't.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Tyler on 09 Feb 2009, 15:26
Barring another flu/fever in epic timing, I shall be there.

Dibs on a bedroom.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: mooface on 09 Feb 2009, 15:46
well, it now looks like there is a 95% chance i will be there!

so count me in, i guess.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: jodizzle on 09 Feb 2009, 15:52
Oh hi liz, you can count me in 100% too!  I am just waiting on the travel agents to get back to me about the best flights to get and then I will be booking.  I am absolutely coming.
Also I like the apartment idea!
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Liz on 09 Feb 2009, 15:59
Alex, Eed, I have just been updating the list as people post so I don't miss anyone or make any wrong assumptions. And yes, Alex, I am still up for carpooling. We can work out the details for that closer to the actual event.

Also,

Dibs on a bedroom.

Same for me. Considering my tentative plans for Chicagocon you probably don't want me sleeping in a common area.

:-D
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: tania on 09 Feb 2009, 16:09
i still don't know what's going on with my life, but i'm going to be honest and say in the last few months this has progressively been a lower and lower priority for me and it's looking increasingly likely that i really won't have the money for this. i'll see what comes up in august, but for now everyone should probably assume i won't be attending.

hey james maybe we can hang out that weekend or something.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Lines on 09 Feb 2009, 16:32
I am a definite.

That apartment does look rather splendid. I think if we stayed there, I'm not sure I'd want to leave! Also, dibs on a bedroom. Specifically, dibs on a bedroom with people who do not snore and people not named Liz. Wink wink nudge nudge. (Just kidding. Liz is good to share a bed/room with.)
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Skibas_clavicle on 09 Feb 2009, 16:33
I'll probably be there. I plan to find free accomodations somehow because I haven't paid for a hotel room in 3 years. That or crash on someone's hotel floor for a night and slip them like 30 bucks out of sheer guilt. See you in Chi-Town, bitches.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: KvP on 09 Feb 2009, 16:47
It's unfortunate that you probably won't make it, tania. I would have liked to meet you. :(

Do we have an idea of when the individual peoples will be there? Is the given time span just the "official" period at which time most if not all people will show up? I ask because I could possibly arrive earlier than that, depending on if anybody else kicked around Chi-town at the time and if I have companions with me (I might)
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Slick on 09 Feb 2009, 17:38
hey james maybe we can hang out that weekend or something.

We could do that, or you could learn to ride a bike and we could bike there! Seriously, it's less than 800km, I figure four, five days tops. Doing 20 km/h ten hours a day four days in a row can't be that bad.

(ok my use of 'seriously' there might not have been truly sincere)
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Gilead on 09 Feb 2009, 18:00
Oh guys put me down for a maybe, if I'm still in america when it's on I will probably come.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: yelley on 09 Feb 2009, 21:39
jason and i are maybes on this one. depends how the whole house buying thing goes and whether we have any money and PTO time left at work.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: E. Spaceman on 09 Feb 2009, 21:52
Definitely going to this.

I mantain that we should rent the mansion with a tennis court and fishing
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: KvP on 09 Feb 2009, 22:04
Emilio I am totally going to fish you.

Heads up.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: E. Spaceman on 09 Feb 2009, 22:16
This  (http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p222010)is the mansion I am referring to. It seems pretty nice but mostly I really want to see what is up with that fishing.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: RedLion on 09 Feb 2009, 22:17
Put me down as a "Probably." I'd have no reason not to come, unless my internship in Madison pulls through.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: RedLion on 09 Feb 2009, 22:22
That mansion. I would sleep in the jacuzzi.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Darkbluerabbit on 09 Feb 2009, 22:34
Hmm.  I'll be living in southern Wisconsin at that point.  It would be the most opportune time to go to a QCcon. 

I'll say I'm a maybe.  Depends on how much money I have, and how cheap accommodations and travel will be.  I have an air mattress and stuff, so I can happily camp on the floor somewhere.  Perhaps some arrangement can be made where those who want to can split the cost for the bedrooms, and we cheapskates can pitch in to bring the overall cost down, or something?  Looks like there's lots of floor space in that mansion, and couches as well.

Carpooling would be swell also.  I don't want to call dibs on space in someone's car or offer to drive until I'm more sure about this, though.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Emaline on 09 Feb 2009, 23:11
I could more than likely do this, but money is a problem at this point. I may know by the end of the month if I'm 100% or not.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: RedLion on 10 Feb 2009, 00:10
Hmm.  I'll be living in southern Wisconsin at that point.

Really? Whereabouts?
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Jace on 10 Feb 2009, 00:22
Hey guys, I can book the rooms like 3 months in advance. Each room would be like $90ish (after tax) a night, split between however many are in the room. Also, I am totally a go for going to this, no matter how we decide to stay there.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: valley_parade on 10 Feb 2009, 05:03
I really really wanna go to this, but I'm far too poor, right now. I kept thinking with my tax return I could pull it off, but it's really not practical for me. 

Same. Except I'm using my tax return to come hang out with you and Jon next month.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: pen on 10 Feb 2009, 05:24
Almost as fun, right?  Right?
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: valley_parade on 10 Feb 2009, 06:12
It was last time! I don't see why it would be any different.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: valley_parade on 10 Feb 2009, 06:16
But but but. Jordan and I were thinking about trying to do a SXSWcon at some point.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Oli on 10 Feb 2009, 08:03
I am definitely coming to this, Liz add me to that list.

I think an apartment would be tops but am happy with a hostel or what have you. Basically I am not too fussed about where I sleep, although it would be fabulous to be in the house the internet rented.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: mberan42 on 10 Feb 2009, 13:59
oh what the hell how was i forgotten?
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Liz on 10 Feb 2009, 14:47
You don't matter to me anymore.

Sorry.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Vendetagainst on 10 Feb 2009, 15:03
Put me down for "probably". I can almost definitely go unless I am in Tucson still by that time.

(My name is Sean, by the way)
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: dennis on 10 Feb 2009, 15:47
We should look around a bit first. Check locations and the like. See if this is a good idea.
Once you get actual addresses for your likely candidates, I can vet them for you guys, make sure public transportation is nearby, etc.

I guess you can count me in to this thing, since I'll probably be here anyway. Languishing.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: sean on 10 Feb 2009, 15:48
i might be recording an EP soon so

you are to keep me informed on this.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: jhocking on 10 Feb 2009, 15:48
Are you people still doing this? shit
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Lines on 10 Feb 2009, 17:05
You don't matter to me anymore.

Sorry.

Ouch.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Barmymoo on 11 Feb 2009, 09:43
I had another look at the apartment (http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p93680hi) we were looking at the other day, and I saw it advertised on a lot of other sites too, some of which had almost double the price of $380 for that time of year.

Things to bear in mind:
Summer is going to be more expensive everywhere.
We're going on a bank holiday weekend. The world and his sister will be holidaying at the same time.
Hotels, even Jace's magical hotel, will probably frown on large parties squishing into one room and splitting the cost 12 ways.

I'm happy to go along with whatever is the cheapest option, but I don't like the idea of getting arrested for being disorderly. I don't want to be deported!
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: yelley on 11 Feb 2009, 10:12
bank holiday? what bank holiday?

edit: oh, i see. a UK bank holiday. i don't really think that will affect hotel prices in chicago any more than regular weekend rates being higher everywhere.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: mberan42 on 11 Feb 2009, 11:31
You don't matter to me anymore.

Sorry.

A BLOO BLOO BLA BLOOOOOOO

(oh well)

I'll second Dennis' comment about vetting them, public transport, etc.

Also, I know y'all were talking about renting an apartment/house/whatever. I didn't look at the website you linked, but vrbo.com is a great resource. Found a place for my buddy's bachelor party through there.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: calenlass on 13 Feb 2009, 01:24
Aw, man, nobody remembered that I was coming. My ego is wounded.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Masterbainter on 13 Feb 2009, 01:29
So this kind of interest me.  I've only been around a  month or so is that creepy for me to want to go to this?
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Jace on 13 Feb 2009, 03:52
So this kind of interest me.  I've only been around a  month or so is that creepy for me to want to go to this?

nah, your overall posting is enough for us to not want you there.

(unless you become a good poster, then, whatever I guess, it'd be cool to meet more people.)
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Liz on 13 Feb 2009, 06:20
Katie,

I have just been updating the list as people post so I don't miss anyone or make any wrong assumptions.

That is why you were "forgotten" so don't worry. We still love you!
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Boro_Bandito on 13 Feb 2009, 08:16
Just so you know, someone needs to arrange the rental of a karaoke machine.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Oli on 13 Feb 2009, 09:08
Man I am pretty sure we can scrounge together a laptop with karaoke software, some big speakers, a mic and a projector. We are the internet, after all.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: yelley on 13 Feb 2009, 09:49
Just so you know, someone needs to arrange the rental of a karaoke machine.

i tried last time! i really did! it is not my fault that mike's tv was broken!

acappella karaoke was fun though.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Lines on 13 Feb 2009, 11:22
That or we could karaoke in public. Scare the masses of Chicago and the like.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Alex C on 13 Feb 2009, 11:56
If we do karaoke, I will sulk.

And then get drunk.

And probably do karaoke.

But it will be sulky karaoke, like Cohen and Morrissey. Do you really want that on your heads?
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: dennis on 13 Feb 2009, 13:32
Man I am pretty sure we can scrounge together a laptop with karaoke software, some big speakers, a mic and a projector. We are the internet, after all.
I have Rock Band... could also get one of those karaoke games.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Boro_Bandito on 13 Feb 2009, 13:53
I'd go for a karaoke game, as long as it had good shit on it and doesn't have American Idol anywhere in its title. Also I was wondering whether or not to bring my xbox to this event, I know I am bringing my laptop this time, so if we absolutely have to do acapella at least we can look up the lyrics so it won't get fuzzy in the middle when they forget the words.

If we do it in public we should do a show choir style version of bohemian rhapsody.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: mberan42 on 13 Feb 2009, 14:04
Yeah I have Guitar Hero: World Tour too.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: KvP on 13 Feb 2009, 14:06
I'd suggest somebody bring along their 360 and Rock Band (maybe a local QCer has a setup?) but that might be a bit too much work.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: mberan42 on 13 Feb 2009, 14:07
Jesus H, man, READ THE POST ABOVE YOURS. ALSO, THE ONE TWO ABOVE THAT.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Boro_Bandito on 13 Feb 2009, 14:08
Hell, we could have a couple setups with all this going on. Or maybe a battle of the bands style tournament.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: KvP on 13 Feb 2009, 14:09
hmm, those posts were not there when I hit "reply". And it didn't alert me to those posts when I hit "post".

Odd. It just did the alert for Boro_Bandito, though.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Dunnoe on 13 Feb 2009, 20:49
ill come when i can legally drink with you guys. im still in hs.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Barmymoo on 15 Feb 2009, 09:50
I didn't just mean a UK bank holiday, I thought there was some kind of American holiday hoopla going on that weekend too. Is there not?
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Boro_Bandito on 15 Feb 2009, 10:22
not that i know of...
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Lines on 15 Feb 2009, 18:47
Nope, there isn't.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Darkbluerabbit on 15 Feb 2009, 20:41
Just out of curiosity, would anyone else be interested in going to the Art Institute on one of the days?  They're opening a new wing this summer for 20th-21st century art, and I am intrigued.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Ozymandias on 15 Feb 2009, 20:50
I'm a Maybe, bordering on probably.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: ruyi on 15 Feb 2009, 22:49
Just out of curiosity, would anyone else be interested in going to the Art Institute on one of the days?  They're opening a new wing this summer for 20th-21st century art, and I am intrigued.

I would! It is always worth a visit, imho.

Oh yes and I am probably a maybe, and I would probably be staying at either my dad or my aunt's home. Like I said in the previous thread, I mayyy be able to offer lodging to one or two people, but they probably have to be young-ish and female.

edit: probably prbably probalby
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Metope on 16 Feb 2009, 03:29
Oh yeah, count me in on visiting the Art Institute too! That's one of the things I've been meaning to ask people about, and I didn't even know about the new wing. This sounds really exciting!
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Lines on 16 Feb 2009, 06:09
I'll go to the Art Institue too! I did not get to go there the last time I was in Chicago and it made me kind of sad.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: sean on 16 Feb 2009, 08:59
Man I am so down for the art institute. So down.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Cernunnos on 16 Feb 2009, 09:49
That sounds like a good idea. Also, probably coming.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: october1983 on 16 Feb 2009, 11:23
guys what is wrong with you art is rubbish
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: öde on 16 Feb 2009, 11:40
ART IS BORING

KISSING IS AWESOME
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: E. Spaceman on 16 Feb 2009, 11:47
(http://www.wornby.co.uk/content/images/products/Worn-By/Fuck-Art-Lets-Dance-Men-s-T-Shirt-White/main/Fuck-Art-Lets-Dance-Men-s-T-Shirt-White-product.jpg)

(i am all for an art institute visit)
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Lines on 16 Feb 2009, 13:16
I want that shirt.

guys what is wrong with you art is rubbish

You're rubbish!

ART IS BORING

KISSING IS AWESOME

You're boring! But you have a very good point.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Boro_Bandito on 16 Feb 2009, 13:29
I'll go, but only because I like jumping on bandwagons.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Metope on 16 Feb 2009, 13:51
ART IS BORING

KISSING IS AWESOME

(http://i41.photobucket.com/albums/e263/blooper663/Art_Rodin_The_Kiss.jpg)

(http://i41.photobucket.com/albums/e263/blooper663/1656783b6386a141l.jpg)

(http://i41.photobucket.com/albums/e263/blooper663/doisneau_kiss.jpg)

(http://i41.photobucket.com/albums/e263/blooper663/The-Kiss-by-Picasso-fine-art-691990.jpg)

(http://i41.photobucket.com/albums/e263/blooper663/kiss.jpg)

KISSING IS ART
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Liz on 16 Feb 2009, 14:15
I fucking love Rodin.

ART.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Darkbluerabbit on 16 Feb 2009, 14:55
Who says you can't dance or kiss in the museum?  I imagine someone might say that, but they are not someone I would like to meet.

Missed this:
Really? Whereabouts?

Bumfuck nowhere about halfway between Madison and Milwaukee.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Boro_Bandito on 16 Feb 2009, 15:30
We should actually play music and skate around on rollerskates while in the museum.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Masterbainter on 16 Feb 2009, 16:13
So this kind of interest me.  I've only been around a  month or so is that creepy for me to want to go to this?

nah, your overall posting is enough for us to not want you there.


Sounds pretty obvious it'd be a waste of my time then.  Thanks for the reply though.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Boro_Bandito on 16 Feb 2009, 20:51
Oh come on, does no one get the movie reference?
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Liz on 16 Feb 2009, 21:20
Nope!
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Lines on 17 Feb 2009, 06:38
I can't remember if the guys in Batman were wearing skates or not. But there will be no knocking everyone out with gas and then painting over art while listening to Prince.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Liz on 18 Feb 2009, 05:24
Also- what are people's thoughts about going to the zoo?

I love the zoo. You should also.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Jace on 18 Feb 2009, 06:59
I'd go to the zoo. I fucking love the zoo.

(I have like 300 pictures from the last time I went to the zoo)
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: dennis on 18 Feb 2009, 07:11
There's also a Museum of Holography (http://www.centerstagechicago.com/other/holography.html), but I'm not entirely sure it's still open.

There's also a Museum of Surgical History, but it was kind of boring. Nothing like the freaky Museum of Medical History in London.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Edith on 18 Feb 2009, 08:21
Whatever we do, let's not go to the Field Museum. I'd rather wait 4 hours in the blazing sun to get into Shedd than to settle for Field again.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Boro_Bandito on 18 Feb 2009, 09:35
It's L.A. Story! With Steve Martin? greatest love story of all time, c'mon, I make a reference to this movie every couple of months.

Edit: Oh you are a sly temptress pagebreak.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: 20 jazz funk greats on 18 Feb 2009, 13:29
i might be coming to chicagocon!

(yes okay, i also said that about tronnocon, but this is much more likely because i will not be in school at the time and thus i will not need to worry about it conflicting with my exam schedule. also i feel like i've gotten to know you guys a bit better now, so there'd be less awkwardness.)
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Lines on 18 Feb 2009, 16:03
The Shedd was awesome and I'd definitely like to go again and I would love to go to the zoo, too! I do not want to go to the Museum of Science again, though. It wasn't as awesome as I originally thought it would be and I require lots of awesome from science museums, because it's science!
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Slick on 18 Feb 2009, 17:00
Anna I'm done with you breaking my heart.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: 20 jazz funk greats on 18 Feb 2009, 19:56
you're the one who broke my heart.
you and your false promises of baked goods.

Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Joseph on 18 Feb 2009, 20:06
Blah.  If the dates on this were like the Toronocon dates, I might be able to swing it, but no chance in July.  Fiddlesticks.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Slick on 18 Feb 2009, 20:23
I am actually in the same boat as you. I do not want to give up my weekend at the hillside festival the weekend before, and I do not think I can justify two back-to-back weekends of expense right before my last batch of final exams in my undergrad.

P.S.: I am not trying to whine here, just stating where I stand. The dates were chosen for some reason or other. I voiced my opinions and voted then, this is what we got.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Alex C on 18 Feb 2009, 21:35
And yet here you are, all whining like some whiner that whines all the time.



Whiner.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Lines on 19 Feb 2009, 06:04
I think the dates were chosen because later in August was not possible for some people. I don't remember why we didn't go earlier.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Liz on 19 Feb 2009, 07:53
We didn't go earlier because Jon was complaining about people not being able to save enough money after Bostoncon, but nobody really went to that. So there goes that reason.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: valley_parade on 19 Feb 2009, 10:13
What?

We totally went to Bostoncon.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Liz on 19 Feb 2009, 10:14
Yeah, but not as many as he was hoping for, I think.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: pen on 19 Feb 2009, 10:20
The coolest of the cool were there. 
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: valley_parade on 19 Feb 2009, 10:23
Except Gemm.  :-(
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: 0bsessions on 19 Feb 2009, 13:45
We didn't go earlier because Jon was complaining about people not being able to save enough money after Bostoncon, but nobody really went to that. So there goes that reason.

Actually, no, that doesn't have anything to do with it, but thanks for pulling up bullshit about me. Boston was planned around Chicagocon, not the other way around. Chicagocon was conceived as late summer because it would be warm and that was when most people would be able to attend between time off from school and the like. It was also determined that anything much earlier would not be enough time after Tronnocon for most people who went to that to adequately save up for Chicagocon.

In terms of nobody really went to that, you can kindly fuck yourself. We had a more than respectable turnout for something that was essentially thrown together as an afterthought to Chicagocon. I kindly ask you to not let your petty jealousy over not being as pretty as me cloud you to the facts.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Johnny C on 19 Feb 2009, 15:14
SORRY I HAVEN'T RESPONDED I'LL BE THERE
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Lines on 19 Feb 2009, 17:19
Liz is just jealous because she didn't get to meet Jimmy.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Darkbluerabbit on 19 Feb 2009, 19:22
Am I the only one who is a little skeeved out by zoos?  When I've been to zoos, the animals seem kind of listless and unkempt, as if they are too depressed to move or groom themselves.  Maybe I've only been to shitty zoos.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: yelley on 19 Feb 2009, 21:08
sounds like you have only been to shitty zoos.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: tania on 19 Feb 2009, 22:42
no polar bears though! they were doing some work on that one. it really bummed me out, the polar bear exhibit is by far the best one at the toronto zoo. it's a massive exclosure where these incredible enormous bears just run around and do dives and swim around all day. it's so rad.

on the sign outside where the exhibit would have been, there was a picture of a polar bear and someone had written in marker as a speech bubble coming out of the bear's mouth "harper is killing us!"... because he's against environmental policies, and the polar bears were gone... i thought it was pretty funny.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: E. Spaceman on 19 Feb 2009, 22:44
I also don't care much for Zoos but I figure it will be fun with a lot of my friends!
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Oli on 20 Feb 2009, 05:35
If it gets boring we can always feed the people with under 1000 posts to the lions.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Caspian on 20 Feb 2009, 05:37
I know it's going to bum you guys out, but seeing as I live in Australia I can't come.

