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Astronomics
Vendor if you must, AKA The Mighty Kong.

Reged: 06/07/04

Loc: Right Here

Any interest in a Convention in Norman?
#5185463 - 04/22/12 09:52 PM

We have talked about putting a one day NEAF like convention in Norman. I know there are plenty of people that can't make the trip to New York and would like to see what manufacturers have to offer as well as great speakers. I am just trying to find out the actual interest in this.

I would always shoot for an October date.

We have a facility here.

The airport is literally 18 minutes away. If you have a private plane of some sort there is a small local airport two minutes away. The facility is attached to a hotel and the whole thing is 1/2 a mile off I-35.

Any interest?

Post Extras:

darkman
Man In Black

Reged: 10/19/10

Loc: San Antonio, TX

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: Astronomics]
#5185522 - 04/22/12 10:27 PM

Count me in.

Post Extras:

mish
sage

Reged: 02/10/09

Loc: West of Astronomics

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: Astronomics]
#5185623 - 04/23/12 12:02 AM

I think it would be great!

One suggestion, though -- if you're looking at an October date and there's a Saturday in the mix, just be sure that Stoops' Troops are playing on the road, or finding lodging could prove interesting.

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Astronomics
Vendor if you must, AKA The Mighty Kong.

Reged: 06/07/04

Loc: Right Here

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: mish]
#5185915 - 04/23/12 07:42 AM

Either a bye week or away game. I was hoping for a bye so the locals would still be local and not glued to the tube.

Post Extras:

MikeBOKC
Post Laureate

Reged: 05/10/10

Loc: Oklahoma City, OK

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: Astronomics]
#5185993 - 04/23/12 08:54 AM

I expect you would get major turnout from the astro clubs here in Oklahoma and north Texas. You might also consider an overnight bus trip or caravan out to CRO as part of the event? I expect the OKc club would be pleased to host it.

Post Extras:

rboe

Reged: 03/16/02

Loc: Phx, AZ

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: MikeBOKC]
#5186141 - 04/23/12 10:52 AM

My interest varies with the vacation time I've burned through out the year. But I'd be keen on attending. Certainly closer than NEAF!

Post Extras:

Mike Foreman
sage

Reged: 04/06/07

Loc: Texas

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: rboe]
#5186275 - 04/23/12 12:14 PM

Im there

Post Extras:

bunyon
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 10/23/10

Loc: Winston-Salem, NC

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: Mike Foreman]
#5186508 - 04/23/12 02:13 PM

Depending on my class schedule, I might not be able to make it. But it would be a good excuse to come visit Mom and, if you schedule it for a bye week, I won't have to suffer through her making me watch the Sooners.

EDIT: Of course, these anecdotal bits don't really help. I'd guess there is enough interest in the area around you to make it worthwhile. It seems like an awful lot of folks in the region are into astronomy.

Edited by bunyon (04/23/12 02:15 PM)

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Bill Barlow
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 12/03/07

Loc: Overland Park KS

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: Astronomics]
#5186810 - 04/23/12 05:55 PM

Mike..

I live in the Kansas City area and would probably come down as it is about a 300 mile drive.

Bill

Post Extras:

David Pavlich
Transmographied

Reged: 05/18/05

Loc: Mandeville, LA USA

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: Bill Barlow]
#5186906 - 04/23/12 06:53 PM

It would depend on business if I could make it, but one thing to remember is that the Advanced Imaging Conference is always held in later October or early November.

David

Post Extras:

Astronomics
Vendor if you must, AKA The Mighty Kong.

Reged: 06/07/04

Loc: Right Here

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: David Pavlich]
#5186968 - 04/23/12 07:37 PM

Maybe we can combine the two.

Post Extras:

exparrot
member

Reged: 02/13/12

Loc: Dallas/Fort Worth, TX

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: Astronomics]
#5187024 - 04/23/12 08:09 PM

What a great idea! An easy drive for me, so count me in.

Post Extras:

mikey cee
Postmaster

Reged: 01/18/07

Loc: bellevue ne.

