Hello Friends - it's come to my attention that there are plans to
schedule a social for the local area Florida H group members, in the
St. Pete national event hotel, at a time that may conflict with one of
the St. Pete 2009 activities. Apparently, the intent is to give the
locals a way to feel "part of the St. Pete event" even if they have not
paid the event fee, and encouraging St. Pete's paying attendees to
"meet the locals."

I have a FAR BETTER idea! Why not actually BE A PART of the St. Pete
event by:

1) if it has to be held at the event hotel, planning that local social
at a time when it does NOT conflict with any of the St. Pete planned
activities, then let us advertise it to the paying attendees and
increase your chances that the paying attendees will actually show up
to "meet the locals,"

OR

2) if you don't want to pay the event fee, but want to be part of St.
Pete 2009, simply come and join us at the event activities that do NOT
require the fee or a wristband. There are several, and they're listed
on the weekend schedule.

You would *not* be able to attend the meals, Saturday morning panel, or
evening gatherings in the ballroom - the "Red" events - that require
the fee, but everything else is open: golf w/ Gr8legs, Friday afternoon
Pub Crawl, Saturday afternoon Pool Party & Variety Show/Open Mic
(perform!), Weavie's Saturday evening acoustic jam, midnight
After-Hours gatherings, etc.

If you choose this second option, you'll need to register on the event
site: http://stpetebeachevent.org.

By the way, some history, for those who are curious (or confused) about
its genesis: the St. Pete national event has been in existence for many
years, but not always in St Pete. It was started several years ago by a
good friend of mine from Atlanta, who held it in Treasure Island. Over
the years, it has been handed down from friend to friend, some of whom
have never lived in Florida.

St. Pete is not under the jurisdiction or ownership of any H group or
organization. It's truly a national event, organized by friends, for
the entire H community, and all are invited.

You're all welcome to join in the fun!

Cat >"<
Lead Planner
St. Pete 2009
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http://stpetebeachevent.org
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