It may be hard, but please try to have fun without me. Down a few extra slabs of beer in my presence.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Metope on 20 Feb 2009, 05:44
If it gets boring we can always feed the people with under 1000 posts to the lions.

Eeeee
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Metope on 20 Feb 2009, 05:45
Can I double post for a while please?
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Metope on 20 Feb 2009, 05:45
...Or triple post, I don't want to end up as lion food.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Jace on 20 Feb 2009, 05:49
If it gets boring we can always feed the people with under 1000 posts to the lions.

This is why I am posting so much more often. Lions are fucking big, Kung Fu does nothing against a lion.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Tyler on 21 Feb 2009, 10:13
I keep debating whether to bother visiting the Threadless store while in Chicago  :? :? :? :?
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Lines on 21 Feb 2009, 10:32
!!!
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: valley_parade on 21 Feb 2009, 10:35
You guys are all going to leave Chicon broke, shaking your heads, and cursing Threadless under your breath.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Lines on 21 Feb 2009, 13:19
Shane, I already own the unicorn sex shirt, so I can't do too much damage there. Oh ok, I will do damage there, but not enough for me to starve until my next paycheck.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: mooface on 21 Feb 2009, 18:55
i would totally be up for that.  i still need to buy that unicorn sex shirt :c
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: jhocking on 21 Feb 2009, 20:23
I keep debating whether to bother visiting the Threadless store while in Chicago  :? :? :? :?

If you do, you can also go a few blocks north to my favorite noodle store for lunch. mm mm joy's noodles

Also on that street is Casbah Cafe, but that's more of a dinner restaurant.


Also, re: the unicorn sex shirt, the store doesn't actually stock all the different shirts they have for sale on the website, only about a dozen of the latest releases. sorry you guys
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Reed on 21 Feb 2009, 21:05
You know that is exactly how I plan to leave Chicon, right

I really hope it involves being deported for sexually harassing a police officer!
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Lines on 21 Feb 2009, 22:14
Yeah, I got that shirt when it was part of the $5 sale and I'm not sure if they put it back into retirement or not. It's a rather old design.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Trollstormur on 25 Feb 2009, 11:52
IOMPORTANT:

Is anyone on the west coast thinking about Car-Pooling?

I live in Idaho so it would be good for a WA or OR group to pick me up.

PM me or inquire ITT for info.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: jhocking on 25 Feb 2009, 14:40
We totally went to Bostoncon.

Just got back from Boston. I thought about you guys briefly. Specifically, I thought about how glad I was not to have attended "Bostoncon."

I keep debating whether to bother visiting the Threadless store while in Chicago  :? :? :? :?
on that street is Casbah Cafe, but that's more of a dinner restaurant.

UPDATE: Apparently south of the Threadless store on Broadway (ie. the street it's on) is an amazing Turkish restaurant that I somehow never noticed. I know where I'm going for dinner next weekend.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: yelley on 25 Feb 2009, 21:06
IOMPORTANT:

Is anyone on the west coast thinking about Car-Pooling?

I live in Idaho so it would be good for a WA or OR group to pick me up.

PM me or inquire ITT for info.

are you serious? you know it is about a 3 day drive to chicago from the west coast, yes?
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Trollstormur on 25 Feb 2009, 23:19
IT CAN BE DONE
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: mberan42 on 26 Feb 2009, 13:23
Brief kayak.com search: BOI to MDW, with a short layover in Denver, leaving Boise on the 31st, leaving Chicago on the 3rd - $295 round trip.

Quick calculation, using 1,694 miles (according to maps.google.com) as the distance, a car averaging 20mpg with an 18 gallon tank, and $2.00 a gallon for gas: appx. $360 for gas round trip.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Allybee on 26 Feb 2009, 13:48
how glad I was not to have attended "Bostoncon."

well I hate you too
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: yelley on 26 Feb 2009, 14:52
Brief kayak.com search: BOI to MDW, with a short layover in Denver, leaving Boise on the 31st, leaving Chicago on the 3rd - $295 round trip.

Quick calculation, using 1,694 miles (according to maps.google.com) as the distance, a car averaging 20mpg with an 18 gallon tank, and $2.00 a gallon for gas: appx. $360 for gas round trip.

that is about the price of a plane ticket from sacramento to chicago, so for three people in a car (especially my car that gets 38 mpg) that price is totally worth it. except for the part where you drive 6 days for a 3 day meetup...
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: KvP on 26 Feb 2009, 16:05
Expedia has a $241 round trip from Denver, no stops, and that's a fairly middling price (you could probably shave off about $30 or $40 by taking a flight that leaves in the early AM)

I'm just waiting for particulars. If I come in on the 31st and leave on the 3rd or 4th will I be missing anything? Should I massage those numbers a bit?

I'm also setting aside a few hundred in case the housing situation implodes or I see a really nice pair of shoes I want to have.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Lines on 26 Feb 2009, 19:28
The last few posts have made me very happy that it only takes about 7 hours to get to Chicago by car. Bwahaha.

So, re Camp Edith - someone mentioned going to Cedar Point before Chicago. Does anyone know when? I do not want to cramp up Edith's place, but I do want to go to this. Because rollercoasters are Important Business.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: ackblom12 on 26 Feb 2009, 19:37
Kat and I only have 10 hours to drive thankfully. 4 more months!
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Liz on 26 Feb 2009, 19:44
Linds, all I know is we are planning on going on a Tuesday or Wednesday or something because it will be less busy, so probably the 28th or 29th. Eed is trying to find more meat life people to go with so we can get a group discount as well, so it might be up to you people that will be working to pick the exact date.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Lines on 26 Feb 2009, 19:49
I shouldn't have a problem dragging meat life people around either. I guess this is something to discuss later, but it crossed my mind. I must really want to ride a rollercoaster.

Then again, I almost always want to ride a rollercoaster.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: KvP on 27 Feb 2009, 00:35
meat life people as in people not associated with yon QC forums?
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: jodizzle on 27 Feb 2009, 02:03
I got an email from the travel agent saying i should have received the information they sent me...so I am assuming there is information waiting for me at home.  I'm still coming guys!  I have just been busy and finding time to do important things like passports and tickets has slipped away!
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: mberan42 on 27 Feb 2009, 14:34
So, re Camp Edith - someone mentioned going to Cedar Point before Chicago. Does anyone know when? I do not want to cramp up Edith's place, but I do want to go to this. Because rollercoasters are Important Business.

You're really going to do this?

(http://img527.imageshack.us/img527/8493/driving.png)

Good luck!
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: KvP on 27 Feb 2009, 16:28
I'm just waiting for particulars. If I come in on the 31st and leave on the 3rd or 4th will I be missing anything? Should I massage those numbers a bit?
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Liz on 27 Feb 2009, 16:39
Matt, we aren't going directly before Chicagocon. It will be a couple days before. And I imagine that once it is Chicagocon time Linds will just drive to Edith's and catch a ride from there to Chicago. I think.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Lines on 27 Feb 2009, 17:05
Yeah, I'm probably going to meet people AT Cedar Point and if I bring meat lifers, I will be going home and then going to Chicago. If I do not bring meat lifers, I will either go to Edith's or back home afterwards. But I am not driving from Cincinnati to Ft. Wayne then to Cedar Point and then to Chicago all in one day. That'd just be silly.

Though, if car space is an issue, it's really not that much out of the way to go to Ft. Wayne before Cedar Point. But depending on who drives out there and when we're going, I shouldn't have to do that.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Liz on 27 Feb 2009, 17:07
We'll have my car and Edith's car, plus she is roping some friends in, so you probably won't have to drive to Ft. Wayne for anyone. Hurray amusement parks!
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Lines on 27 Feb 2009, 17:09
Yeah, that's what I thought. Yay, saving gas! Yay rides and games and funnnnn!
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: mberan42 on 27 Feb 2009, 21:51
I didn't figure you guys would do it in one day; it just seems like a lot. I haven't been on a roller coaster in probably 10 years. Shockwave at Six Flags Great America always gave me a headache 'cause it bounced me around like whoa. American Eagle was always my favourite 'cause it was old and rickety and wooden and I always felt like the cars would fall off.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Darkbluerabbit on 27 Feb 2009, 21:59
You're right.  Shockwave is awful.  I remember my head being basically beaten against that guard thing, and my neck felt awful afterward.

It has been too long since I've been on a proper roller coaster.  They are really fun when they're not painful!
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Lines on 28 Feb 2009, 07:37
At Kings Island, I learned which one not to ride because I'd get migraines and it was the Beast, the older wooden one. But then again, very few people I know actually like that one, so it's ok! And I won't ride the Son of Beast because that thing broke down too many times when it first opened. Also wood + loops just seems silly.

Man, I wish it was summer now.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Alex C on 28 Feb 2009, 09:55
I have never been on a roller coaster.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Alex C on 28 Feb 2009, 09:55
Actually, I've never been to an amusement park.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Metope on 28 Feb 2009, 11:04
That wasn't Full House, that was Step by Step. Know your crappy sitcoms, sheesh.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: michaelicious on 28 Feb 2009, 11:15
Is it even an amusement park in the Step By Step song? I always thought it was just a fair.

Nevermind I was a dumb little kid.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: michaelicious on 28 Feb 2009, 11:21
Yeah, I realised my folly as soon as I saw that beast.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Metope on 28 Feb 2009, 11:25
Thanks Jens, if I get drunk tonight I know what song I'll end up singing loud and out of tune.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Lines on 28 Feb 2009, 12:05
I have never been on a roller coaster.
Actually, I've never been to an amusement park.

You had better be coming. We need to fix this.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Liz on 28 Feb 2009, 12:10
He is coming. Jodie and I are going to pick him up on our way to Camp Edith so I have someone to give me a break from driving. Also, another person to split the cost of gas. It is a win-win situation!
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: squawk on 28 Feb 2009, 15:40
The theme park in Step By Step was Magic Mountain! That's near my house! It's the best Six Flags park!

Except they added the beach, there's no goddamn beach next to Magic Mountain, what the hell

(It's not actually like NEAR MY HOUSE near my house but it's about an hour and a half away)
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Lines on 01 Mar 2009, 19:56
Ok, since we're talking about rooming in meebo right now, we were looking at different places to rent in Chicago, and this (http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p222256) place seems to be favored by Edith and I. There's parking, both bed and couch space, and the cost per night is pretty decent. Also, it's only 4 blocks away from public transit.

But since there are enough people to rent two places, Emilio also like this (http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p222010) place, but it is 5 miles away from a train.

Sound like a good idea to you guys?
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Liz on 01 Mar 2009, 20:13
Mili can stay in his mansion, I will stay with Edith in her rad choice.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: KvP on 01 Mar 2009, 20:15
Ideally we'd want a place a lot closer to transit for the second place. I'd assume we'd have a lot of people heading out at the same time for transit at any given point, which means we're going to be moving relatively slowly anyway.

So we should probably get a handle on exactly how many people are going to attend before we put money down on a second place. At max capacity a rented house will cost us $50 a head per night. If we overestimate the turnout that number will go up.

There are a lot of factors to take into account. Are there natives who will be willing to put up some people? How many people?

Looking on the list on the first page, if all "definitely"s and all "probably"s show up we'll have 28 people on hand. With the "maybe"s that's 28-36. A third mansion could be in order.

This is probably going to be a total clusterfuck up until the point that it's not.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Liz on 01 Mar 2009, 20:22
I think we should be safe with two places since we'll probably be packing extras into each house. I can provide two air mattresses so people don't have to sleep directly on the floor also, and perhaps a few others would be able to do the same.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Barmymoo on 02 Mar 2009, 09:32
Considering that we're getting married during these four days, I'll go wherever Emilio goes.

Seriously though (what? seriously? I am being serious!) I would prefer to go for a cheaper, less awesome option than an awesome, only-$100-bucks-per-night option. I'm happy to sleep on the floor of a shack if necessary, I can sleep anywhere, but if we can get somewhere nice that has plenty of floor space and isn't too expensive then that's what I'd choose. Also there aren't going to be any cars, are there, so five miles seems a long way to carry luggage.

Also, I have never been on a real rollercoaster. I have spent three hours on this ride (http://www.pbol.com/pechter/disney100/images//DisAladdin138.jpg) though, is this good preparation for Cedar Point?
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: supersheep on 02 Mar 2009, 10:05
If it's five miles from Navy Pier then it surely must be closer to public transport than that? Maybe someone should ring the owner and find out the address and see how close it really is if they're interested.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Liz on 02 Mar 2009, 10:58
We'll have one car, May. I'll be driving to Chicago from Edith's and going home from there, but once we're in Chicago I want to drive as little as possible. I don't really want to shuttle people around when we can use public transit to get almost everywhere.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: mberan42 on 02 Mar 2009, 13:19
The descriptions on that place are wrong. It's close to a train. If it's actually in the Gold Coast neighborhood, it's close to the red line, and quite possibly the brown line. Don't worry about being far away from public transport.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Professor Snuggles on 02 Mar 2009, 13:26
I'm not coming. I wanted to, but due to drug testing and not being able to leave the state of Colorado for a couple months, it isn't happening. It's probably for the best, though, since most of you suck.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Lines on 02 Mar 2009, 17:04
Yours will not be one of the next seven dicks we see in Chicago then. Oh wells.

Yeah, I'm driving too and I am not driving once we get to the place we're staying unless I have to. Mostly because I do not want to pay for parking. Also May, those places are around $50 a night, which is pretty damn cheap. That and having a lot of people staying in one place is why we're looking into places like this instead of a hotel. Also, less people will complain if we're up late and being rambunctious because we're all trashed.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Alex C on 02 Mar 2009, 18:13
And oh, will we ever be trashed. Well, at least I will be. The question is mostly whether it'll be trashed due to gin and tonics, whiskey sours or vodka martinis.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: BrittanyMarie on 02 Mar 2009, 18:30
G&T! G&T!
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Lines on 02 Mar 2009, 19:44
I think a massive gin and tonic was what did it in for Johnny last summer. And what possibly caused Tyler to run into several stationary objects, but I don't really remember. I had a lot of alcohol in my system, but I do remember exclaiming how big the gin and tonic that Julia made him was.

Yeah, gin and tonic is my vote.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Ozymandias on 02 Mar 2009, 19:48
Is gin and tonic a euphemism?
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Lines on 02 Mar 2009, 19:55
We were all very drunk. Except Liz. You should ask Liz.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Liz on 02 Mar 2009, 19:56
They all had a lot of booze. I cannot confirm whether the booze in question was gin, with or without the tonic. But I do not remember any sex occurring between Linds, Johnny, and/or Tyler, so I doubt there are euphemisms afoot.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Lines on 02 Mar 2009, 20:24
Actually Tyler and I had our way with Johnny that night. No one could hear his whimpers turn to sighs over the glorious sounds of Phil's snoring.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Liz on 02 Mar 2009, 20:25
Well I wasn't in the room for that one.

So.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: sean on 02 Mar 2009, 20:28
Shit does this mean linds and tyler need zebra cakes too?

liz just forward them yours.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Lines on 02 Mar 2009, 20:30
Huh.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: sean on 02 Mar 2009, 20:52
oh, right, inside joke.

sorry guys.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Liz on 02 Mar 2009, 21:04
Nooooo zebra cakes are mine. When am I going to get them, Sean?
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: sean on 02 Mar 2009, 21:33
Thats a really good question. Today that was on my agenda but then there was snow. Perhaps in Fargo you can function in snow, but you cannot function in snow in DC. You just don't.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Barmymoo on 04 Mar 2009, 14:20
Oh, I am totally in on the mansion idea. I just think we should go for a nice, cheap mansion rather than an expensive one with the dubious bonus of fishing. Then again I don't know anything about the value of dollars so I leave it all up to you and will believe you :-)
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: KickThatBathProf on 04 Mar 2009, 14:48
Oh hey guys, since I live three hours away, I could perhaps show up. (That means I would like to do this thing)
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Gilead on 04 Mar 2009, 18:27
GUYS GUESS WHO HAS TWO THUMBS AND IS COMING TO CHICAGOCON
THIS GUY.

I GUESS THAT DOESN'T WORK SO WELL IN TEXT.

EDIT: SHUT YOUR DIRTY MOUTH KVP I NEVER TYPOED.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: KvP on 04 Mar 2009, 18:29
Great, just let us know if you can make it to Chicagocon!
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Boro_Bandito on 04 Mar 2009, 21:43
They all had a lot of booze. I cannot confirm whether the booze in question was gin, with or without the tonic. But I do not remember any sex occurring between Linds, Johnny, and/or Tyler, so I doubt there are euphemisms afoot.

I believe I started out with a gin and tonic, moved to gin with a splash of tonic on the rocks, and finally just gin on the rocks. That plus the beer, fun fucking night.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Alex C on 04 Mar 2009, 21:49
Ah, yes, I am familiar with such progressions. Early on in the night, I'm always like "You know, hard liquor is OK, but sometimes I wonder why I drink so much. It's really not all that great," but then a few drinks later it segues into something more a li'l like this:

HEY GUYS, THIS STUFF IS PRETTY GREAT. I BET I CAN DRINK LIKE 8 MORE AND IT WILL BE AWESOME AND THERE WILL BE NO REGRETS WHATSOEVER.
   /
 :-D

And then suddenly it's morning. It's like time travel, but with more nausea.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Liz on 05 Mar 2009, 11:27
haha

Well this year I will probably be drinking with you guys, so I don't know who you will get to escort your drunken asses back to wherever we are staying.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Barmymoo on 05 Mar 2009, 12:45
Me! I am boringly sober (actually I am not boring I am just sober :-))
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Lines on 05 Mar 2009, 17:48
Sober isn't boring, it just means you get to take not blurry pictures and be the navigator. But considering that I was pretty much sober by the time we got back to the hostel, I don't think the latter would be an issue. (Also the fact, I pretty much have an internal compass.) But blurry pictures are no fun, so bring a camera.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: KvP on 05 Mar 2009, 18:00
I'll probably be sober as well. I don't really like hard alcohol, and my tastes in beer run towards the wheat-y.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Jace on 06 Mar 2009, 01:43
I'll probably be responsible since I will only be 19 so I won't drink.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Alex C on 06 Mar 2009, 08:28
Eh, I'm sure we'll be fine regardless. I mean, it's Chicago; there will be cabs. Further, I would imagine that if anyone gets truly trashed it won't be while out in the wild; it's more likely that a few people will do some light to moderate drinking while out and about followed by a few drinks at wherever they're staying. Or, at least, that's the only way I could possibly imagine myself being drunk enough to benefit from a watchful eye.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Lines on 07 Mar 2009, 07:41
Yeah, a few people have talked about it Sam.

Guys, we do not walk up and down the streets chugging alcohol. The only people who were intoxicated in public were the ones who had to take public transport from Mike's back to the hostel. The rest of the drinking was pretty much done at the hostel and Mike's the one night. Also, not everyone was drunk. There were several people who were either sober or just hadn't had much to drink. We are not silly drunkards. Well, not all the time anyways.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: valley_parade on 07 Mar 2009, 07:44
buuuut there's probably going to be a meetup somewhere next year right? i think jordan and phil said something about wanting to have a sxsw meetup.

Yeah, I was in on that one.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Lise on 07 Mar 2009, 16:50
I'd love to get in on this, guys! (That is, if I save up the appropriate funds from working my slave job). I know I'm kind of on and off the forums/gabbly, but I joined the Sanfranciscobostoncon (or however it's spelled, haha) group on facebook awhile ago and intend to show at some point!

If anyone could, please add me to the maybe list :wink:. I wouldn't want to miss out on the QC Webcest Gathering, 2009 (especially now that I'm legally able to drink!).
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Lines on 07 Mar 2009, 17:40
We did that already! You should just age about 5 years by next time!
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Liz on 07 Mar 2009, 19:50
Jens someone will probably buy you alcohol as long as you promise to stay in the house and hide of the po po come around.