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: exparrot]
#5187173 - 04/23/12 10:00 PM

Yeah I might be interested if it weren't in "tornado alley"!

So ya' think it would be safer in October??

Mike

Post Extras:

Astronomics
Vendor if you must, AKA The Mighty Kong.

Reged: 06/07/04

Loc: Right Here

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: mikey cee]
#5187314 - 04/23/12 11:42 PM

The season should be over in the next few weeks.

Post Extras:

Unknownastron
professor emeritus

Reged: 04/06/05

Loc: CatsEye Observatory,Rural Sout...

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: Astronomics]
#5187406 - 04/24/12 01:02 AM

I would make every effort to be there. You probably know this better than I do but if you do have the event heavy promotion in the DFW area would likely get a very positive response. Lots of astronomers (and native Okies) in the area who would jump at a mini-NEAF just a few hours drive away.
Clear skies and clean glass,
Mike

Post Extras:

core
scholastic sledgehammer

Reged: 02/23/08

Loc: Mostly in Norman, OK

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: Unknownastron]
#5187415 - 04/24/12 01:14 AM

I was going to just post a mem-pic ... just organize it and take my money!

MikeB, great suggestion on the CRO tie-in!

Post Extras:

Trever
Post Laureate

Reged: 08/18/03

Loc: North Alabama

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: core]
#5187427 - 04/24/12 01:35 AM

Better there than in NY. I can at least drive there in a reasonable amount of time.

Post Extras:

EFT
Vendor - Deep Space Products

Reged: 05/07/07

Loc: Phoenix, AZ

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: Trever]
#5187792 - 04/24/12 10:12 AM

I would be interested if you could get enough vendors/manufacturers there to have a good turnout (probably a minimum of 40 booths for a startup). However, you should try to land somewhere between NEAF and PATS. As you know, vendors are tight on convention money these days have to pick and choose where they want to go, even the big guys, so being too close to the other two general astro events would hurt the vendor turn out, especially on a new show.

One other thing I would recommend is running the show more like PATS where it is mostly a convension for vendors to show off their wares than NEAF which is more like a giant store on wheels that is dominated by a few large retailers just trying to sell stuff as poeple come in the door and drain them before they even get to the true vendor booths in the back (this can also be addressed by how the booths are organized). I can go to a retail store anytime I want, I can't meet a vendor/manufacturer that often.

Overall, as a vendor I think it would be nice to have something in the middle of the country rather that on both ends.

Post Extras:

LLEEGE
True Blue

Reged: 03/03/05

Loc: Cloud-chester,NY

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: EFT]
#5187905 - 04/24/12 11:34 AM

I'd go just to see the new digs!

Post Extras:

Astronomics
Vendor if you must, AKA The Mighty Kong.

Reged: 06/07/04

Loc: Right Here

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: LLEEGE]
#5187941 - 04/24/12 11:50 AM

Well Oklahoma in the summer is not something I would want to invite most people. We were over 100 for around 50 straight days last year. October is great weather and really fits the best between all the other events IMO.

Post Extras:

EFT
Vendor - Deep Space Products

Reged: 05/07/07

Loc: Phoenix, AZ

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: Astronomics]
#5187950 - 04/24/12 11:57 AM

Quote:

Well Oklahoma in the summer is not something I would want to invite most people. We were over 100 for around 50 straight days last year. October is great weather and really fits the best between all the other events IMO.

But PATS is September 22-23 this year and a month or less between the two would probably hurt you with the vendors. An indoor convention is not that big a deal for the weather, although mid winter with snow might not be that great. I would rather brave the heat. I would think that June would be the best time. A few months after NEAF and a few months before PATS.

Post Extras:

belgrade
sage

Reged: 10/05/07

Loc: Frisco, TX

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: EFT]
#5188056 - 04/24/12 01:06 PM

I agree with EFT. But count me in for sure no matter when - as long as it's on Saturday or Sunday.

Post Extras:

Tarzanrock
professor emeritus

Reged: 12/07/08

Loc: Los Angeles

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: EFT]
#5188058 - 04/24/12 01:07 PM

Mr. Thomas makes a very valid point well worth considering -- especially for those on the West Coast.

Post Extras:

EFT
Vendor - Deep Space Products

Reged: 05/07/07

Loc: Phoenix, AZ

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: Tarzanrock]
#5188084 - 04/24/12 01:20 PM

Another good thing about June or July is that most kids are out of school so you might get more paricipation from non-local people who can bring the entire family. You can also take advantage of more people being able to plan to come during summer vacation season. We could use a lot more kids at these events. Too many of us old guys and not enough young blood. My 15 year old daughter is my convention assistant and I have to take her out of school to go to PATS and NEAF. She loves doing it but hates missing school.

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Astronomics
Vendor if you must, AKA The Mighty Kong.

Reged: 06/07/04

Loc: Right Here

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: EFT]
#5188318 - 04/24/12 03:38 PM

A. The chance of getting it done this year is slim to none.
B. While I appreciate the input about PATS, knowing of other events in the Summer on the west coast, it doesn't really work for me to have it in the Summer. Also, indoor or not, if it is hot the chance of getting locals out is pretty slim. Going outside for even a few minutes results in discomfort during the summer here.
C. We would try to work a tie-in with Okie Tex star party which is in October as well.

Post Extras:

okieav8r
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 03/01/09

Loc: Oklahoma!

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: Astronomics]
#5188464 - 04/24/12 04:46 PM

Quote:

A. The chance of getting it done this year is slim to none.
B. While I appreciate the input about PATS, knowing of other events in the Summer on the west coast, it doesn't really work for me to have it in the Summer. Also, indoor or not, if it is hot the chance of getting locals out is pretty slim. Going outside for even a few minutes results in discomfort during the summer here.
C. We would try to work a tie-in with Okie Tex star party which is in October as well.

I would come, regardless of the time of year. As for summer, well, locals like me are pretty acclimated to summer weather. I sure don't let it keep me from getting out. If you were to have it as a tie-in with Okie-Tex, maybe it would help get more vendors to Okie-Tex.

Post Extras:

EFT
Vendor - Deep Space Products

Reged: 05/07/07

Loc: Phoenix, AZ

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: Astronomics]
#5188531 - 04/24/12 05:19 PM

Quote:

A. The chance of getting it done this year is slim to none.
B. While I appreciate the input about PATS, knowing of other events in the Summer on the west coast, it doesn't really work for me to have it in the Summer. Also, indoor or not, if it is hot the chance of getting locals out is pretty slim. Going outside for even a few minutes results in discomfort during the summer here.
C. We would try to work a tie-in with Okie Tex star party which is in October as well.

A. Good planning would suggest that it would be better to wait a year than to rush it anyways.
B. It's already 105 where I am.
C. Since Okie-Tex covers two weekends it doesn't make a very good tie-in. You would most likely loose vendor to or take vendors from Okie-Tex. Plus it is right before PATS this year, September 8-16.

I would like to see there be a successful mid-country general astronomy show, but competing with the other two primary shows by scheduling too close will only hurt both shows. Even the big vendors are not going everywhere these days since going to a show is an expensive proposition however you do it. There will always be competing events going on, even some shows (e.g., AIC 10/26-10/28, MWAIC/ALCON 7/4-7/7, etc.) but it would be better to schedule a good time for 2013 than to have a potentially limited success in 2012. While I am only one vendor, if I have to choose, then my time and money will go to the established PATS where I already have two booths reserved rather than to a new show very close in time to PATS.

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Astronomics
Vendor if you must, AKA The Mighty Kong.

Reged: 06/07/04

Loc: Right Here

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: EFT]
#5188582 - 04/24/12 06:01 PM

That being said, what time is a good time in 2013? The other shows don't have anything posted for next year, so I will just have to throw my hat in the ring and see what happens.