Just sayin'.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: BrittanyMarie on 07 Mar 2009, 23:47
I would go to SXSWcon definitely. I was supposed to go this year but then Eric couldn't get it off work and then we stopped being friends at all anyway.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Johnny C on 08 Mar 2009, 01:59
As far as a second apartment goes, looking on the first page of that website with BEDROOMS: MOST TO LEAST, we get this (http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p207810), this (which seems close to the other one? not sure.) (http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p319203) and this (http://www.homeaway.com/vacation-rental/p183649), which are all in the same price range too. Is there anything wrong with those places?
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Liz on 08 Mar 2009, 09:33
The only problem I see with the second one is that it charges separately to rent out each floor of the house, so you don't get the whole thing for the $495 price. The first and third ones look good, though.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: nobo on 08 Mar 2009, 12:11
The first one is a bit north of the city, and the third one is a bit south. I would recommend the second one in wrigleyville because its really close the belmont/clark area as well as boys town. Belmont and Clark has all sorts of cool head shops, bars, thrift stores, music venues, etc. Based on the general personality of these message boards I would expect most of you to have a good time there.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Lines on 08 Mar 2009, 14:02
I just know I'm staying in the one with the garage and laundry. Those are good things to have. Also, out of those three, we were wondering when we did the last search if we'd be able to get more people in than what the place says it sleeps. Like place 2 says it sleeps 8, but I'm sure more than 8 people could be ok in there. Problem is we don't know if you can have more than 8, so we were looking at places that slept 10-12. But then again, this isn't a hotel and I'm sure you could sneak people in.

Place 1 is also in Evanston, which will be the farthest away from downtown out of the 3.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Liz on 08 Mar 2009, 17:16
House #2 is also not available when we need it, so it is out of the question entirely.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Johnny C on 09 Mar 2009, 00:48
#1 is close to a downtown train which was my main reason for suggesting it.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: nobo on 09 Mar 2009, 16:14
all trains in chicago go downtown, except for yellow line
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: jhocking on 10 Mar 2009, 20:47
Well yes most trains go downtown (not every train on the purple line goes downtown, which is relevant because you guys are looking at one place in Evanston,) but not everywhere is near a train.

Also, I would recommend against the place in Wrigleyville because of the fucking Cubs fans.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Liz on 10 Mar 2009, 21:17
Fine, I'll just come crash on your couch again, assuming you will still be in the city at that point in time.

Don't run away from us, Joe. You know you want it.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: KvP on 10 Mar 2009, 21:20
I think I'll be staying with Joe as well.

Be aware, Joe, that I sleep in the nude.

I also dine in the nude.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Lines on 10 Mar 2009, 21:21
Joe'scouchcon '09

Be there or be square.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Liz on 10 Mar 2009, 21:45
Gosh, Joe'scouchcon was sooo last year, I totally already did that.

Y'alls are just jumping on the bandwagon.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Vendetagainst on 11 Mar 2009, 17:10
Also, I would recommend against the place in Wrigleyville because of the fucking Cubs fans.

I love the look on everyone's faces.
(http://i13.tinypic.com/2s9afpw.jpg)
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: jodizzle on 12 Mar 2009, 05:00
So guys, today I applied for the perfect job ever.  It is a job at the newspaper here working in advertising and with graphic designers and etc and although I wont get it (because I want it very badly, and that is how these things work) but I thought I should mention that if i DO happen to get it by some miracle then I won't be coming to Chicagocon. Because there is no way in hell I am giving up the chance of a publishing job in toowoomba to hang out with the internets.

(they are a very very very very rare thing)


(Don't worry, I won't get it)
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Skibas_clavicle on 12 Mar 2009, 06:04
if i go i will be irresponsible and get 2 throwed

but i'm 95% sure i'm not going. and tom and tyler and julia all might come to austin at various times within the next year, so i can deal.

Plus, you know I'm way more fun than most of these people combined. I probably won't go this year, actually, 'cause I'm planning a travel adventure for the end of the summer.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Jace on 12 Mar 2009, 06:08
I'm way more fun than most of these people combined.

I'd be both sad and angry if this weren't true.
It is so true.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Liz on 12 Mar 2009, 07:39
So guys, today I applied for the perfect job ever.  It is a job at the newspaper here working in advertising and with graphic designers and etc and although I wont get it (because I want it very badly, and that is how these things work) but I thought I should mention that if i DO happen to get it by some miracle then I won't be coming to Chicagocon. Because there is no way in hell I am giving up the chance of a publishing job in toowoomba to hang out with the internets.

(they are a very very very very rare thing)


(Don't worry, I won't get it)

eeeeeeeeee. Is it terrible to say that I hope you don't get it?

(I am terrible)
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Lines on 12 Mar 2009, 08:17
Though I really want to meet you, that's awesome and I hope you get it!

(See, Liz is really terrible.)

(I am just as terrible.)

(Because we're really the same person.)
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Metope on 12 Mar 2009, 08:40
Jumping the terrible person bandwagon.

Jodie noooooooo!
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: KvP on 12 Mar 2009, 18:19
Jodie's not that great anyway

(you should totally come Jodie)
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: jodizzle on 12 Mar 2009, 21:11
dont worry guys!  I am bad at getting jobs!
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: jhocking on 12 Mar 2009, 21:24
Fine, I'll just come crash on your couch again

I said I recommend against staying right next to Wrigley Field.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Ozymandias on 12 Mar 2009, 21:27
dont worry guys!  I am bad at getting jobs!

I hear she's awful at giving them too.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: jodizzle on 12 Mar 2009, 22:58
Oh ouch Jordan.  You are such a bully.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Oli on 13 Mar 2009, 08:59
Hey jodie it is sad that you might not be coming but I can keep one set of fingers crossed for you to get the job and the other set crossed for you to come to Chicago. I haven't spoke to you in a while which is also a sad thing, but tonight I am going to a Lux Interior tribute night at a club in Glasgow and I am thinking 'oh hey Jodie will be mad jealous' but I've not had a chance to say that because you're never online when I am apparently, so I'm posting it here.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Slick on 13 Mar 2009, 16:20
So I am pretty much definitely not coming to this guys. In case anyone cared.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Lines on 13 Mar 2009, 17:15
So I am pretty much definitely not coming to this guys. In case anyone cared.

Saaaaaaaaaad!
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Avec on 14 Mar 2009, 11:38
Sounds rather creepy, as I'm a little younger than most of you.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Joseph on 14 Mar 2009, 15:02
So the job I was hoping to have this summer fell through, which means I may be able to make it to this!  I'm looking into it anyhow.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Liz on 14 Mar 2009, 22:45
Hey guys I am in CHICAGO where the fuck are you?

Oh wait, I think I am maybe a few months ahead of schedule. Shit.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: jodizzle on 16 Mar 2009, 00:36
Hey jodie it is sad that you might not be coming but I can keep one set of fingers crossed for you to get the job and the other set crossed for you to come to Chicago. I haven't spoke to you in a while which is also a sad thing, but tonight I am going to a Lux Interior tribute night at a club in Glasgow and I am thinking 'oh hey Jodie will be mad jealous' but I've not had a chance to say that because you're never online when I am apparently, so I'm posting it here.

Awww Oli, I am mad jealous!  (I have not really been home at all much lately!  Even my housemate misses me).  My brother went to a Lux Interior tribute night too, he said it was way rad!  I misss you Olllliiiiii.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Patrick on 16 Mar 2009, 02:20
I may or may not go. If I go, I will probably bring The Lady because if I don't she will yell at me for leaving her again. But I am leaning towards "not going". If I win this Albanian Idol thing I'll use the prize money to fund the trip (and help finance a new amp). That is very unlikely, though.

tl;dr I am afraid I will have to go down as a "hell no"
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: calenlass on 18 Mar 2009, 23:02
Sam if you meant a SXSW 2010 hangouts I would be all up ons.


Speaking of which, how was it?
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Slick on 19 Mar 2009, 16:59
Sam. Stop saying 'throwed'. Please.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: sean on 19 Mar 2009, 18:21
if kids wanted to do sxsw i would probably be down.

then again i may just get lazy and not feel like booking passage and paying (basically why i haven't done shit for chicago yet).
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Lines on 19 Mar 2009, 18:29
LAZY.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Allybee on 19 Mar 2009, 23:12
note about sxsw: a lot of the best shows are 21+. be ware.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: mberan42 on 20 Mar 2009, 14:15
what the hell people this is chicagocon not sxswcon. GET YOUR OWN DAMN THREAD.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Lines on 20 Mar 2009, 19:13
Throwed is a silly word. And not silly as in funny, silly as in nonsensical and rather dumb. Also it's far to close to "throw up" for it to be appealing.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: KvP on 21 Mar 2009, 12:04
God I love cheap hip hop album covers. They all come from the exact same template.

Additionally I should be finalizing my travel plans on the morrow. 31st to 5th sounds good, right?
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Lines on 21 Mar 2009, 12:30
If you were planning on staying an extra 2 days, then yes. (I cna't remember if you said you were planning on doing that or not.)
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: KvP on 21 Mar 2009, 12:50
That's up in the air. What days would I stay if I were just conning?
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Lines on 21 Mar 2009, 13:04
31st - 3rd are the planned days.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: jhocking on 23 Mar 2009, 19:43
be ware.

It's not two separate words.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Barmymoo on 29 Mar 2009, 07:22
Oh rly? (http://forums.questionablecontent.net/index.php/topic,19479.0.html)

Last week I was driving down to London and as we passed Birmingham airport I got all excited and had to text Oli to share that excitement (sorry for waking you at 9.30 on a Sunday hangover morning Oli!)

GUYS it is less than four months until I go to AMURKA.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Edith on 01 Apr 2009, 09:02
I got fired today.

It looks like I'm going to have to pull out of ChicagoCon and Camp Eed.

Anybody in the upper midwest able to host 2 brits, 2 norwegians, and an aussie for 2 weeks in July/Aug?

Sorry, I'm a little in shock right now.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: 0bsessions on 01 Apr 2009, 09:06
I take at least a bit of offense with that joke, Edith. The biggest reason I'm not going to this is because I actually DID lose my job, remember?
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: 0bsessions on 01 Apr 2009, 09:11
I at least had Darryl and Shane fooled.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Edith on 01 Apr 2009, 09:53
Yeah, you fooled me, too.

Also, you had already decided not to go to Chicago when you lost your job, so that's a silly argument.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: ackblom12 on 01 Apr 2009, 14:47
Goddamn airline prices have dropped. Me and Kat should be able to make for $132 round trip with no layovers after taxes and fees.

Fuck driving.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: jodizzle on 07 Apr 2009, 01:44
I put in my passport things today!  They said I should have it in 10 days!  Now I am going to email the fligth centre about that information they never sent em.  Check it out guys, I am getting organised!
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Alex C on 07 Apr 2009, 09:24
Guys, I have to downgrade myself to a "Maybe." I lost my job a bit ago, and it's taking longer to fix that than previously anticipated, plus my brother is now comitted to moving to another city, which is kinda crappy since we're splitting a place I couldn't afford on my own. As it stands now I could easily see myself having to using a big chunk of Chicagocon money just to live somewhere I can keep my dogs. Provided I can get a decent job, the housing downturn should actually work in my favor. Anyway, I'll make a decision for sure by the end of the month for simplicity's sake. You guys are rad, but I'm not planning on giving away my dogs.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Liz on 07 Apr 2009, 12:24
Noooo I need you. I don't want to drive all the way to Indiana by myself. Fingers crossed that things work out for you!
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: ackblom12 on 07 Apr 2009, 13:12
Best of luck Alex!

*fingers crossed*
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Barmymoo on 08 Apr 2009, 11:13
Jeez Edith even though I knew it wasn't true that still made my heart stop for a moment!

GUYS GUYS GUYS THREE AND A HALF MONTHS!
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Jace on 08 Apr 2009, 12:29
Holy shit, this loan stuff is really coming through for me and I'm gonna have enough money to go and oh my god I'm fucking excited.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Gilead on 09 Apr 2009, 23:26
Hey so what is the deal with the houses. Have we picked one yet?
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: mberan42 on 10 Apr 2009, 22:11
yeah i bought mine like 2 years ago gee man get with the times now is the best time to buy cause of the recession sheesh haven't you been reading the news?
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Emaline on 10 Apr 2009, 22:35
I figured this was the best place to post this.

I am for sure going to Pitchfork this year(motherfucking The Flaming Lips and Tortoise!!!). I will be with my friend Davis who is another forumite(who I actually met via this board). As some of you know, its a music festival held in Chicago every year. I believe its the 17th-19th.

Anyone is welcome to join up with us or hang out with us. As of right now, I'm not 100% sure where we are staying but I will keep you updated, if anyone is interested. 
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: jodizzle on 23 Apr 2009, 22:27
Hey guys!  This whole Chicago dealio is getting quite close!  Have we sorted accomodationy things and whatnot yet?  My flight booking lady gets back from her honeymoon in a few days, then I will spend a crapload of money and cry a little everytime I see my bank balance.

WOO
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: ackblom12 on 23 Apr 2009, 22:33
Edith is looking into renting a condo so she's the best bet at finding out about housing arrangements. I'm assuming she'll be posting them in here once it's finally settled.

only like, 13 more goddamn weeks. Yesssssss.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: ruyi on 23 Apr 2009, 22:36
Oh hm, I should probably get plane tickets.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: KvP on 24 Apr 2009, 16:14
Me too. But I've been waiting on some info. I'd like to know who's going to be sticking around past the official endpoint of the con. Reason I'm asking is that I may be meeting a friend in Chicago post-con, but her actually being there is not a done deal and won't be until a few weeks prior to the con. So what I'd like to do is get tickets that will have me in Chicago past the con, and then if my friend doesn't show up (even if she does, hopefully) I can stick around with a couple of other holdovers.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Alex C on 24 Apr 2009, 16:24
So, yeah, I officially won't be going. It sucks.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Lines on 24 Apr 2009, 20:07
:c
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: mberan42 on 24 Apr 2009, 21:42
 :x :x :x :x :x :x :x :x :x :x :x :x :x :x :x
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Liz on 24 Apr 2009, 21:44
It's okay, Tommy's not that special.

But I will be there!
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: mberan42 on 24 Apr 2009, 21:46
man i have been wanting to meet tommy for the past 3ish years.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: calenlass on 24 Apr 2009, 23:50
what
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: calenlass on 25 Apr 2009, 00:10
Well, shit. Oli, it looks like your American Experience is largely up to me now. Maiada was going to be my partner in crime, but I think I can handle the pressure.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: KvP on 25 Apr 2009, 00:59
On the bright side, with Tommy opting out, all the people who were hesitant about attending due to fear of STIs now have nothing to complain about.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Jace on 25 Apr 2009, 13:49
Alright doggs, how about this place its a Westin (http://www.starwoodhotels.com/westin/property/overview/index.html?propertyID=1030)?
$89 a night at "four" people to a room. (we can fit more than 4)
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: pen on 25 Apr 2009, 15:43
Hotels like the Westin usually have maximums that they allow in a room. 
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Jace on 25 Apr 2009, 16:25
I'm gonna be honest here, we have no idea how many people are in the room (read: We don't really care as long as the room is paid for). The maximum is four, but how are they going to know that we have more than four sleeping in a room. They really don't care though, trust me.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Johnny C on 25 Apr 2009, 16:49
Yeah I'm not going to this.

Have fun everyone.

:(
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Liz on 26 Apr 2009, 08:48
Eeeeeeeeed how is the condo doing? Are things working out?

Oh, Johnny, Tommy told me that as long as you and I are there it will still be awesome so I guess you really don't have to worry about missing out on anything.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: valley_parade on 26 Apr 2009, 08:49
Yeah I'm not going to this.

Have fun everyone.

Fuck, you guys weren't all bummed when I said that.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Barmymoo on 26 Apr 2009, 09:43
OK we need some definitive numbers.

The Attendance List was last updated on the 25th so it shouldn't be that out of date. If you are not in the correct category, or not on there at all, please let someone know. The best thing might be to PM Liz so that she doesn't miss anything.

A new list will begin now: The Accommodation List.

If you are definitely without a doubt up for staying in a group in Chicago and want to pay an equal share of whatever we decide to book, please say so.
If you have alternative requirements, please also say that.
If you have a specific request or a great idea, please say that.


Edith has booked this house (http://www.elitechicagorentals.com/listings/details/45) for Friday, 31st July to Tuesday, 4th August. That is four nights, and anyone who wishes to be in on this deal would be asked to pay an equal share of the cost regardless of how long they stay there.

A definitive list of who is staying in the House and who is not will be posted to the first page for ease of reference.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Barmymoo on 26 Apr 2009, 10:27
Posting to bump the thread to the top, since it seems modifying a post doesn't do that.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: sean on 26 Apr 2009, 12:28
yeah you should probably move me to the no list. i really have no intention to pay for a big trip to chicago this year.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: KvP on 26 Apr 2009, 13:15
I'm all for staying in a group, in the place that Eed chose.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Liz on 26 Apr 2009, 13:19
Hey John wanna cuddle? I hear the king size bed is up for grabs, apparently absolutely nobody in meebo wants it. At all.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: october1983 on 26 Apr 2009, 14:28
I would be up for stay there with you guys, but if there are more people wanting to stay there than can reasonably fit then I will be the first to opt out on account of having elsewhere I can stay!
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Liz on 26 Apr 2009, 15:06
Noooooo we need you to be there so that its cheaper for everyone. Besides, that's where the party will be at.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Lines on 26 Apr 2009, 17:33
Dicky, come to the house. All the cool kids will be staying in the house.

I will be staying in the house. Who wants cuddles?

Also, Eed, how do you want those of us staying in the room to pay? I'm going to start tithing for this, so if you want money in advance, I can send you stuff over paypal or something.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Tyler on 27 Apr 2009, 15:44
I am going to change status to MAYBE here. Finances and the removal of Tommy, Julia, Tania, Mai, Sam shall cog things up slightly.

Also, Europe: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/30431245/ (http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/30431245/)
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Dollface on 27 Apr 2009, 15:57
um guys can i hang out with you if i come there... please
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: ruyi on 27 Apr 2009, 16:00
I'm not going to be staying in the house if I come.

Other folks should probably start responding too!
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: jodizzle on 27 Apr 2009, 17:43
Hey guys, I need a place in the rad house please!  Linds, hugs, you and me yo.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Liz on 27 Apr 2009, 19:37
um guys can i hang out with you if i come there... please

Yes. Please. We need you.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Boro_Bandito on 27 Apr 2009, 19:57
I don't know exactly where I'll be staying yet, but if I do stay with the main group it'll probably be through the use of a sleeping bag. Luckily I'm completely saved up for my goal of 500 bucks to spend in Paris, so this next paycheck will be the first one working directly towards Chicago.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Liz on 27 Apr 2009, 20:07
There will be a lot of beds in this place, plus I am bringing two air mattresses. You can crash at the party house!
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Lines on 27 Apr 2009, 20:14
I guess the only good thing about Tyler being a maybe is now he won't share a room with Phil and be tempted to kill him.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Liz on 27 Apr 2009, 20:15
Oh fuck if I have to share a room with Phil I will be tempted to kill him.

Phil gets his own room.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Johnny C on 27 Apr 2009, 20:27
Do I have a room at this house? what is the dang ding old deal
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Liz on 27 Apr 2009, 20:35
Johnny, I am pretty sure the plan is to get everyone into the house. The more people we have, the cheaper it is for everyone, and there is definitely enough space to go around.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: ackblom12 on 27 Apr 2009, 22:54
Oh shit, for some reason I thought you were a no go Phil. Glad to hear I was wrong!
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Jace on 28 Apr 2009, 00:37
I would really rather we did the house option, because I don't think I'll be working at the hotel come July and I don't know what they'll do if I make reservations and then get fired/quit.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: ruyi on 28 Apr 2009, 00:38
Edith has already booked a house - see Barmymoo's post. The question is if individual attendees are opting in or out.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: KvP on 28 Apr 2009, 00:42
I am in like something that is in you.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Jace on 28 Apr 2009, 01:07
Edith has already booked a house - see Barmymoo's post. The question is if individual attendees are opting in or out.