Post Extras:

EFT
Vendor - Deep Space Products

Reged: 05/07/07

Loc: Phoenix, AZ

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: Astronomics]
#5188671 - 04/24/12 06:50 PM

It will always be tough to find a date. PATS in September actually competes to some extent for vendors with IAC in October. RTMC is in May, OPT has it's thing in July. Both are "relatively" small. I would still lean towards June. January might be good if it wasn't that a lot of people aren't thinking about astronomy at that time of year (except for those of us in the south) and the WSP is in February. Tough call, but I think if you take your time and make the tremendous amount of effort it takes to pull this kind of thing off, June 2013 could be a good start.

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Astronomics
Vendor if you must, AKA The Mighty Kong.

Reged: 06/07/04

Loc: Right Here

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: EFT]
#5188679 - 04/24/12 06:58 PM

I get the logic, but my heart and my schedule says it is an October date. If it shoots me in the foot, then so be it.

Post Extras:

crazyqban
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 12/16/08

Loc: Miami, Florida

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: Astronomics]
#5188731 - 04/24/12 07:32 PM

Mike, you should probably discuss it with potential vendors to get a feel. I think that if it is a show that will have a good amount of the big names represented, people will attend whether it is in June or October.

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Astronomics
Vendor if you must, AKA The Mighty Kong.

Reged: 06/07/04

Loc: Right Here

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: crazyqban]
#5188755 - 04/24/12 08:00 PM

Another thing to consider that Norman is a college town and we want to have the show when there are going to be plenty of attendees. Summer is not the busiest time around here.

Post Extras:

cloudmagnet
sage

Reged: 12/04/08

Loc: Georgetown, Texas

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: Astronomics]
#5188770 - 04/24/12 08:11 PM

October sounds just fine!

Post Extras:

knightware
Vendor (Knightware)

Reged: 03/22/06

Loc: North Carolina

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: cloudmagnet]
#5189405 - 04/25/12 08:45 AM

Mike,

I'd like to get on a list of interested vendors if you have one. Dates and costs would be very helpful once you begin to put it together. The facility looks quite nice!

Post Extras:

cheapersleeper
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 01/22/10

Loc: Sachse TX

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: knightware]
#5189702 - 04/25/12 11:44 AM

Other than club events, Texas seems a little short of Astro events. Considering that many North Texas astro peeps already drive to OK to observe, seems we might be willing to drive a bit further...

Regards,
Brad

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jrcrilly
Refractor wienie no more

Reged: 04/30/03

Loc: NE Ohio

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: cheapersleeper]
#5189714 - 04/25/12 11:50 AM

I think you could count on half a dozen attendees from Ohio...

Post Extras:

rboe

Reged: 03/16/02

Loc: Phx, AZ

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: jrcrilly]
#5189841 - 04/25/12 01:12 PM

From a non-vendor view point October is a good time for this. Winter travel, once you get out of southern Arizona, can be iffy and cold. I don't mind cold if I'm skiing. Standing around doing nothing is a show stopper.

Humid summers are a no-brainer too, too dang hot and I'm not fond of humitidy or mosquitos.

My logic is probably faulty but working with Okie-Tex seems to be a great idea. Vendors could work both events one weekend at a time and get two shows without leaving the area. Maybe that is too simplistic.

But if you do it up right, attract lots of folks in a thousand mile radius, in due time the show should be large enough that you can not be ignored.

Post Extras:

zjc26138
Loved By All

Reged: 02/24/05

Loc: Mingo Junction, Ohio

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: jrcrilly]
#5189876 - 04/25/12 01:37 PM

Quote:

I think you could count on half a dozen attendees from Ohio...

Indeed. I would go.

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Astronomics
Vendor if you must, AKA The Mighty Kong.

Reged: 06/07/04

Loc: Right Here

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: zjc26138]
#5190147 - 04/25/12 03:56 PM

I was hoping to charge the public nothing. The facility gave me a great quote a few years ago and the city is willing to do about anything to stimulate visitor influx

Post Extras:

GeneT
Ely Kid

Reged: 11/07/08

Loc: South Texas

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: Astronomics]
#5190428 - 04/25/12 06:39 PM

This is a great idea! I would attend. I just can't afford to travel as far as New York. Is there enough hotel/motel room in Norman?
GeneT

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Astronomics
Vendor if you must, AKA The Mighty Kong.