I think it's pretty clear that I have no idea how to understand things written in an english accent.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Oli on 28 Apr 2009, 02:38
Okay I am definitely staying in this house dealy (if you'll have me!) and I've already told Edith I can get her money for it from the 7th of May so it'd be nice to work out how much it will be per person! At the moment it is sitting at 13 people which is $180, but I think there is probably enough interest to get it a bit lower. Exciting!
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Dollface on 28 Apr 2009, 05:49
I just looked at plane ticket prices

over 2500e and up

god damn it i guess i have to get me sugar momma/daddy
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Zingoleb on 29 Apr 2009, 00:19
Holy bloody string of assorted curses

Why did I not see this thread sooner!?!

I make plansssss

Maybe?
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Jace on 29 Apr 2009, 00:26
I hate to be rude, but, who are you Zingoleb? I see that you have a lot more music and QC discussion posts than Infinite Pony Debates posts. Most of the people that have expressed interest in attending this are people who hang out here rolling in the blog threads, and meebling in the meebo.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Zingoleb on 29 Apr 2009, 01:34
Who I am is a question that gets asked a lot, usually to my face.

The name is [redacted], and I answer to both names. I'm usually more of a lurker rather than a pipe-up-about-things-I-don't-know sort of person. Music is just what I know, eh?

And I've never meebled. Or been meebled. Sorry.

Edit: And if I really should not go, I should probably be told this. I get awesome ideas in my head that are not always realistic and I am all "YES THIS IS AWESOME SO I WILL DO THIS". I'd like to think that's I'm LoL RaNdOm and FuN and CrAZy but I think I'm just your average 18-year-old in that respect. Sigh.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Jace on 29 Apr 2009, 02:30
I'm LoL RaNdOm and FuN and CrAZy

I really hope you're being ironic, otherwise you might get stabbed. This isn't the best neighborhood, see. We have people who carry shivs, for a single purpose, shivving people who say that.

I'm just saying that this is a meeting of people who are pretty much on a first name (not a screen name) basis with other forumites. We know where each other live, what they do for a job, most of us have posted pictures of ourselves here (and are friends on facebook). Its less like a convention, more like a bunch of friends (and then me also) going to hang out for a weekend. I'm not saying that you can't or shouldn't go. But we don't really know you and we might ignore you/not even know who you are.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Zingoleb on 29 Apr 2009, 02:43
That statement was dripping irony. I mopped the irony up a bit, though, as it was causing a bit of a mess.

I see your point and probably won't go. I just like the idea of getting out and doing something like this, as generally 'real' conventions are far too fucking large for socially-inept me to really handle.

I'm a pendulum when it comes to these sorts of things. I'll swing crazily positive (DUDE I should go to this it would be awesome I can drive to Chicago I'll sleep in the car I can meet people who I know a bit online) and then the other way (I'm not sure, these seems a bit more personal, they don't know me, it'll be awkward) and settle somewhere in the middle.

I'm fairly used to being ignored and being unknown - it's part of my mysterious charm! Or pure shyness. Either one of those will work.

It's 6 AM and I'm feeling ranty, so excuse my post. I hope it's coherent.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: est on 29 Apr 2009, 03:21
I think that the point is that the name of the thread is probably misleading.  It isn't a QC Forum meetup, it is a meetup for a bunch of people here who have known each other for up to about 5 years now, plus some assorted other people we know.  For all intents and purposes the QC Forum and this section are relatively disparate entities.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Barmymoo on 29 Apr 2009, 03:50
I shall use my 1000th post to say the following, so be honoured (I've been saving it up for three days now).

If you live close enough to Chicago that you could drive over without too much trouble and fuss, then why not lurk around this bit of the fora for a while and post if you feel like it, and see if over the next three months you make some good friends? If it's going to be fairly simple for you to just drive on over for a few days then I see no reason (barring more use of 1337 speek) why you couldn't see if you fit in around here and then come along for a bit if it seems like a good idea nearer the time.

However, if it'd be a major undertaking that would require lots of planning then it might be better if you wait a while until there's another one, which I'm sure there will be. If over the next few months you make friends round here and post a bit in this section of the forum then no one will being physically barring you from meeting up. We were all new once!

Also, guys! One more person confirming for definite that they are housing it up and we've hit our minimum of 15! Johnny C if you are reading this please indicate whether you are indeed coming or if you were merely enquiring about the possibility of coming!
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: McTaggart on 29 Apr 2009, 07:32
Yeah, we've got the van and the duct tape already.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Slick on 29 Apr 2009, 08:08
It isn't a QC Forum meetup, it is a meetup for a bunch of people here who have known each other for up to about 5 years now, plus some assorted other people we know.
Yeah, nearly half the people on the definite list aren't really regular posters here anymore.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Boro_Bandito on 29 Apr 2009, 12:08
Well guys, life just hit me in the face and I've quit my job. This of course throws all plans that I may or may not make into complete and utter disarray, and so for now I may not actually be going.

In reality in addition to this I have a lot of things that have just sort of built on and are working towards my life swiftly becoming a living hell, and I might need to sort out a lot before I can continue with my life in any "normal" respect. You are pretty cool guys and I'll miss you but I think I may not be able to hang around for a while, maybe sometime in the future.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Johnny C on 29 Apr 2009, 12:52
Oh I'm definitely coming to this

phil that sucks so much
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: ackblom12 on 29 Apr 2009, 13:03
Ah shit, I'm sorry to hear Phil. Let us know how things go man.
Title: Re: Forum Meetup '09- Chicagocon
Post by: Liz on 29 Apr 2009, 13:09
Zingoleb (or whatever it is), I say you just need to post more so we can get to know you better. You seem okay! I cannot recall ever going "OMG what is that guy doing just stop" in response to a post of yours. Like May said, if you are close enough to Chicago to just pop on in, go for it. At the last meetup in Toronto, Mr. Ackblom over there brought along his wife that none of us really knew at all, and things turned out quite well. So no worries, mate!

EDIT: Thread title changed, happy now?
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: calenlass on 29 Apr 2009, 13:18
I guess I am in on this house shindig. Somebody PM me deets, because I have to go to work and cannot meebo.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: ackblom12 on 29 Apr 2009, 13:18
She brought tales of Melon Fucking.

Also, me and Kat have 2 months to make Melon Fucker shirt design. I may need help with this design, but alumni would get one!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Liz on 29 Apr 2009, 13:22
Yessssss. (I am not good at design-y things but I am looking forward to this shirt.)
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Tyler on 29 Apr 2009, 13:24
I am tempted to make a shirt that just says "Melon"
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Sox on 29 Apr 2009, 13:55
I'd be somewhat grateful if you mailed that t-shirt to me. I had a rather unfortunate incident with some bleach earlier which has reduced me to one hoody, three t-shirts and two pairs of jeans. As I grow older, I seem to be making more and more mistakes that I don't seem to learn from. I've been told on numerous occasions throughout my life that the opposite is supposed to happen.
I can't decide whether adults have been consistently lying to me my entire life or if I am just so accident prone that it hasn't been my day for a couple of years now.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Slick on 29 Apr 2009, 14:02
I will make a shirt saying "fucker."
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: ackblom12 on 29 Apr 2009, 14:26
Personally I think it must involve a High five.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: KvP on 29 Apr 2009, 14:36
I'll just have a shirt that says ">:C"

It will be lavender with white lettering.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Zingoleb on 29 Apr 2009, 18:29
I'm not quoting the several posts directed at me. I just read them and go 'oh that makes sense and I'll reply to it vaguely instead of it directly'.

As for the issue of me and my posting...I'd like to think of myself as someone you would like. This place seems both smart and fucked up enough to tolerate me. As far as the 1337 issue goes...no. I don't talk like that unless in an ironic fashion, though the occasional 'lolwut' pops out of me. I am not ashamed of this. I don't know shame. Shame won't return my phone calls.

I think that I will be posting here more often, rather than lurking and clicking the occasional thread as you are a good people and I would like to be counted amongst you.

I live in Western New York, to be entirely honest, so the driving factor...is actually not that bad. I was on my first road trip before I learned to use a toilet. Mapquest puts it at under 10 hours of driving, so that shouldn't be a problem, to be honest. The most planning that would be required would be requesting a few days off of work and making sure we have a second car by then (my Cadillac's motor just blew up on me last week, damn).

And also thanks for explaining me my ignorance politely. It makes me feel like less of a jerk.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Lines on 29 Apr 2009, 20:35
Oh man, melon fucking. Maybe I'll make one with a picture of a watermelon with a hole in it that says, "Oh yes, I went there." But a boy should wear it. Or make one with directions on how to go about fucking a melon.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Eris on 29 Apr 2009, 21:00
I still think that this (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v663/Lapuz/random/meloncockie.jpg) picture should be used on the melon fucker t-shirts, even though it is the wrong deal.

Maybe I just want to see someone wearing that on a t-shirt.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Lines on 29 Apr 2009, 21:26
Meebo has decided the last night is prom night.

Chicagocon Prom: Be there.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: KvP on 29 Apr 2009, 23:54
I still think that this (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v663/Lapuz/random/meloncockie.jpg) picture should be used on the melon fucker t-shirts, even though it is the wrong deal.

Maybe I just want to see someone wearing that on a t-shirt.
That is awesome and I don't even know why. You've made my night.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: calenlass on 30 Apr 2009, 00:35
(http://p3.xanga.com/38/a0/38a0d7a5ea02ba5633291046eefac26817321936.jpg)


?
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Barmymoo on 30 Apr 2009, 01:33
Chicagocon prom? I don't have a dress! Some shopping is required! Who is good at hair? I AM SO EXCITED.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: KvP on 30 Apr 2009, 01:36
Obviously we will stock up on t-shirts that look like tuxedos, with the printed-on bowtie and everything.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: jodizzle on 30 Apr 2009, 02:47
Man guys, now I am going to have to bring a pretty dress too?  I am trying to travel light here.

(mostly because I want to be able to travel heavy on the way home).
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Alex C on 30 Apr 2009, 02:50
Don't bring a pretty dress. It's already bad enough that I'm not going without adding Jodie-in-a-pretty-dress to the scenario.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Jace on 30 Apr 2009, 02:54
Oh man, if we are going to have a prom, I am super excited. I never went to prom from my highschool for a myriad of reasons, so I'd be excited to dress nice and go dancing.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Lines on 30 Apr 2009, 05:47
Fancy dress, dancing to cheesy songs, someone spiking the punch bowl, afterparties of people hooking up and causing drama.

Oh, prom.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Barmymoo on 30 Apr 2009, 08:15
Katie raises an interesting point: does this house have internet access? How are we going to have shenanigans if we can't show the internet how much fun we're having without them? It will just DEFEAT THE POINT.

Also we could always go prom dress shopping as part of Camp Edith, would that work?
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Liz on 30 Apr 2009, 10:10
I am totally up for prom night! I have a couple dresses I can bring, though I doubt I will bring my actual prom dress because it probably does not fit anymore. We'll see what I can come up with!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Boro_Bandito on 30 Apr 2009, 10:10
If necessary there are local libraries/internet cafes for you guys to go to, though nowadays freaking everywhere has wifi, internet shenanigans will be posted, don't worry.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: mberan42 on 30 Apr 2009, 14:27
Man I am so not down for Prom night. They just bring up bad memories of yesteryear sitting in a shitty banquet hall eating shitty food while a shitty band played "Brown Eyed Girl" and "Caroline" and "Tears in Heaven" and "My Girl" and other songs I now cannot stand and then going to the school-sanctioned After Prom at another shitty banquet hall but this time in the city where a shitty DJ played shitty rap songs or whatever was popular back in the late 90s and all night my date ignoring me to hang out with her friends and dance with other guys while I tried to hang out with her but just ended up looking awkward and weird until eventually I drifted away outside to smoke cigarettes and stare at Lake Michigan and downtown Chicago and wonder why the fuck I decided to shell out $150 for tickets and another $100 for an uncomfortable tuxedo and yet another $30 for a corsage for her that she didn't even like when I'm not even going to get a kiss goodnight from this girl and the only reason that she went with me is 'cause I asked her first and she resents me because Jim Maclaughlan asked her four periods later in the same day but she had already said yes to me but she really wanted to go with Jim but she couldn't tell me she changed her mind but hey, at least we didn't get our pictures taken, so that's like $75 I won't need to spend and oh good it's 1am, time to go home and forget this night ever happened.

So no. Fuck Prom night.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Lines on 30 Apr 2009, 16:53
But, but this one is "free" and I get to put Tyler in a dress and make him look perty (if he comes).

Come on.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Tyler on 30 Apr 2009, 16:56
And if you are lucky, you'll be the guy to take it off.   :wink:
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: ackblom12 on 30 Apr 2009, 17:01
I'm going to have to bring my wedding tux for this aren't I.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: sean on 30 Apr 2009, 17:18
now i am glad i decided against this meetup.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Will on 30 Apr 2009, 21:19
ooh, guys, can i come too please? pretty pretty please? i'll even stick around the forums and post again if you say yes
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: calenlass on 30 Apr 2009, 22:29
yes
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Barmymoo on 01 May 2009, 03:07
My school prom was pretty shocking too but this one will be awesome because we'll choose the music (I will not choose the music or we'll be dancing to Dolly Parton all night) and it will be free and it will be awesome and pleeeeeeeeeease guys I'll never get another chance to go to a prom with American people!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Boro_Bandito on 01 May 2009, 06:20
Funny story, I doubt I'll ever get the chance to go to another prom with American people. Of course, I was one of those folks who never went to prom, mainly because my senior year I switched high schools and didn't know anybody. I did go to the after party thing though at a bowling alley but then regretted it since I still didn't know anybody and spent a couple hours standing alone doing pretty much nothing except for the one time the cute popular girl in my English class that I had a crush on walked by, said hi, and after a couple awkward seconds walked on. This is when I called my dad and asked to be picked up because god damn it I sucked at high school and fuck prom and everything it stands for.

Fuck I am so with Matt on this. If you guys have prom night we'll be out back sitting in lawn chairs smoking cigarettes not talking to each other or anyone. That's if I go:

Oh hey so yeah you know that post I made earlier about my job well apparently its more complicated than that and I might be going back and this means I might be going but I'm still not so sure yet so it might be best to just tack me on to that list of maybes there now, maybe. I really don't like not being sure about this. Also if I go I might very well bring along my younger brother, who is a pretty cool dude.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: LiterSize on 01 May 2009, 12:18
Oh hell!  I really gotta log in more often...


Put me down as a maybe.  And in Lincoln park, are we still talking about doing bumper car polo, aka WHIRLYBALL?
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Liz on 01 May 2009, 19:33
So no. Fuck Prom night.

But Mattttttt, you could be my date! No need to buy flowers or rent a tux or a limo or anything. We will dance and get drunk and it will be like the prom you wish you had had in high school.

:D

EDIT: Will, shall I add you to my 'definitely' list, then?
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Lines on 01 May 2009, 21:29
Dudes all hatin on prom - My dinner made me sick! Also, the friend I went with decided I was an excellent rebound, even though I was still hung up on my ex! So hooray for trying not to barf while a friend you aren't in to tries to kiss you and you have to break his heart whilst trying not to barf! Prom fucking sucked! (Minus my dress. My dress ruled.)

But am I all about this prom? Yes. Why? BECAUSE IT WON'T FUCKING SUCK. IT WILL BE FUCKING AWESOME.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Will on 01 May 2009, 23:04

EDIT: Will, shall I add you to my 'definitely' list, then?

Not so much a definitely...I'm about 90% sure though, so put me down as a strong possible.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: ackblom12 on 01 May 2009, 23:17
Well, I'm not normally up for a night of sin making and debauchery but I do like punch!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Jace on 04 May 2009, 10:08
I need to shift to the maybe column for like a week or three. I don't have a job right now, so, you know, I have no income.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Lines on 04 May 2009, 17:29
To the people involved with Camp Eed and/or the Cedar Point outing - when are we going? I got invited to go see a concert in St. Louis with a friend and it's on the 25th and I want to see if I can do both. I'm asking because I can't remember when exactly Camp Eed is and whether the larger part is before or after Chicago. I may have already asked about this, but I forget these things!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Will on 04 May 2009, 17:34
the Cedar Point outing

WAIT - someone, tell me more about this! Cedar Point is only about a 2.5 hour drive for me, I could so easily do this!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Lines on 04 May 2009, 17:42
People in the area or attending Camp Eed are going to Cedar Point at some point before or after Chicago! And that's all I know.

COME HAVE FUN WITH US!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: yelley on 04 May 2009, 23:18
i'm in chicago right now, am i doing it right?
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Johnny C on 05 May 2009, 00:18
I'd be somewhat grateful if you mailed that t-shirt to me. I had a rather unfortunate incident with some bleach earlier which has reduced me to one hoody, three t-shirts and two pairs of jeans. As I grow older, I seem to be making more and more mistakes that I don't seem to learn from. I've been told on numerous occasions throughout my life that the opposite is supposed to happen.
I can't decide whether adults have been consistently lying to me my entire life or if I am just so accident prone that it hasn't been my day for a couple of years now.

This seems like an excellent time to purchase one of the few remaining Silkworm t-shirts (http://www.silkworm.net/shop/shop.php).
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Barmymoo on 05 May 2009, 00:56
OK well Camp Edith is basically 22nd July to the end of Chicagocon, with a bit of drifting homewards once Chicago has been thoroughly invaded. So Cedar Point will definitely be pre-Chicago (I'm assuming... unless we were making a detour on the way home, I'm not clear on whereabouts it actually is). I don't know if Eed has a vague schedule drawn up or not but I'm sure we can make it not be the 25th if necessary!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Liz on 05 May 2009, 12:35
No no no it is pre-Chicagocon because I am driving back to Fargo from Chicago and there is no way in HELL I will be missing out on Cedar Point. Linds, the schedule is flexible I think so we can work with you!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Professor Snuggles on 05 May 2009, 12:40
Dumbrella did a prom night at SDCC one year and it was basically the best time anyone ever had hanging out with people from the internet.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: KvP on 05 May 2009, 13:27
It should be noted that Emilio and I are currently planning to be staying in Chicago until the 7th, staying at a hostel or the like, and noodling around with the synths I will probably be bringing for all to enjoy. If anybody else is staying in the city post-con they are welcome to join us!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Slick on 05 May 2009, 17:26
uhggghh now I kind of want to come.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: ackblom12 on 05 May 2009, 17:41
C'mon James, do it. You know you want to. DDOOOOO EEEEEEEEET!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Slick on 05 May 2009, 17:41
Maybe I will.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Slick on 05 May 2009, 17:42
I will make a shirt saying "fucker."
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: jodizzle on 05 May 2009, 22:56
You have to come James.  you want to hang out with me don't you?
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Barmymoo on 07 May 2009, 04:07
I am not impressed with US Airways.

They have cancelled my return flight, but only half of it, with the result that I might be stuck in Philadelphia overnight. I'm going to ring them back later and try and sort things out with them but yeah, check your flight status guys especially if you booked with expedia.co.uk who don't bother to do anything as helpful as email you to let you know.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Metope on 07 May 2009, 04:31
May, that really sucks. Remember that Jens, Oli and I will be in Philadelphia for a few hours on the way home anyway so we'll keep you company for a while at least! Hope everything works out for you.

Also it is so weird that they didn't even email you, I thought that was kind of important! I got an email a couple of months ago saying that my flight schedule had been changed. Turned out one of the return flights had been moved with only two minutes, which is not a big matter at all, but they still let me know about it. Basically the company you booked with is ridiculous.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Metope on 07 May 2009, 04:36
Oh oh! May, what if we crash the Philadelphia airport? Maybe they will deport you!


I am so good at finding solutions.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Barmymoo on 07 May 2009, 05:12
Well I was considering sleeping in the airport since I'll be doing that on the way out, but then I went on some websites and they seem to think that it's not the nicest of airports ever.

Oh well it will be an adventure! I guess this is pretty much my only chance for a "gap year" experience since I'm not actually having a gap year so perhaps this will be fun!

Actually one of the flights has been changed by a couple of minutes, and that's a point, are we all still on the same flight out of Detroit? Mine's been put three minutes earlier to depart and six minutes earlier to arrive, and the final digit of the flight number is now 3 (don't want to be too specific obviously).
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Metope on 07 May 2009, 05:16
Yeah, that's the one that was changed for me too, so we're still on the same flight out of Detroit. No worries!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: KvP on 11 May 2009, 15:44
Looks like I'll be buying tix at the end of this week, provided the prices I'm seeing now are still in effect then. I'll be in Chi-town from the 30th through the 7th. I don't know where I'll stay for that first night (old man Hocking's?) or for the post-con duration of my stay, but given that I will be hanging with peeps who will also need shelter that shouldn't be too much of a problem. I know some people who are from Chicago who will probably know of serviceable hostels, in any case.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Alex C on 11 May 2009, 22:41
I'm still bummed I cannot make this. I was looking forward to awkward and probably Baldur's Gate related smalltalk with KvP.


Also drinking.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: ackblom12 on 12 May 2009, 15:33
Oh, me and Kat are offering a ride for a split of the gas bill if anyone wants to meet us in Rochester, or possbily later on the drive to get to Chicago if you want to save some cash. We have enough room for 1 - 2 folks.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: LiterSize on 14 May 2009, 19:39
<---Brian (for the front page)

So... Segway tours?  lol!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: jodizzle on 18 May 2009, 00:13
I finally got my quotes and itinerary for the trip. $4700 on flights :(  You guys better be fucking worth it.

Also Liz, you had better be worth approximately $600 because that is how much it costs t fly one way from Chicago to Fargo.  Like seriously WHAT.  You Americans and your over expensive domestic fligths.  It costs me $150 to fly return to Sydney!  How crazy is it that I am paying $600 to fly from Chicago to Fargo to get in a car and drive to Chicago?


Anyway, I am going in this week hopefully to finalise and pay, then there is no backing out!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: 0bsessions on 18 May 2009, 05:54
How crazy is it that I am paying $600 to fly from Chicago to Fargo to get in a car and drive to Chicago?

Very. Why fly to Chicago to begin with? Why not fly to a closer airport to the coast (Like NYC or ATL) and then fly to Fargo from there? Could you not get round trip from a different airport? Shit, by the sound of it, even buying two one way tickets might even be cheaper.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Will on 18 May 2009, 06:02
So who wants to meet me in Pittsburgh and take a train to Chicago? It's hells of fun!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Lines on 18 May 2009, 06:04
She'd be flying over the Pacific, not the Atlantic. That's really weird that you're going so far east when you shouldn't have to. But yay, Jodie is coming to Amurrica!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: 0bsessions on 18 May 2009, 06:17
She'd be flying over the Pacific, not the Atlantic. That's really weird that you're going so far east when you shouldn't have to. But yay, Jodie is coming to Amurrica!

Ah yes, I keep forgetting that she's not from Europe, but that makes even less sense. Why not fly in via LAX or San Francisco (I'm not sure if they do international) and then straight on to Fargo?
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Will on 18 May 2009, 08:09
So who wants to meet me in Pittsburgh and take a train to Chicago? It's hells of fun!

You're coming to Chicago? Raddd

Yeah, there's really no reason for me not to; a round trip train ride (my favorite mode of transportation) to Chicago (my favorite city) is only $110 for me, and I finally get to meet more forumites than just mberan...what's not to like!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Liz on 18 May 2009, 11:32
Jodie I am worth approximately $10,042 dollars. You are getting a DEAL, let me tell you.

Have you actually bought the tickets yet? If not, you could totally skip Fargocon and fly into Minneapolis instead, that's got to be a ton cheaper. And we would still get to go to the GIANT mall.

P.S. other people should fly into MPLS too so we can have a giant awesome road trip of joy and fun~
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Lines on 18 May 2009, 12:18
I am not flying. At the rate I'm going, I may not even be driving. But that's ok, because Megabus is super cheap or I may steal Will's idea and take a train for the first time ever. Decisions decisions.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: LiterSize on 18 May 2009, 14:33
Shall we toss more ideas?


Lessee..... whirlyball, laser tag, bar hangouts?

Any ideas on what neighborhoods ye all would like?  I'm guessing to ease costs, so we won't go into the loop or anything. 
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Will on 18 May 2009, 14:38
Linds...seriously...take the train. Depending on where you're coming from, it may be a little expensive, but coming into Union Station in the morning is an absolutely wonderful experience.

I may be way off here, but you're from the eastern part of the US, right? If so, you should DEFINITELY take the train, because the only route to Chicago from the East Coast is through Pittsburgh - we could be travlin' buddies!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Lines on 18 May 2009, 16:05
I live in Cincinnati, OH. The train I'd be taking doesn't have a stop in Pittsburgh. :-( It's the 51 Cardinal route for Amtrak.

Liter, I haven't played laser tag in years. That sounds fun.

Edit: Looks like if I take a train, I'd have to either arrive on the 30th or the 1st and have to leave on the 4th. So I will have to wait to see if this is an option or not depending on work and what is going on with Cedar Point. Also, Megabus is like half the cost of a train. DON'T KNOW!!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: BrittanyMarie on 18 May 2009, 18:55
JODIE if Liz isn't worth $600 I will throw myself in there too. I am definitely worth at least $600. I would beat someone (not you) up if you were in Fargo and I didn't at least meet you.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Liz on 18 May 2009, 19:50
Oh Brittany you should just come to Chicagocon and stop being silly. FUN TIMES will be had by all.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: BrittanyMarie on 18 May 2009, 20:36
I knew I was going to start paying loans and also moving into a more expensive place, so that's around a $350/month difference so all my savings money is being used as a Just In Case fund. Especially cuz there are all these people who call in and are like "I GOT LAID OFF AND HAVE NO MONEY AND I CAN'T PAY THIS BILL" and sometimes they cry and I do not want to end up where they are. Not like it is their fault or anything, I'm just a hoarder with anxiety who grew up poor.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: jodizzle on 18 May 2009, 22:50
I am pretty sure the thing was that Chicago was the only place I could get a direct flight to Fargo, the others had changeovers and I am really not good with airports so I will pay extra to avoid that. Something like that anyway.  God I hate airports so much.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Barmymoo on 19 May 2009, 04:05
take a train for the first time ever

...

seriously?

I can't comprehend living in a country where trains are not a regular part of life. I hadn't even thought about this but does America have inter-town trains? Like, trains that stop at each little village along the way? Or does the ubiquity of the automobile make it unnecessary? (I am so pretentious today)

Wow. Ever so often something reminds me that America is a whole other country, not just some kind of British clone a few thousand miles away.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Eris on 19 May 2009, 04:11
That's Australia.

We have trains! I travel on trains a lot! I like them, but only when they work and there aren't creepy homeless-looking people watching me while I listen to Ratatat and dance in my seat a little.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: CardinalFang on 19 May 2009, 04:55
take a train for the first time ever

...

seriously?

I can't comprehend living in a country where trains are not a regular part of life. I hadn't even thought about this but does America have inter-town trains? Like, trains that stop at each little village along the way? Or does the ubiquity of the automobile make it unnecessary? (I am so pretentious today)

Wow. Ever so often something reminds me that America is a whole other country, not just some kind of British clone a few thousand miles away.


Seriously.
I've never been on a train and I don't know many people who have.
To the best of my knowledge unless Amtrak has a stop in your city you don't have passenger rail service.

Here's what AAA has to say about the upcoming Memorial Day weekend (emphasis mine).

"Trips by auto will be the beneficiary of Americans’ returning wanderlust with 27 million people – or nearly 83 percent of all travelers - planning a road trip. This is an increase from last Memorial Day when 26.3 million travelers paid among the highest fuel prices on record to travel by motor vehicle. This summer AAA does not expect the price of gasoline to average more than $2.50 per gallon. The current nationwide average price of self-serve regular is $2.22 and in Hampton Roads the average is $2.08. In contrast to trips by personal automobile, trips by air will decline by 1 percent. Approximately 2.1 million Americans will travel by air over the holiday weekend, AAA said. This is 7 percent of total travelers. Trips by other modes, including rail, buses and watercraft, will be the dominant means of travel used by an estimated 3.3 million Americans, or 10 percent of all travelers."

I would bet that most of that 10% will be on a bus instead of a train.

I wish there were more and better train service.



Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: pwhodges on 19 May 2009, 05:02
I (just barely) remember trains that had not only first and second class compartments, but also third class.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Eris on 19 May 2009, 05:10
Paul, there is a man who catches the same train as I do on Tuesday evenings who is the Newcastle version of you! He has less hair though, and looks unhappier. He gets off at the same station as me and is always listening to music on the train while reading the Financial Review.


I don't need to meet the internet, I see them all the time, it seems.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: pwhodges on 19 May 2009, 05:14
while reading the Financial Review.

That I would never do...
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Eris on 19 May 2009, 05:17
Maybe that is why Newcastle Paul is unhappy?
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Barmymoo on 19 May 2009, 05:32
You are all missing out, that is all I can say, and if you ever come to the UK then I advise you to get an open return ticket from somewhere to somewhere else and get out of the train as often as possible to look at the little villages and then catch the next train on from where you are (make sure there actually is a next train, it is possible to be come stranded in Little Higginsworth-on-the-Wyne for five days and there are no shops and no pub and basically nothing at all except three churches and an inexplicable barber's shop).

Trains are the best thing.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Lines on 19 May 2009, 06:22
Barmy, I've been on subways before, just not an actual train above ground.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Will on 19 May 2009, 07:16
I believe that one of Obama's ideas for "stimulus" in America involves a renewed interest in rail infrastructure. I can remember as a kid that there were multiple routes daily running through the Pittsburgh Amtrak stop; now, your choices are limited to the Capitol Ltd (Chicago->DC) and the Pennsylvanian (Pitt->Philly) and those trains only run once each per day.

It's a shame that passenger rail traffic has gone the way of the buffalo...it's a wonderful way to travel, and I'm insanely jealous of you fine folks in Europe, Australia, and other countries who were smart enough to invest in and maintain their rail system. I wish I could hop on a train and ride about the country.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Liz on 19 May 2009, 07:21
I'm pretty sure they're planning on running a rail system from Minneapolis to Chicago, which will be fantastic. From what I've seen of Chicago (been there three times for just a short time period) I really like it, so now I will be able to get there more easily! Too bad it won't be open before Chicagocon...
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Barmymoo on 19 May 2009, 07:28
From my relatively limited knowledge of European rail systems, ours is pretty shocking. There's always one major section of the line closed for no particularly good reason, you're almost certain to end up on a rail replacement bus at one point during your journey if it happens during a holiday or the weekend, and particularly if you're travelling anywhere near Chester you will miss your connection, you will end up stranded at a station for several hours with no idea what's going on, and you will be late. But the upside of travelling by train here, and it's a big upside, is that train lines have a special knack for travelling through the most beautiful part of any area and letting you see all the different parts of countryside. My favourite section of train line is the one that goes through Middlesborough (I was trying to find the name of the line but interestingly a Google search for the word "Middlesborough" elicits a content filter rating of 2375 [for reference, a search for "kitten porn" only gets a score of 2845]). Not only are the trains fairly punctual and the scenery nice, but the tables have built-in chess boards and Monopoly sets.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Oli on 19 May 2009, 07:33
So who wants to meet me in Pittsburgh and take a train to Chicago? It's hells of fun!

I have of late begun formulating a plan to fit a trip to Pittsburgh into this adventure because a good friend of mine lives there and it seems like a waste to go to the states and not see her and she has a broken hip! This does depend on a couple of things such as money and how easy it is to get from Fort Wayne to Pittsburgh, but I was planning on either flying or getting the train from Pittsburgh to Chicago.

If I did I'd be in Pittsburgh for probably a maximum of 2 days, but maybe would only be able to meet you at the station before getting the train because I would be staying with a cripple and her husband and it might be a bit weird.

Also this is very very far from definite.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Will on 19 May 2009, 07:44
I was looking up ticket prices last night; a train ticket from Pittsburgh to Chicago leaving July 30th and returning August 4th will run you about $150 round trip, plane fare for roughly the same dates will be $125. If you're planning on making Pittsburgh a layover stop before Chicago, I'd say the extra $25 is worth the trip. The Capitol Ltd is a red-eye train that leaves Pitt at roughly 11:55pm and arrives in Chicago at 8:40am the next morning. Plus, unlike either Midway or O'hare, Union Station is right in downtown...literally, you walk two blocks from the Canal St. entrance, and you're already in The Loop.

Keep me posted, for sure!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Zingoleb on 19 May 2009, 19:55
Damn, I really wish I could go. Oh, well. Some other year, perhaps, perhaps.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Tyler on 19 May 2009, 20:36
That and it is a good idea to first build a better repertoire with those in attendance so they feel friendly with you.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Barmymoo on 20 May 2009, 02:57
There are a few changes to the situation with the house, so I've changed the accommodation post but I'll post it here too.

The rental company have either made a mistake or got confused and our contract appears to be for July 31st - August 3rd, which is one day fewer than we had thought. Obviously this will mean that things are cheaper but it will also mean that anyone who was planning on staying the Monday night may need to make alternative plans. As soon as things are settled I'll post again.

I know it's a while off yet but in terms of arriving at the house, we can't get there before 5pm and it would be better if most people aimed for a bit later, in case of eyebrow-raising over the number of people staying. We can sort this out properly closer to the time but please try and factor this into your plans :-) We need to check out on the day we leave (it looks like the Monday at the moment) by 11am.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Jace on 20 May 2009, 03:12
Oh hey, also, I'm not able to go to this anymore. Interest waned and I have other stuff I have to spend money on.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: David_Dovey on 20 May 2009, 03:51
All of this train-talk leads me to believe that the next thing the various con-interested forum members should be organising is Orient ExpressCon. If you'd like I can even organise for one (1) member to be murdered on the train!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Lines on 20 May 2009, 05:13
I do not want to be murdered. Someone was almost murdered last year and while funny to remember was actually not so funny while it was happening.

Also that is kind of lame about the house. But hey, a house is better than no house and that helps a bit with travel plans.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Slick on 20 May 2009, 06:36
build a better repertoire

rapport?
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Tyler on 20 May 2009, 06:48
woops
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Will on 20 May 2009, 07:56
There are a few changes to the situation with the house, so I've changed the accommodation post but I'll post it here too.

The rental company have either made a mistake or got confused and our contract appears to be for July 31st - August 3rd, which is one day fewer than we had thought. Obviously this will mean that things are cheaper but it will also mean that anyone who was planning on staying the Monday night may need to make alternative plans. As soon as things are settled I'll post again.

I know it's a while off yet but in terms of arriving at the house, we can't get there before 5pm and it would be better if most people aimed for a bit later, in case of eyebrow-raising over the number of people staying. We can sort this out properly closer to the time but please try and factor this into your plans :-) We need to check out on the day we leave (it looks like the Monday at the moment) by 11am.

If I come, I'll be arriving at Chicago around 8:40am, but my usual modus operandi when visiting Chicago is to get off the train, grab a CTA pass, and wander about the city anyway. I'll most likely amuse myself all day finding things to do, and then try to meet up with everybody later that night.

For anyone staying at the house whose travel plans involve arriving in Chicago ass-early in the morning, the Museum of Contemporary Art opens at 10am and can easily eat up several hours of your day. Anyone feel like organizing a group walk-through?
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Liz on 20 May 2009, 08:26
Also, we do have a few forumites in the city, so maybe if you ask them nicely they will let you drop your shit off at their place, and maybe hang out for a while. No guarantees, though.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Ozymandias on 20 May 2009, 08:44
take a train for the first time ever

...

seriously?

I can't comprehend living in a country where trains are not a regular part of life. I hadn't even thought about this but does America have inter-town trains? Like, trains that stop at each little village along the way? Or does the ubiquity of the automobile make it unnecessary? (I am so pretentious today)

Wow. Ever so often something reminds me that America is a whole other country, not just some kind of British clone a few thousand miles away.

This is actually something I did for the first time about two months ago. The current governor of my state made it a priority to get cheaper, more efficient inter-city travel up and down the Rio Grande and launched the Railrunner, a passenger train that covers about 100 miles of the major metropolitan areas of the state. Unfortunately, the southernmost end is about 40 miles from my town, which is incredibly frustrating because taking a train up to downtown Santa Fe for a day is super rad.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: 0bsessions on 20 May 2009, 09:59
All of this train-talk leads me to believe that the next thing the various con-interested forum members should be organising is Orient ExpressCon. If you'd like I can even organise for one (1) member to be murdered on the train!

You know, this actually sounds like a lot of fun. Just take a week, get a bunch of people together and take a train from one place to another, spending a day in each destination. You don't need hotel accommodations if you're sleeping on a train. Maybe make it a three stop mobile meetup.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Metope on 20 May 2009, 10:05
EuroCon 2010 (http://www.interrailnet.com/)
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: 0bsessions on 20 May 2009, 10:09
I was actually just checking the same thing in the US: US Amtrak Map (http://www.amtrak.com/pdf/national.pdf).
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Metope on 20 May 2009, 10:10
Let's all get filthy rich and do both!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: pen on 20 May 2009, 10:11
I vote Europe.  Is there a vote?  There is now.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: 0bsessions on 20 May 2009, 10:13
I'd like the idea of DC to Chicago to Denver to San Francisco, that'd be epic.

But I'd be more than open to Europe if a vote went that way.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: 0bsessions on 20 May 2009, 10:25
The Europe one looks more fun by a WIDE margin, but it'd take a severe time and monetary commitment from anyone interested, plus, it'd be ass expensive for us Americans. We'd have to buy individual fares, since only European citizens can get the global pass (which seems idiotic, as this entire thing would be mostly beneficial for tourists). If I were going to go for a rail ride in Europe, I'd want to check out more than one country. It seems kind of pointless otherwise, honestly.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Will on 20 May 2009, 10:33
I'd like the idea of DC to Chicago to Denver to San Francisco, that'd be epic.

But I'd be more than open to Europe if a vote went that way.

DC to Chicago to Seattle would be amazing too...the Empire Builder from Chicago to Seattle is considered by train buffs to be the most beautiful route through the US of any mode of transportation, period. The History Channel had a short lived series called "Extreme Trains" that did an episode on that route...it's breathtaking even on TV; can't imagine how epic in must be in real life.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: 0bsessions on 20 May 2009, 10:40
That also sounds delightful. I'm primarily thinking it based on QCer locations. Can't attend a con? We'll bring the con to you! Either way, this would be one that'd probably take over a year of planning, as it would be hella expensive (I just priced the route, it's only $275 one way if you wanna sit in coach the whole time, but it jumps to $1500 if you go with one of the basic sleeping rooms and over $2,000 for one with a private shower. Monetarily speaking, the best bet would probably be to take a two day layover in each stop and get a hostel/hotel for one night at each to give time to explore the city for a full day while staying coach the whole way, but the option of a bed would be there for anyone not keen on that.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Metope on 20 May 2009, 10:40
What, only Europeans can buy the global pass? Yeah that's pretty absurd. Well, I guess the whole thing requires too much planning and money from everyone interested to be a success anyway, seeing how night trains usually requires paying extra to get a comfortable place to sleep, and you often have to order the ticket a day or two before getting on the train. Setting up a route everyone is happy with can also be a challenge.

I'm doing this in a couple of weeks with a few friends anyway, so I'll let you know how it went. I'm super excited!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: pen on 20 May 2009, 10:48
Also seems more time consuming than just a week, depending on the route.  If we tried to get too many places in with a couple days at each place, that'd add up fast, and not everyone gets good vactation time from their companies. 
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: 0bsessions on 20 May 2009, 10:52
Right. Upon reevaluation, this'd probably be a two week venture and probably not the best for most of the forum. I'd still like to try it at some point anyway, just get a group together and try it.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: jhocking on 20 May 2009, 13:31
the Empire Builder from Chicago to Seattle is considered by train buffs to be the most beautiful route through the US of any mode of transportation, period.

crap and I've already been doing too much traveling the last couple months
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: 0bsessions on 20 May 2009, 14:19
If this idea actually ends up getting off the ground, it'd be in excess of a year off at best.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Lines on 20 May 2009, 16:49
If I took the train, I'd have to arrive on either the 30th or the 1st arriving there around 10am and leave on the 4th and get home around 3am. If I take the Megabus, I can get to Chicago (on the 31st) at 6:20am or 2pm and then leave (on the 3rd) 8am, 3:30pm, or 10pm. And if I did the super early time, my round trip would cost me at most $25. ($45 if I did the latter arrival time.)

So...I think I may be taking the bus again because the train schedule just does not want to work for me, unless someone doesn't mind me spending the night Thursday night? I'm definitely not going to be taking the train home, but if someone doesn't mind lending me couch/floor space, I will most definitely take the train up.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: jodizzle on 20 May 2009, 18:08
Guys my plane leaves on the Tuesday from Chicago so we will have to work something out if we can't stay Monday night in the house!

I am organised to go and pay for my tickets tomorrow oh my god that means this is really happening AAAAHHHHHH
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: calenlass on 21 May 2009, 01:08
woooooooo
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Barmymoo on 21 May 2009, 01:59
Oh hey, also, I'm not able to go to this anymore.

For definite? :(
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: jodizzle on 21 May 2009, 03:34
dammit, there has been a slight hiccup with my tickets, just when I thought it was sorted.  Apparently in order to use the cheaper around the world fare I need 3 stops.  I ccurrently only have 2, Chicago and London. wah, what should I do?
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Barmymoo on 21 May 2009, 05:51
You could fly into somewhere else in Europe on the way, possibly?
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Jace on 21 May 2009, 07:29
Oh hey, also, I'm not able to go to this anymore.

For definite? :(

Unless I get like $3000 dollars in the next month or two, yeah, I can't go. I mean, it's entirely feasible that I do get that money, but I mean, I don't have a job right now. And I might not get one for a bit, and even if I do, I won't get any money from it for a month, depending on the job. Things were supposed to be in place at the start of this month, but that didn't work out. If it is all set up by middle of June, I can go, otherwise, its a no go. Unless I found a way to drive up there and bum around for the days, my current situation stops me.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Ozymandias on 21 May 2009, 08:11
dammit, there has been a slight hiccup with my tickets, just when I thought it was sorted.  Apparently in order to use the cheaper around the world fare I need 3 stops.  I ccurrently only have 2, Chicago and London. wah, what should I do?

Albuquerque!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Boro_Bandito on 21 May 2009, 10:58
Where the towels are oh so fluffly! And the air smells like warm rootbeer.


Umm yeah, I'm in Pants' situation, can't go unless I get a job, since I don't have one now and I'm down to near desperate level with what money I have left. My maybe is becoming more and more probably a no.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: jodizzle on 21 May 2009, 21:21
It has to be a different country Jordan!

Stupid COMPLICATIONS
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Liz on 21 May 2009, 22:09
Bangkok.

hee
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: jhocking on 21 May 2009, 22:48
real mature
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: jodizzle on 22 May 2009, 00:17
ok guys.  I am officially booked in for this as of today.  I have paid,. I am set.  Liz, I will be seeing you in Fargo on the 20th of July at like, 10:something pm.

I got around the other stop thing by adding a few days in Paris at the end of my trip.  Who would have thought I would be all, oh yeah, why not, chuck Paris in there too why don't you?

So I'm set, I will be at Chicago!  I hope you all appreciate how fucking broke you are all making me.  Dicks.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: LiterSize on 22 May 2009, 07:48
So the facebook link just takes me to the main facebook page.  Is there a planning/meetup event page, too?
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Lines on 22 May 2009, 08:07
Don't think so, so I'll make one up.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Lines on 22 May 2009, 08:24
Group is made. It's locked, so if I didn't invite you it's just because we aren't friends on facebook, not because I hate you or something. So those who I did invite, fill in the gaps, or the people who I didn't invite can find me on facebook and I'll send an invite on over.

Just for various reasons, we'll talk about the exact details, like where we're staying, over there.

Wait, I found the event page. Which I forgot existed.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Liz on 22 May 2009, 09:15
yayyyy Jodie! We will have fun times, I promise!

From my thinking there are two options we have for a schedule:

 1) Spend Tuesday doing whatever in Fargo. Wednesday morning, wake up and drive to Minneapolis. Do fun things in Minneapolis. Stay Wednesday night in Minneapolis with cousin/brother/friend. Thursday morning, ass out of bed and drive to Fort Wayne. (Could also maybe stay in Chicago overnight Thursday if the drive gets too long). Roll into Fort Wayne either Thursday night or Friday morning.

 2) Spend Tuesday morning/afternoon doing whatever in Fargo. Head to Minneapolis Tuesday night, sleep. Wednesday morning do fun things in Minneapolis. Drive to Chicago. Stay overnight Wednesday with random forumite (necessary for plan two). Continue to Fort Wayne Thursday morning.

Both would work well, it just depends how much fun we are having, I guess.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Will on 22 May 2009, 11:44
Linds, I responded to the Facebook event thing for this, so my FB link is there somewhere. William James, look me up so you can add me or something.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Lines on 22 May 2009, 11:52
Found you! And other people from the event, so I added you folks too.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: mberan42 on 22 May 2009, 13:01
cousin/brother/friend.

/insert Dueling Banjos theme music here.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Liz on 22 May 2009, 20:12
I am confused.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Liz on 22 May 2009, 20:14
Oh wait I just figured it out.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Liz on 22 May 2009, 20:15
Fuck you Matt.

(look at me I'm cool because I posted three times in a row!)
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Barmymoo on 23 May 2009, 04:16
I'm confused too, the link ought to go to the Facebook events page (which is still there, I checked!) Silly computer.
And guys, Tommy makes a good point. Let's keep logistical arrangements to PMs or Facebook private messages. Although you have to be a member of this forum to read the threads, there is not police check before you sign up and we don't know who's reading this.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Lines on 23 May 2009, 09:52
Well, the cool thing about the group page is that if you're not in it, you can't see the wall, topics, or photos. Just the top part, pretty much. So we can discuss it there and not worry about strangers seeing what we're up to. Also I can switch it to "secret" if need be, which means no one but the members can see it at all. Right now, members are by invite only or they have to request to be added, which goes to me.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: ackblom12 on 12 Jun 2009, 12:03
Ok folks, it's only 7 weeks off and we have the housing situation sorted, we just need everyone to make their final decisions on if they can come soon.

So if you could update your status and we'll try to keep the list up to date so we can determine how much everyone needs to have to pay their part and determine how the hell we're gonna cram this many folks in.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: KvP on 12 Jun 2009, 13:34
def going
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Lines on 12 Jun 2009, 13:57
Definitely going! Will be buying bus tickets in the near future. (Train schedule is just not working out for me.)

Also, look at the group page on facebook and post in the topic about the house whether or not you're staying there to make things easier for Edith.

Also, I think I may have to make this (http://farm1.static.flickr.com/32/93252092_3b88502d9d.jpg) and bring it with me...
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Slick on 12 Jun 2009, 17:26
I'm pretty sure I said definitely not a while ago but I am still a "maybe" on the list so slap me into "definitely not".
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Liz on 12 Jun 2009, 18:34
James you make me sad.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Slick on 12 Jun 2009, 18:35
I will make a shirt saying "fucker."
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Liz on 12 Jun 2009, 18:44
You still make me sad.

For not coming to see me again.

I thought we had something SPECIAL.

sob, sob, sob
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Johnny C on 12 Jun 2009, 19:03
yep yep
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: calenlass on 12 Jun 2009, 20:43
I am going. I think I am covering some floorspace for Tyler or something with my money? If he can go? He is going to like roll his sleeping bag out on top of me and use me as a mattress pad or something. At least, I am pretty sure that is all the space available what with everyone being crammed in like sardines.

Man this still seems like it is forever away, because it has been so far off for so long.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Liz on 12 Jun 2009, 20:45
Nah, it's a big house. There are three queen beds and one king, plus a few couches, and ample floor space. It's not going to be that crowded, really.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: jodizzle on 13 Jun 2009, 01:15
I am a definate!  After all the money I spent on you jerks it better be worth it.  You all better buy me food.  And presents.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: est on 13 Jun 2009, 06:28
I am pretty sure that is not how it works, J-Diz.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: jodizzle on 13 Jun 2009, 15:59
Quiet Benoli, you are ruining it for everyone.


Well, me anyway.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Lines on 13 Jun 2009, 16:06
I will give you hugs and buy you a drink!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: KvP on 13 Jun 2009, 17:45
We'll play Arkham and I'll let you be the best investigator

(hint - it's the federali)
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Will on 18 Jun 2009, 21:47
Sorry, QC forums...I will regretably have to bow out of Chicagocon :-(

However, it is for good reason: I am trying to finance a 10-12 day tour doing spoken word poetry across as much of the country as I can visit. So if anyone wants to help me book a gig, at a slam or a coffee shop, or whatever...that would be awesome!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Oli on 19 Jun 2009, 02:34
Book one in Chicago!

Anyone from the UK (is that just me and May?) should check out this site (http://fairfx.com) before getting money changed, it gives a better conversion rate than the post office and you can arrange both money (although you'll have to pay delivery on orders below £500) and a chip and pin, preloaded Mastercard card which is obviously easier and safer than money/travellers cheques.

Be careful when you register though; you have to set your address as the one the card you're planning on buying dollars with is registered at because there is no change address option and that field is already filled in when you try to pay by card. I made that mistake thinking I'd get it delivered to my flat while my cards are registered at my parent's home so I'm going to have to re-register.

It is like a month!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Barmymoo on 19 Jun 2009, 03:59
Oops I already got my money! I need to get some travel insurance though, should I go for a really cheap one with high excesses or pay the full £70 for the Post Office insurance which insures you to the hilt for everything including alien attack?
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: mberan42 on 19 Jun 2009, 13:39
Man guys, Will already did a gig in Chicago like 2 years ago. You all missed it!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: sean on 20 Jun 2009, 08:59
Dogg planning on hitting DC?

I don't know much about the poetry scene here but I can try to help.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Will on 20 Jun 2009, 09:13
Matt, that gig was awesome. The people at the cafe basically had no clue what was going on, there was no sound system at all, and we had no actual place to read. And for some reason that made it fucking AWESOME!

DC would be cool, and I know they have a decent slam venue there. Depending on if we end up doing a road gig in the beginning of August of the middle, we could maybe plan on doing a couple days in Chicago - catch a gig at the Green Mill maybe, and do a house show for you guys!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Barmymoo on 23 Jun 2009, 01:47
Guys I totally leave in four weeks! I have bought travel insurance and money and a really big hat!

Should I buy a swimming costume? Is swimming likely? I don't like swimming much but I don't want to be left out of any shenangians!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: jhocking on 23 Jun 2009, 05:04
You can go swimming in the lake!  Unless it is closed for disease!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Lines on 23 Jun 2009, 05:11
I was not planning on bringing a bathing suit to Chicago.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Liz on 23 Jun 2009, 10:11
May I think you might want one, I seem to recall Eed saying we might go swimming during Camp Eed. Also there will probably be a water park at Cedar Point, so you might want one for then.

(I am bringing mine.)
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Ernest on 23 Jun 2009, 10:17
Put me down for maybe
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Barmymoo on 23 Jun 2009, 11:55
Ah, hmm. I'll have to buy one. Good point about Cedar Point, I hadn't thought of that.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Jace on 23 Jun 2009, 15:09
I am still heavy in the maybe. Who knows if I can get some money and make it to chicago for a week or something. I really want to make it, but I have no money, yet.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Lines on 23 Jun 2009, 19:31
Do you guys know when you're going to Cedar Point? If you're going on a Sunday, I can definitely go, but otherwise I'll have to see what my schedule is like. Yaaaaaay roller coasters and water rides and funnnnnn!

(I will be bringing Advil.)
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: jodizzle on 24 Jun 2009, 01:09
Yeah I figured that bringing swimmers would be a good idea, I'm glad that has been settled for me.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Ernest on 24 Jun 2009, 11:34
for the record guys, you can call me Ernie.  Ernest is my birth name
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: nobo on 24 Jun 2009, 15:23
people in grade school called me Bert.

Maybe we can be friends?
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Ernest on 24 Jun 2009, 18:23
maybe we can be gay lovers
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: nobo on 24 Jun 2009, 19:39
if you insist. i get to be big spoon though.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Vendetagainst on 25 Jun 2009, 12:13
Whoo! So I just found out when school starts and the vacation that my dad was planning for us would be for the two weeks before that and there is no overlap between that and Chicagocon so I have a very good feeling that I will be able to go! I really look forward to meeting you people, I hope you do not hate me with the passion of ten thousand suns or anything.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Liz on 25 Jun 2009, 15:52
yayyyyyy another attendee! I look forward to meeting you!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Vendetagainst on 25 Jun 2009, 18:46
Yay I am looking forward to meeting you too!
If anyone is interested in drinking or otherwise enjoying themselves atop a four story building I can possibly have that arranged.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: De_El on 25 Jun 2009, 19:04
Oh, huh. Well I didn't say anything for a long time because I wanted to be better friends with y'all but right when I figured I would sort of make my way into the community's heart is also when I was destroying myself and feeling terrible all the time, so I didn't really do that. It's been a little while since then and my parents live in Chicago so if I'm kept abreast of events and plans I hope I can maybe tag along?
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Liz on 25 Jun 2009, 19:20
Alex. Buddy. You can definitely join in! I've met you and declare you SUPER RAD so this is your official invitation. Be there or be square!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: De_El on 25 Jun 2009, 20:53
Ummmm, will do.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Liz on 01 Jul 2009, 17:00
Alright kids. Here is the deal. Recently I have acquired a rubber ducky that is GREEM (see here (http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2670/3677467900_b0dec73eee.jpg?v=0)). It has been decided by the current meebo community (i.e. Stephen and me) that he will attending Chicagocon as our mascot. We will take him everywhere and get his adorable greem face into as many pictures as possible. But there is one small problem.

Mr. Ducky needs a NAME. So please, make your suggestions. We will choose the name that suits him (or her, I suppose) best, and that shall be the name.

GO GO GO.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Alex C on 01 Jul 2009, 17:02
Bat dicks.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Ozymandias on 01 Jul 2009, 17:31
Maverick
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Lines on 01 Jul 2009, 17:58
Totally a him. I vote for calling him Billy McQuackster.

Then get Johnny to ask him if he's ever been to sea.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: KvP on 01 Jul 2009, 18:08
(http://gothamist.com/attachments/arts_jen/042308fmurray.jpg)
F. MURRAY ABRAHAAAAAAAAAM
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Liz on 01 Jul 2009, 18:41
Linds, I like the first name of Billy. That is good! However I am not too keen on McQuackster (it is adorable, yes, but perhaps too adorable?)
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Lines on 01 Jul 2009, 20:18
Hmm. I looked up duck last names from 90s cartoons (you know, Darkwing Duck and Duck Tales) and there's other last names: McDuck, Vanderquack, Beakly, McQuack, Von Drake, and Von Beak. (I like Vanderquack.)
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: E. Spaceman on 01 Jul 2009, 23:33
Umberto Eco
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Johnny C on 01 Jul 2009, 23:34
Umberto Umberto
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: BrittanyMarie on 02 Jul 2009, 00:23
Emilio McJohnnyCMarie
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: pwhodges on 02 Jul 2009, 07:02
That duck is called Cyril.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Alex C on 02 Jul 2009, 13:34
I used hang with a guy named Juan Miguel Sanchez; he was kind of an ass and he eventually he went to prison for assaulting a pizza delivery guy a few years back, but I still hold that at his name was pretty tops.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Liz on 02 Jul 2009, 19:44
Alex, have you rounded up enough money to come on this little adventure yet?
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Alex C on 02 Jul 2009, 20:14
Afraid it just won't happen. Apologies, but there it is.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Liz on 02 Jul 2009, 20:18
Figured as much, but I was still hoping.

Also that is not a good name for my duck, but thanks for playing!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: calenlass on 03 Jul 2009, 01:41
Duck is Lil' Fucker.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Barmymoo on 03 Jul 2009, 06:57
I like the surname O'Mallard. Cyril O'Mallard? Billy O'Mallard? He looks Irish to me.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Liz on 03 Jul 2009, 09:22
Honestly I'm completely shocked that nobody has suggested Ultimate Dicksucker yet.

You should all be ashamed of yourselves.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: calenlass on 03 Jul 2009, 11:04
too obvious
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Lines on 03 Jul 2009, 12:02
Do you really want your duck to be the Ultimate Dicksucker? I mean, think about that for a minute.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Barmymoo on 03 Jul 2009, 12:18
Ultimate Ducksicker?
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Liz on 03 Jul 2009, 12:22
I think it would be kind of funny.

Okay, Chicagocon activities- what does everyone think about having a SHOWER RACE WORLD CUP. Our house has three bathrooms, so we could totally do this. Tournament bracket and all. Possibly a trophy.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: october1983 on 03 Jul 2009, 12:55
Bad news guys: as I already mentioned in the Blog Thread, I've had to move my flight home to a date that means I will not be able to attend ChicagoCon. I am pretty upset to not be seeing you guys, but the stress staying for the extra week would have caused in terms of finance, among other things, had the potential to make my whole America trip no fun at all, and so I had to make a hard decision. Sorry. If anyone is going to be about in Chicago before the 27th, though, I'd definitely be up for going for a drink or something similar!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Barmymoo on 03 Jul 2009, 13:19
:( But you're probably right to make that decision.

People who have been to Chicago a few times: we need some kind of ideas about what we can do there. There are so many people going, and not everyone in the same place, that it might be hard to make completely spontaneous plans.



Also: will these discount coupons (http://www.chicagoofficeoftourism.org/chicagocoupons/shopping/shoppingCoupons1.html) be useful?

Also also: Here (http://www.elitechicagorentals.com/files/elitechicagorentals.pdf) is a list of things the rental company puts in its houses so we don't need to bring them.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Lines on 03 Jul 2009, 15:07
Liz, I am all about the shower race. It will be epic.

All I know for things I want to do are visit the Threadless store (because I hearts Threadless) and visit the art museum. I think going to the Shedd Aquarium would be pretty sweet, too.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Liz on 03 Jul 2009, 20:45
Awwww Dicky I am so sad! When are you going to be getting into Chicago? Jodie and I will be driving through sometime around the 21st or so, so we could probably stop and hang out for a few hours. Otherwise (and this might be a bit of a stretch), if you wanted to join the Camp Edith crew for a day or two, we could pick you up on our way through, hang out for a couple days, and drop you at the South Bend airport so you could catch the train into Chicago.

I want to hang out with you so let's make something work!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: october1983 on 04 Jul 2009, 18:32
I'll be about on the 21st - let's do this.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Liz on 04 Jul 2009, 22:28
Do you want to join Camp Edith for a few days, or just have a fun night with Jodie and me? Also it will be the 22nd, I was a day off. We'll be in Minneapolis on the 21st.

(That was not meant to sound dirty. Pervs)
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: jodizzle on 05 Jul 2009, 03:10
Oh please Liz, you totes meant that to sound dirty.

Hey guys, Aaron and I went shopping the other day and bought a whole pile of cheap and silly Australia themed things.  there will be at least one silly tiny and completely useless gift for everyone attending!

There is also be a slightly better gift for each of the four people who are putting up with me in their homes (Liz, Eed, Roddles and Danosaur) and a boomerang for Emilio, because he wouldn't shut up and I want my goddamn scarf.

This is going to be awesome guys.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Liz on 05 Jul 2009, 09:52
Jodie we are going to be crashing with my cousin for one night too, when we're going through Minneapolis. Buy something especially cheap and hilarious for her, she will love it.

ALSO- Jodie and I are going to need a place to stay in Chicago on the 22nd. Any takers?
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: De_El on 05 Jul 2009, 10:58
I could probably do that.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: mberan42 on 06 Jul 2009, 14:05
ALSO- Jodie and I are going to need a place to stay in Chicago on the 22nd. Any takers?

/cough
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Liz on 06 Jul 2009, 15:04
I will keep both of you in mind! Once we figure out exactly what we'll be doing when we are hanging out with Dicky, I'll figure out which place is more convenient. I don't want to have to drive around Chicago at night if I don't have to- getting lost is not fun!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: calenlass on 07 Jul 2009, 01:03
I am going to vote for Chinatown. My best chopsticks came in a 6-pack for $3 a few years ago from a wee little shop near the eL station.

Also I realise we will be in Chicago proper, but I just wanted to put out there that Evanston is packed with excellent restaurants that are not anywhere near as expensive as those in downtown. That is just my two cents. I don't know much about things south of Lakeshore Drive, anyway, though.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: ackblom12 on 10 Jul 2009, 21:21
Hey Folks, I went ahead and posted a topic in the facebook site since I think it is probably a good idea to start thinking about some of the outings and who is and isn't planning on going to them. I mean, I don't want this trip planned down to a tight schedule cause I think that is a terrible thing for a vacation, but probably not a bad idea to get head counts for some of the bigger things.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: calenlass on 13 Jul 2009, 15:14
I am also putting together a list of things we should make that would be delicious and also tasty things our foreign terrorists friends have never had before.

So far on the list are:

-banana pudding (http://www.texascooking.com/features/apr99bestbanana.htm)
-key lime pie (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Key_lime_pie)
-macaroons (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Macaroon)
-banana bread (http://terrifictravelideas.com/convenientideasllc/images/BananaBread.jpg)
-apple pie (http://goldenstate.files.wordpress.com/2009/03/800px-apple_pie.jpg)
-fried chicken (http://www.meadowvale.co.uk/Newsletters/October07/Meadow%20Vale%20Southern%20Fried%20Chicken.jpg)
-chicken fried steak (http://calorielab.com/news/wp-images/post-images/chicken-fried-steak-huge)
-biscuits (http://lh4.google.com/JoshAndJoanna/R0mB5Kj2mII/AAAAAAAAG78/jTO8ex7jNvA/s400/DSC_0179.JPG) and gravy (http://www.ehow.com/how_4475596_make-white-gravy.html)
-pumpkin pie (http://www.rangebuzz.com/content/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/pumpkin-pie.jpg)


Mai has suggested brownies and I am all for it, but how gung-ho would you be for brownies at the expense of something else? Please telll meeee


I am probably going to bring with me:
-chocolate chip cookies (my mom's secret recipe)
-peanut brittle
-Jiff peanut butter

Mai is bringing with her:
-chocolate chip oatmeal cookies




I am all about the Southern cooking, see, so if there are other things that we should make (and not buy, so like not a chicago dog or pizza) please say something!

If you want to add anything to the list, or have suggestions (possibly pulled from this list (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:American_desserts) or this one (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:American_cuisine)) let me know! A PM would be more organised, but you can reply here too and I will get it.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Ozymandias on 13 Jul 2009, 15:54
I strongly urge that some sort of Southwestern cuisine be put onto the list. New Mexican (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_mexican_cuisine) or Tex-mex (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tex-Mex_cuisine), I don't really care (New Mexican is better) but something.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Metope on 13 Jul 2009, 16:13
I have tasted a few of those (coconut macaroons are actually a very common thing during Christmas around here), but I am all for having them again + all of the other stuff on that list. Gonna leave America so fat and happy.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: KvP on 13 Jul 2009, 16:19
Well if we need cheap foods, if we have a big pot (multiple big pots are optimal) and a bit of time I can make vegetarian chili. Super cheap, feeds 4 or 5 people on about $7 worth of ingredients, and the cost decreases the more times you make it because several of the ingredients are not wholly used in one cooking session. I'll make sure to bone up on making it in the weeks leading up to the 'con so I'll know what's good when we get there.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: calenlass on 13 Jul 2009, 16:46
I strongly urge that some sort of Southwestern cuisine be put onto the list. New Mexican (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_mexican_cuisine) or Tex-mex (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tex-Mex_cuisine), I don't really care (New Mexican is better) but something.

We can just go out for mexican, see.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: KvP on 13 Jul 2009, 16:57
Does Chicago have good New Mexican places? There are cities with great ethnic food places and cities with none. Pretty sure NYC, for example, has a reputation as a city without much in the way of Mexican cuisine.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: calenlass on 13 Jul 2009, 17:14
Fair enough. I have no idea, actually. I know they have amazing vietnamese and szechuan places, though. Hnnnnggg
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Boro_Bandito on 13 Jul 2009, 17:39
I strongly urge that some sort of Southwestern cuisine be put onto the list. New Mexican (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_mexican_cuisine) or Tex-mex (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tex-Mex_cuisine), I don't really care (New Mexican is better) but something.

popping in to your thread to say "FIGHT YOU". Not saying New Mex cuisine isn't delicious but goddamnit that's heresy.

Right so I was watching Anthony Bourdain's No Reservations, and I now challenge you guys to track down and photograph one of you eating a mother-in-law on a bun. I can't remember the name of the place that sells it and google is currently failing me but its a tamale on a hot god bun. The place that sells it I believe has a lot of other stuff, some items even stranger.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: KvP on 13 Jul 2009, 18:00
ts a tamale on a hot god bun
I'd like to see that.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Boro_Bandito on 13 Jul 2009, 18:02
Erm, whoops.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: jodizzle on 13 Jul 2009, 18:03
Guys this time next week I will be in America! CRAZY
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Liz on 13 Jul 2009, 18:04
Guys this time next week I will be getting ready to go to the airport to pick up Jodie! eeeeeeeeeeeee
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: KvP on 13 Jul 2009, 18:05
Don't feed the bears!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Johnny C on 13 Jul 2009, 18:48
i just want to go to hot doug's and kuma's and a place with deep dish. also "who will help me make cupcakes? and what will make me help cupcakes?" -john "scott" walker, 2009
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: tinysmidgen on 13 Jul 2009, 18:51
Well, um, if it's still happening, I'd like to go. I'm not sure how many of you would actualy want to spend a weekend in a house with me, or rather, would want me in the house, but if I can convince my parents (they're domineering and controlling like that) count me in. I guess that would mean I'm a maybe for house/attending.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Liz on 13 Jul 2009, 19:01
Hon, we don't even know your name, much less anything about you aside from the fact that you really want to save money to move to Massachusetts. You might be a good dude, but these meet-ups are generally for people that have been posting a while- people that know each other quite well. You're a bit new to come to this- it's not so much a forum meet-up as it is a gathering of friends.

Besides, if you are trying to save money, spending a long weekend on vacation is not the smartest thing to do.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: tinysmidgen on 13 Jul 2009, 19:13
kay =\
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Vendetagainst on 13 Jul 2009, 19:14
But if you stay with us long enough you will probably be welcome to the next meetup! We just want to get to know you better.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Liz on 13 Jul 2009, 19:18
Soon enough = next summer. Or possibly this winter. Keep posting and getting to know people, and who knows?!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: tinysmidgen on 13 Jul 2009, 19:31
Lol, I should probably limit my number of new topics then, eh? The lists will get to people and then you'll all be "Oh sure you can come, we'd love[/] to have you." *everyone kills Tyler while he's sleeping* yup. Thank you though :) I'll be sure to stick around, or at least try to, and not be too much of a pain.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: nobo on 13 Jul 2009, 19:45
I don't think you'd be too hard to kill while you were awake
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: tinysmidgen on 13 Jul 2009, 19:52
By a mob of angry forumites, no I don't believe I would be able to put up much of a fight. I may, however, be able to take you out one by one with my leet ninja skillz.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Lines on 13 Jul 2009, 20:33
Considering Tyler's track record, I think he's more likely to kill than be killed. Or at least attempted killings. Or is your name Tyler as well?

I should probably buy bus tickets, huh. I will do that when I get my paycheck later this week. Also, have we figured out how much each person in the house owes? I seriously need to get my budget on. My car insurance bill kind of kicked my ass.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: BrittanyMarie on 13 Jul 2009, 21:39
Guys this time next week I will be in America! CRAZY

Jodie, Liz has something she "forgot" to mention to you. (Actually, you've probably already seen this buttttt)
This is the real reason she wanted you to come here (http://www.hulu.com/watch/77689/the-tonight-show-with-conan-obrien-north-dakotas-budget-surplus).
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: iamiam on 13 Jul 2009, 22:08
Mai has suggested brownies and I am all for it, but how gung-ho would you be for brownies at the expense of something else? Please telll meeee

uh dude, if it is going to have to come down to decision-making i can bring those too!  or at the very least i can bring the brownie mix because i have a giant box of it.

i just want to go to hot doug's and kuma's and a place with deep dish. also "who will help me make cupcakes? and what will make me help cupcakes?" -john "scott" walker, 2009

helloooo?  didn't we already decide that i am your cupcake making partner-in-crime? ):
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: De_El on 13 Jul 2009, 22:22
Does Chicago have good New Mexican places? There are cities with great ethnic food places and cities with none. Pretty sure NYC, for example, has a reputation as a city without much in the way of Mexican cuisine.

Popping in to say Chicago has shittons of Mexicans. I'm one of them, or at least half of one. I don't know specifically about "New Mexican" or "Tex-Mex" cuisine (my family regards Tex-Mex with scorn, never had it myself), as the food I regard as Mexican food is either common throughout Mexico or found particularly in Nuevo León and that sort of region. But there are multiple neighborhoods with significant Mexican communities, and plenty of places to find that sort of food to dine on or make yourself. Chicago is one of the largest Mexican communities in the United States.

Chicago is also the biggest Polish community outside of Warsaw, so if anybody wants Polish food or pastries there is plenty of that to be had. Other significant ethnic (and thus ethnic food) contingents are Greek, Italian, German, Indian, Chinese, Puerto Rican, and a smattering of Eastern Europeans. Lithuania and Ukraine I know for sure but I know plenty of people of Romanian descent. I just don't know where the major Romanian population center in Chicago might be.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Alex C on 13 Jul 2009, 23:12
or make yourself.

Another one of the many reasons that it sucks that I'm not going. Provided I could get my hands on a kitchen I could have forced a few of you guys to help me make tamales. They're a pain in the ass but the upshot is that the truly labor intensive part doesn't take any fancy equipment and can be safely done by a small child. 3 or 4 adults can bang out a ridiculous quantity of them very cheaply.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Zingoleb on 14 Jul 2009, 01:08
Well, um, if it's still happening, I'd like to go. I'm not sure how many of you would actualy want to spend a weekend in a house with me, or rather, would want me in the house, but if I can convince my parents (they're domineering and controlling like that) count me in. I guess that would mean I'm a maybe for house/attending.

Tyler, you made the same mistake as me, don't feel bad.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: nobo on 14 Jul 2009, 04:17

Chicago is also the biggest Polish community outside of Warsaw, so if anybody wants Polish food or pastries there is plenty of that to be had. O

If you guys are interested in trying polish food, this is a relatively inexpensive polish buffet http://www.staropolskaofbelmont.com/
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: calenlass on 14 Jul 2009, 10:34
We are doing American food. Or, well, North American continent food.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Alex C on 14 Jul 2009, 10:47
A lot of Polish foods were developed here though. Keep in mind that even chicken fried steak was most likely first made by Austrian immigrants. Wisconsin, Illinois and to a lesser extent, Minnesota are just swimming in Polish foods.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Vendetagainst on 14 Jul 2009, 11:48
Does Chicago have good New Mexican places? There are cities with great ethnic food places and cities with none. Pretty sure NYC, for example, has a reputation as a city without much in the way of Mexican cuisine.

I'm not sure what New Mexican is, is that food from New Mexico? Because that's what Wikipedia is telling me. Anyway, my favorite Mexican restaurant: <A HREF="http://www.nuevoleonrestaurant.com>Nuevo Leon[/url]
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: De_El on 14 Jul 2009, 12:31
Yeah, that one's pretty good.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Vendetagainst on 14 Jul 2009, 12:48
They have really good mole. You're not likely to go wrong anywhere in Pilsen, really.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: De_El on 14 Jul 2009, 12:51
Definitely. Pilsen, Little Village, South Chicago are full of decent to good Mexican restaurants.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: mberan42 on 14 Jul 2009, 13:59
Started this post before I saw the above four, so I guess I'm just verifying what they say.

Does Chicago have good New Mexican places?

My neighborhood (Pilsen) has all the Mexican food you could eat, all at an extremely reasonable price. (And all places are BYOB.) In fact, Nuevo Leone is the first place I take guests - it's a 5 minute walk from my condo and is ridiculously good.

i just want to go to hot doug's and kuma's and a place with deep dish. also "who will help me make cupcakes? and what will make me help cupcakes?" -john "scott" walker, 2009

Be prepared to wait for 1-2 hours at Hot Doug’s. Dunno about Kuma’s. Giordano’s, Uno’s or Due’s are good places to go for deep dish.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: ackblom12 on 14 Jul 2009, 14:14
Kat has agreed to make her Super Pecan Pie at Chicago. Delicious.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Alex C on 14 Jul 2009, 15:10
I have a hard time parsing the idea of bad mole.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: E. Spaceman on 14 Jul 2009, 15:16
Oh trust me, it is very easy to have bad mole, in fact most mole is bad mole.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: jodizzle on 14 Jul 2009, 19:02
Guys I just want to say I am totes not cooking anything.  I am coming on holiday to eat food I have not cooked, not cook in another country.


I will however eat many things you put in front of me, and will help pay for ingredients etc obviously.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Lines on 14 Jul 2009, 19:12
I can help bake things! I can help bake not special, but still very delicious things! I can also help cook and/or grill things.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: jhocking on 14 Jul 2009, 19:26
I don't know much about things south of Lakeshore Drive

You mean Indiana?  Lakeshore Drive runs north/south the entire length of the city.

I'm not sure what New Mexican is, is that food from New Mexico? Because that's what Wikipedia is telling me. Anyway, my favorite Mexican restaurant: <A HREF="http://www.nuevoleonrestaurant.com>Nuevo Leon[/url]

I haven't yet tried it but just down the street from my new apartment is a Mexican place that multiple people have raved to me about:
http://www.yelp.com/biz/mixteco-grill-chicago
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: calenlass on 15 Jul 2009, 09:09
No, I meant the bit where it runs along Lake Michigan.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: De_El on 15 Jul 2009, 10:15
I figure she just means south of Hyde Park.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Barmymoo on 15 Jul 2009, 13:29
Zingoleb and Tinytyler (that is your new name, to avoid confusion), please don't feel offended. When I first started thinking about going to this I had been here ages and still felt kind of new. I put out a couple of feelers and met up with some people near to where I lived and it was all very gradual. The problem isn't personal at all, it's the trust thing. Anyone can be anyone on the internet and we need to know for certain that the people who are coming are people we can trust. Primarily that happens through them having been met by other people. It's all very cliquey and maybe a little unequal but the facelessness of the internet means you have to be absolutely sure of who you're talking to, and that you actually want to spend two weeks with them (or however long, we're not all spending two weeks together on this one). Basically, don't take it too personally :)

And after that little lecture OH MY GOODNESS YOU GUYS I AM GOING TO ANOTHER CONTINENT NEXT WEEK.

It isn't possible for me to express how excited I am about this.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Zingoleb on 15 Jul 2009, 21:55
Hey, I wasn't offended at all. I understand perfectly where y'all are coming from.

My name is Edward, by the way.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Tyler on 16 Jul 2009, 14:54
Cullen?
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: jodizzle on 16 Jul 2009, 23:48
HEY GUYS I FLY TO AMERICA IN THREE DAYS OH MAN CRAZY AHHHHHHH
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Zingoleb on 17 Jul 2009, 01:42
Cullen?

Oh man fuck you SO HARD

That is the reason why I am seriously considering going by my middle name from now on PERMANENTLY

Fuck that book. Fuck that movie.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Eris on 17 Jul 2009, 01:57
But there's no one called Ashley Cullen in the books!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Liz on 17 Jul 2009, 10:49
HEY GUYS I FLY TO AMERICA IN THREE DAYS OH MAN CRAZY AHHHHHHH

EEEEEEEEEEEEE

(Also we are going to be getting up super-early on Wednesday morning when we stay at my cousins' place. I hope you are ready for it.)
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Ozymandias on 17 Jul 2009, 11:36
-biscuits (http://lh4.google.com/JoshAndJoanna/R0mB5Kj2mII/AAAAAAAAG78/jTO8ex7jNvA/s400/DSC_0179.JPG) and gravy (http://www.ehow.com/how_4475596_make-white-gravy.html)

It occurs to me, as I shovel some of this into my mouth, how important it is that this gets made, since this is a concept that non-Americans have a really really hard time with.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Lines on 17 Jul 2009, 12:01
Some Americans, like me, have a hard time with it. Same with grits and goetta. Some breakfast foods make no sense. But I can make pancakes! Oh there will be pancakes.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: calenlass on 17 Jul 2009, 12:49
Grits actually makes plenty of sense, because originally it was ground-up corn cobs back when people didn't want to waste anything, and now it's a tradition (and also not made of corn cobs anymore, but just regular corn). But I know what you mean, and I don't really care for grits either.

But I don't understand how you can no like biscuits and gravy, unless you haven't tried it and you just think it looks nasty.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: jhocking on 17 Jul 2009, 17:53
I haven't yet tried it but just down the street from my new apartment is a Mexican place that multiple people have raved to me about:
http://www.yelp.com/biz/mixteco-grill-chicago

In case anyone was thinking of my suggestion for Mexican food, I just went tonight and it's pretty overrated.  Good food no doubt, but not nearly as good as those reviewers make it sound, and not worth making a trek for.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Lines on 17 Jul 2009, 20:40
I love biscuits, I love sausage, I hate gravy. It's one of those things I've never been able to stand. (I was that super picky kid and now am a semi-picky older kid.)
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: est on 17 Jul 2009, 21:03
biscuits! (http://www.ifood.tv/files/Anzac%20Biscuit.jpg)

gravy! (http://www.bbcgoodfood.com/content/knowhow/glossary/gravy/image.jpg)

You guys are bloody odd.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Johnny C on 17 Jul 2009, 21:06
once again ben betrays his heritage as the descendant of dudes who spent a lot of time on the ocean eating shitty food
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Johnny C on 17 Jul 2009, 21:06
they were being punished, you see
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Lines on 17 Jul 2009, 21:08
Then what do you yonder southerners call these?

(http://lh6.ggpht.com/shanebenedict2/SJ4n63iIeDI/AAAAAAAACZk/9MDzcjl8ENA/s400/Biscuit1.jpg)
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: est on 17 Jul 2009, 21:10
They look like scones.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: est on 17 Jul 2009, 21:14
After a quick investigation it seems that you guys do indeed call plain scones biscuits for some reason.  Odd!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: est on 17 Jul 2009, 21:16
Oh god, now I want some scones, fuck you guyses.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Lines on 17 Jul 2009, 21:18
Yeah, scones tend to be a bit harder and have stuff in them.

Man, I want biscuits with honey now. Hmm. Will have to wait til morning...
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Johnny C on 17 Jul 2009, 21:27
Yeah, scones tend to be a bit harder and have stuff in them.

ben will never know the joy of a light fluffy biscuit, freshly baked and slowly melting the pat of butter placed on its gently steaming surface
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: est on 17 Jul 2009, 22:39
Sure I will, only I'll be calling it a scone.  Scones are not always hard here.  There is quite a range.  Han and I just bought some fresh scones from the bakery up the road.  We're gonna have them with thickened cream and strawberry jam.  Nom nom nom.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: jodizzle on 18 Jul 2009, 00:10
Ben I love you.

guys I will not be calling those biscuits.  I will be calling them scones, just to spite you.


I am all packed!  Brisbane tomorrow, airport Monday!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: jhocking on 18 Jul 2009, 08:46
Someone better alert border patrol.  Allowing that woman into this country could be catastrophic.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Barmymoo on 18 Jul 2009, 14:07
Sckones or scooownes? It's a very important question (don't get Tommy started on it).
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Ozymandias on 18 Jul 2009, 14:43
This conversation underscores the necessity of biscuits and gravy.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Lines on 18 Jul 2009, 16:13
BISCUITS! PANCAKES! FRENCH TOAST! WAFFLES IF I FEEL LIKE BRINGING MY WAFFLE MAKER.

BREAKFAST FOOOOOOOOOOOOOODS.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: David_Dovey on 22 Jul 2009, 20:56
Sckones or scooownes? It's a very important question (don't get Tommy started on it).

Skons.

I think maybe some Australians say Sckones but for the most part skons.
Quote
Gravy (http://www.ehow.com/how_4475596_make-white-gravy.html)

That stuff looks like throw-up, guys.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: BrittanyMarie on 22 Jul 2009, 21:54
UPDATE: Jodie did eat biscuits and gravy. And a big slice of pie.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: jodizzle on 23 Jul 2009, 08:23
'Biscuits and gravy' (also known as Scones and Creamy Sauce) is nothing special.  but banana cream pie is amazing.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Jace on 23 Jul 2009, 09:00
Tinytyler, they did a Boston meetup in January, if you are planning to move to Mass, there are at least 4 forumites that are in that area who can verify you. I still need to be verified by one of the southwest forumites. I SWEAR I'M NOT AN ALT ACCOUNT!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Ozymandias on 23 Jul 2009, 10:15
'Biscuits and gravy' (also known as Scones and Creamy Sauce) is nothing special.  but banana cream pie is amazing.

YOU'RE SATAN.  :x
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Alex C on 23 Jul 2009, 10:17
Well, apparently Satan is right.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Lines on 23 Jul 2009, 13:08
Satan is more right than Jordan. HOW ABOUT THAT.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Liz on 24 Jul 2009, 06:15
GUYS.

Right now I am in a tiny adorable house in Indiana and there are eight people here total. We have Americans and English types and a Scotsman that calls himself English and a tiny Australian and two silly Norwegians and everyone is FABULOUS.

Huzzah!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: David_Dovey on 24 Jul 2009, 06:32
HELLO NORTH AMERICAN INTERNET HOUSE. HELLO.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: jodizzle on 24 Jul 2009, 13:57
Tiny Australian misses sleeping very very very badly.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Ozymandias on 24 Jul 2009, 14:03
No one sleeps in America.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Jace on 24 Jul 2009, 14:22
That is why shit gets done.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Lines on 24 Jul 2009, 14:32
We sleep. Sometimes.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Johnny C on 24 Jul 2009, 17:07
No one sleeps in America.

Finally, Craig Finn reveals himself as a member of this forum.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Liz on 24 Jul 2009, 21:08
(This is May) We are totally in America! We went to Walmart and I think you could pretty much fit the whole of my town in there. Jodie spent $50 on candy.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: E. Spaceman on 25 Jul 2009, 06:55
Going into a Walmart is such a harrowing experience.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: valley_parade on 25 Jul 2009, 09:02
Tinytyler, they did a Boston meetup in January, if you are planning to move to Mass, there are at least 4 forumites that are in that area who can verify you. I still need to be verified by one of the southwest forumites. I SWEAR I'M NOT AN ALT ACCOUNT!

Oh dude, we're all fake too. Those pictures from Bostoncon? We trailed strangers all day and took photos of them.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Lines on 25 Jul 2009, 10:58
Yeah, that girl whose picture I've been posting is some girl I've been stalking for the past few years. I've gotten several restraining orders because of it, but then I just steal from her Facebook. Oh the wonders of the internet.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: David_Dovey on 25 Jul 2009, 22:39
My pictures actually are of me but I'm wearing a human skin mask.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: KvP on 25 Jul 2009, 23:51
I am going to be bringing Arkham Horror -
(http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/9/9d/Arkham_Horror_2005_full_game.jpg)
We'll have to play it at least once, but I'm guessing that will be hard to do if my suspicions of critical-mass levels of ADD pan out.

(Also that image is of the original board game. I have 3 board expansions plus 2 card-only expansions. It's easier than it looks I swear.)
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Vendetagainst on 26 Jul 2009, 01:11
That looks like a lot of fun. Well. I mean, it looks interesting, I am struggling to fathom how you actually keep up with it, let alone play it. Still though, it looks like something I would enjoy.

Oh, also. I have no idea when or where any of Chicagocon is taking place, is there anywhere I should look if I want to join the reindeer games?
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Liz on 26 Jul 2009, 06:34
We don't really know where anything is happening. We should really set up a place for people to get together when they arrive on Friday since we can't get into the house until later in the day.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Lines on 26 Jul 2009, 06:55
I would play that game!

When are other people arriving? Also, who's arriving where? I'll be at Union Station and I know some are flying in, so where's a good place to meet? Navy Pier, maybe? I think I should only have a backpack and maybe one other bag, so I think I may see if I can leave it in a locker at the station or something.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: valley_parade on 26 Jul 2009, 07:24
Guys, if you were having this in early October, I'd have come. I'd have come, and I'd have dragged you all to see Flatfoot 56 and Cock Sparrer.

(http://i156.photobucket.com/albums/t31/Kingkent_2007/22.jpg)

 :cry:
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: jhocking on 26 Jul 2009, 09:00
Hey let me know when you guys are gonna be downtown some afternoon.  I can't hangout long what with being an old fart and having a job and shit, but it'd be cool to meetup for lunch next weekend or something.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: David_Dovey on 26 Jul 2009, 09:54
Guys, if you were having this in early October, I'd have come. I'd have come, and I'd have dragged you all to see Flatfoot 56 and Cock Sparrer.

originally I saw the name Teen Idols and thought Teen Idles (http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki?search=Teen+Idles) and damn-near shat myself.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: ackblom12 on 26 Jul 2009, 20:43
Ok,just as confirmation, Tyler will not be showing and me and Kat will likely be there around 6pm - 7pm. We were originally thinking we'd show mid morning, maybe early afternoon until we realized we'd just be exhausted and not have any sleep at all if we did that, so evening showing for us.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: KvP on 26 Jul 2009, 22:33
Johnny and Emilio and I will all be there on the evening of the 30th.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: calenlass on 27 Jul 2009, 02:57
Tyler will not be showing


!


noooooooooo


fuck you too man, I didn't wanna be friends anyway
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: calenlass on 27 Jul 2009, 03:03
Also yes it would be nice to have a place to meet up when we get there, because I am flying into O'Hare and need to know where to take the train.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: LiterSize on 27 Jul 2009, 14:34
I am in Chicago now as well... mainly because I live here (Well, in a nearby suburb).
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Johnny C on 27 Jul 2009, 17:38
It's hot all day and all night. Don't bother packing anything remotely heavy.

How will this affect Prom Night?

p.s. inevitable b-movie horror joke pre-emptive "ha ha very funny"
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Lines on 28 Jul 2009, 18:21
So I will be arriving at 9:30am Saturday @ Union Station and leaving at 1:30pm Monday from the Greyhound station. Should I make my way to the house or would people like to meet up for breakfast?

I am taking the train up! I am excited!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: iamiam on 29 Jul 2009, 14:53
just so you guys know, it's not that hot here.  it's actually absolutely beautiful outside.  in other news, tommy is a pansy.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Joseph on 29 Jul 2009, 15:11
Did he refuse to start a bar fight over your honour?
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: jhocking on 29 Jul 2009, 16:15
No tommy that is not why you are a pansy. You are a pansy because you're fucking weak.

In other news, no it is not hot. In fact, for the past week it's been overcast much of the time.

In his defense, in Scotland the noteworthy days are when it isn't overcast.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: E. Spaceman on 29 Jul 2009, 17:13
 The internet tells me that for the next few days the temperature in chicago will be between 79F/24C (which is just a bit too hot)  and 83F/27C (please no).
For reference, right now Mexico City is 75.1 °F  / 23.9 °C and it is uncomfortable to walk outside.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: pen on 29 Jul 2009, 17:16
That is silly.  85 F is perfect with a light breeze.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: squawk on 29 Jul 2009, 17:41
Jesus christ don't ever come to the desert then you pansy city folk

(101 F even right now get me out of here)
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: calenlass on 29 Jul 2009, 17:47
Em have you never been to like a Caribbean island or anything? Because most of them have a static temperature of like 83ºF / 28ºC every day when it isn't raining, and honestly you get used to it pretty quickly. Cozumel and Cancún are the same. You have been there once, right?
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: KvP on 29 Jul 2009, 17:52
Humidity must be taken into account you goons!

Anyway some 80's weather would be nice. 'Round here it's been in the mid 90's all Summer.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Johnny C on 29 Jul 2009, 17:53
I was born on a 40˚C day! Tommy and Mili are you bigger babies than literal babies?
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: calenlass on 29 Jul 2009, 18:07
Humidity must be taken into account you goons!

Well, duh. I live in Atlanta. The only place with more miserable summers is either the Louisiana bayou (on account of mosquitoes and alligators) or Charleston, South Carolina.



The Caribbean is pretty humid I guess but like I said, you get used to it pretty quickly because it doesn't change at all.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Johnny C on 29 Jul 2009, 18:41
So my flight gets in at 12:45 in the afternoon tomorrow and I just realized I have literally no idea how I'm getting away from the airport or even where I'm going to! Oops.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: E. Spaceman on 29 Jul 2009, 19:31
Em have you never been to like a Caribbean island or anything? Because most of them have a static temperature of like 83ºF / 28ºC every day when it isn't raining, and honestly you get used to it pretty quickly. Cozumel and Cancún are the same. You have been there once, right?


Why would I go to a caribbean island. They are all hot and muggy and everyone listens to reggae or guidocore and there are tourist-bros and ughhhhhhhh I want to die.

I went to cancun once and had a lot of fun whenever I was inside, mind you i was also like 10 at the time.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Lines on 29 Jul 2009, 19:44
I'm going to say that it may or may not be as humid as it is here (I'm in a valley, but both cities are right on water), so if it's between 75-85, no, that really isn't that hot. When it's pushing 90F, then yes, we have problems. Wear lightweight clothing and you should be fine. And this is coming from someone who doesn't like heat.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: tania on 29 Jul 2009, 19:44
i went to a caribbean island once and everybody was topless so at first it was all "aayyy" but then after a couple of days it became apparent just how many touristy ladies with terrifying and very often gravity-defying breast implants there were all over the place and it quickly became more like a "yiiigg" sort of deal
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: RedLion on 29 Jul 2009, 20:17
It's actually been unseasonably cool here (I live 1.5 hrs northwest of Chicago, in Wisconsin, right near the border, and would be there, but I'm going on a road trip out west with a bunch of friends)...this really isn't hot. Most summers it gets up to above 90s (32oC) at the end of july/early august..course, then it gets down to -10  (-23oC) in the winter.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Johnny C on 29 Jul 2009, 20:47
i went to a caribbean island once and got lost on it, i almost died
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Liz on 29 Jul 2009, 20:51
Great story. Lovely phrasing, fantastic character development. 4/5 stars, would read again.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Johnny C on 29 Jul 2009, 20:53
mock me if you will but i literally passed out on the side of a mountain
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: nobo on 29 Jul 2009, 21:02
the plot thickens!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Liz on 29 Jul 2009, 21:19
The unexpected plot twist ruined the tone of the story. I would like to request a re-write.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Joseph on 30 Jul 2009, 00:33
I approve of the experimental absence of capitals and periods.  You should apply for a Guggenheim grant.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Jace on 30 Jul 2009, 00:40
Gets up to 50C/122F where I live. Ya'll have no room to complain. No room. Anything under 3 digits is go outside and play sports weather.

We look forward to the overcast days.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: calenlass on 30 Jul 2009, 01:19
Man Em why else would you go to the caribbean?  REEFS



Johnny take the eL. You are coming from O'Hare, right? Take the blue line in toward downtown and then change at Washington for the red line to go north or probably Lake or something for the other lines? I don't remember exactly. I guess I could look it up but meh.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: jhocking on 30 Jul 2009, 05:11
The station to change from Blue line to Red line is Jackson but otherwise yeah that's the way to go.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: calenlass on 30 Jul 2009, 08:05
There's like three different places. I always used to take Washington to catch the red line up to Howard and then to Linden, I think.


Edit: Hey so I looked it up. Washington doesn't have a changeover place to the red line anymore! Those fuckers changed it on me. Fuckers. I remember it being under construction but why would they do that? Makes no sense.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: allison on 30 Jul 2009, 08:13
Tommy have you ever considered being a weatherman
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Cernunnos on 30 Jul 2009, 08:46
Okay which of you eedcon fuckers gave me the swine aids

blugh

(note: i do not have the swine flu now, it is just a little stomach thing but still)
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Liz on 30 Jul 2009, 08:52
Jon you probably shouldn't have made out with so many random women while you were here. I told you it was a bad idea but nooooooo you wouldn't listen.

(Also it wasn't me. And nobody else here seems sick.)
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Cernunnos on 30 Jul 2009, 08:59
well, that's good. Wasn't May a little blugh on cedar point day? S'good that she's feeling better. You know, it was probably that nasty burger I had at johnny rockets. That place kinda sucked.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: dennis on 30 Jul 2009, 12:11
I may see you there, Tommy.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Johnny C on 30 Jul 2009, 14:06
Posting from Dennis' while he is ~doin work~ and I gots the following to say.

Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Johnny C on 30 Jul 2009, 14:09
dennis lives less than a mile from kuma's corner
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Ozymandias on 31 Jul 2009, 07:48
Alright so when are people meeting up and jazz?

Totally confused.

Going to the pier now and hopefully you jerks will tell me stuff when I get back to check.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Lines on 31 Jul 2009, 09:07
I just hope you guys meet me at Union Terminal tomorrow morning...
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: LiterSize on 31 Jul 2009, 10:07
I have been hoping to find Calenlass when she gets in, but otherwise I will just have to try and catch you fine folk tomorrow!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: jhocking on 31 Jul 2009, 16:07
Someone sent me a couple texts today but I'm not sure who it is.  Anyway, I can probably hang out for a couple hours tomorrow.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Liz on 31 Jul 2009, 16:11
Joe it was meeee you silly man. You should come hang out tonight! But I suppose tomorrow works as well, we haven't really made any plans for Saturday yet though...
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: jhocking on 31 Jul 2009, 16:24
I was planning to stop by the Apple store tomorrow to pick up an iPhone (I've been putting off doing so for some reason, and yesterday I realized there's no good reason I haven't gotten one already) so I figure while I'm about and downtown might be a good time to meetup.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Professor Snuggles on 31 Jul 2009, 19:26
OKAY SO WHO HAS FUCCED WHO SO FAR?

Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Liz on 31 Jul 2009, 21:08
ALL OF US.

GIANT ORGY.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: LiterSize on 01 Aug 2009, 10:56
So, what IS the plan for today?  I believe thar be rain storms afoot?  Is there plans for hangouts tonight?
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: KvP on 01 Aug 2009, 19:13
We just got home, there's still half the crew out on food duty. Tired as fuck right now, don't know what the plan is.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: calenlass on 01 Aug 2009, 23:38
Brian we are having a fancy dress party Sunday night and going to Grant Park and stuff in the afternoon.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: LiterSize on 02 Aug 2009, 01:46
Sadly I will be out in Naperville this afternoon.  No telling when I will get back though, so if anything have extra fun for me!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Slick on 02 Aug 2009, 03:52
fuck you guys having a party while I've got exams
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Slick on 02 Aug 2009, 03:53
I wanted to meet me some norwegians & australians.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: jhocking on 02 Aug 2009, 12:35
It's a good thing Katie's number from when she visited Chicago years ago still works, Liz's phone seems to be out of commission.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Joseph on 03 Aug 2009, 01:55
You better have gotten Liz a corsage.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Liz on 03 Aug 2009, 07:35
Nope.

He got drunk instead.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: jhocking on 03 Aug 2009, 09:18
Now I feel bad about not hanging out last night.  I didn't think I could because I had work the next day, but once at the office people registered surprise because I wasn't coming in today and would be in tomorrow.  doh

Anyway, this means that I could hang out during the day with anyone still in Chicago (hint hint johnny.)
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Liz on 03 Aug 2009, 16:38
the gift that keeps on giving?

Yeah, it gave the toilet a few gifts over the course of the night. And morning.

(Poor Jens.)
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Johnny C on 04 Aug 2009, 08:06
jens owns kris owns liz owns oli owns linds owns stephen owns kat owns alex owns tommy owns mai owns katie owns jodie owns may owns emilio owns john owns matt owns dennis owns joe owns

chicago owns
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Johnny C on 04 Aug 2009, 08:07
emilio and i had religious experiences at kuma's and hot doug's. we found god between pretzel rolls and encased in sausage tubing.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: De_El on 04 Aug 2009, 08:55
So I remembered too late that for some reason it takes a millenium for texts from me to reach Tommy's phone, and he's the only person whose number I have of those still in Chicago. I sure hope someone checks the internet, or else I won't get to see people today before they leave.

Edit: Okay, problem solved. Also I totally forgot but I have Johnny's number too, so whatever.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Lines on 04 Aug 2009, 08:58
Emilio, I still have your book and planner, so pm me your address and I'll send those to you along with more candy.

Also here's a sum up of my trip home: Greyhound stations are depressing, my first leg was overbooked so people were standing, and the second leg of the trip had two noisy ass kids, one of which puked in her lap. Great trip! Really great! (Everything else was pretty great. I am at work now and it's raining and blah.)
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: dennis on 04 Aug 2009, 16:09
Since I don't go into the chat much, would anyone be willing to hook me up with pics from the weekend?
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Liz on 04 Aug 2009, 16:49
Become my friend on Facebook and you can see mine!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Lines on 04 Aug 2009, 19:22
Emilio - I can UPS your stuff and have it to you before you leave Chicago!

Also, I just uploaded photos, but they were all from when a few of us were at the zoo and Millenium Park. (Mostly just because Tommy wasn't there to take all the photos.)
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: David_Dovey on 04 Aug 2009, 19:25
jens owns kris owns liz owns oli owns linds owns stephen owns kat owns alex owns tommy owns mai owns katie owns jodie owns may owns emilio owns john owns matt owns dennis owns joe owns

chicago owns

See the lack of pounctuation made me think you were making a joke about how the people own the other people. I do not know if this was intentional but anyway the order you wrote the names in makes it pretty believable.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Liz on 04 Aug 2009, 19:27
Pounctuation!

I wish I owned an Oli, everyone needs their own Scottish Jesus impersonator.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: David_Dovey on 04 Aug 2009, 19:28
Pounctuation!

I wish I owned an Oli, everyone needs their own Scottish Andrew WK impersonator.

UH HUH UH HUH SAY WHAT SAY WHAT
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Lines on 04 Aug 2009, 19:43
Well hey Liz since you own Oli and Oli owns me, can we live in Scotland? Pleeeeeeeeeeeeease?
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Ozymandias on 04 Aug 2009, 19:43
jens owns kris owns liz owns oli owns linds owns stephen owns kat owns alex owns tommy owns mai owns katie owns jodie owns may owns emilio owns john owns matt owns dennis owns joe owns

chicago owns

I see what you did there.

Dick.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Liz on 04 Aug 2009, 19:47
Jordan does not own anything.

HA
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: David_Dovey on 04 Aug 2009, 19:48
JORDAN IS FINANCIALLY INSOLVENT PASS IT ON
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Johnny C on 05 Aug 2009, 00:51
jordan owns amanda owns
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Ozymandias on 05 Aug 2009, 09:34
No fuck you Johnny the damage is done.

We are enemy.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: ClaudiaC on 05 Aug 2009, 09:46
Hmmm...I guess nobody owns Oli, as such. But if someone were to own him...ahem...ahem. He's back soon. Yay.   :lol:
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: öde on 07 Aug 2009, 05:02
I'm meant to be receiving a tiny Australian tomorrow but no-one's heard anything from her since she left the usa and I am panicking a little bit.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: Lines on 07 Aug 2009, 13:12
Did she have a working phone with her?
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: öde on 08 Aug 2009, 02:37
Jodie's fine, it was just that Roddy has no internet! She'll be here in a few hours!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: David_Dovey on 08 Aug 2009, 05:29
Hooray Jodie is OK!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: axerton on 08 Aug 2009, 05:50
just as well. wars have been started over lesser things.
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: jodizzle on 08 Aug 2009, 11:00
I'm sorry you were all worried guys! But there was not much else I could do while internets free!  All is well though, I still havn't been mugged or arrested so yay me!
(England is AWESOME)
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: KvP on 08 Aug 2009, 12:10
yaay
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: KvP on 08 Aug 2009, 14:52
Oh right I guess I should just Link to my photo album (http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=130730&id=589819387&l=913d8b98c8). 140 pics and counting!
Title: Re: Chicagocon '09 - The Internet Invades the Midwest
Post by: BrittanyMarie on 09 Aug 2009, 18:29
It makes me feel creepy that I've already seen those even though we're not facebook friends. I should fix that?