Reged: 06/07/04

Loc: Right Here

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: GeneT]
#5190568 - 04/25/12 08:07 PM

We have plenty of hotel space. A typical OU home game brings in a total of 85,000+ so it isn't an issue. The hotel the center is attached to has a few hundred rooms. Last time I checked the rate was around $79 a night for convention prices, but that was a few years ago.

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Astronomics
Vendor if you must, AKA The Mighty Kong.

Reged: 06/07/04

Loc: Right Here

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: GeneT]
#5196871 - 04/29/12 04:29 PM

My wife was thinking about calling it the Midwest Astronomy Expo.

Post Extras:

Tim Gilliland
professor emeritus

Reged: 03/28/09

Loc: Sand Springs Okla.

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: Astronomics]
#5196917 - 04/29/12 05:00 PM

Kind of hoping this takes shape.

It's a 90 minute drive for me.

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Astronomics
Vendor if you must, AKA The Mighty Kong.

Reged: 06/07/04

Loc: Right Here

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: Tim Gilliland]
#5196996 - 04/29/12 05:54 PM

My other hope is around a $5 ticket price adults, kids for free.

Post Extras:

edwincjones
Close Enough

Reged: 04/10/04

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: Astronomics]
#5197253 - 04/29/12 08:51 PM

200 mile drive for me-count me in
I would prefer fall but other seasons would do

edj

why not combine it with a regional Astronomical League meeting?

Edited by edwincjones (04/29/12 08:55 PM)

Post Extras:

~Steph~
Texas Wildflower

Reged: 06/11/05

Loc: North Texas

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: Astronomics]
#5197356 - 04/29/12 10:18 PM

Quote:

My wife was thinking about calling it the Midwest Astronomy Expo.

I understand the conceptual reason, but I just don't think of Oklahoma as "Midwest". In pretty much anything that breaks things down by regions, OK is included in just plain ol' "south" most of the time. Would "South Central" or "MidSouth" work?

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Astronomics
Vendor if you must, AKA The Mighty Kong.

Reged: 06/07/04

Loc: Right Here

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: ~Steph~]
#5197390 - 04/29/12 10:34 PM

There use to be a Midsouth wrestling brand in the 70s and 80s. Who knows what sort of crowd might show.

Post Extras:

~Steph~
Texas Wildflower

Reged: 06/11/05

Loc: North Texas

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: Astronomics]
#5197430 - 04/29/12 11:02 PM

Just think of it as outreach to a whole new audience......

Post Extras:

Bob Myler
scholastic sledgehammer

Reged: 05/18/06

Loc: St Louis, MO

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: ~Steph~]
#5197522 - 04/30/12 12:11 AM

me come.

Post Extras:

okieav8r
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 03/01/09

Loc: Oklahoma!

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: Astronomics]
#5197741 - 04/30/12 06:34 AM

Quote:

There use to be a Midsouth wrestling brand in the 70s and 80s. Who knows what sort of crowd might show.

If you were a fan of midsouth wrasslin', surely you remember the phrase "watch out for flying chairs!"

Post Extras:

rboe

Reged: 03/16/02

Loc: Phx, AZ

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: Astronomics]
#5197959 - 04/30/12 10:06 AM

Quote:

My wife was thinking about calling it the Midwest Astronomy Expo.

Then you have the whole Mae West thing to play with.

Post Extras:

csa/montana
Den Mama

Reged: 05/14/05

Loc: montana

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: ~Steph~]
#5197973 - 04/30/12 10:19 AM

Quote:

Quote:

My wife was thinking about calling it the Midwest Astronomy Expo.

I understand the conceptual reason, but I just don't think of Oklahoma as "Midwest". In pretty much anything that breaks things down by regions, OK is included in just plain ol' "south" most of the time. Would "South Central" or "MidSouth" work?

Oklahoma is in the South Central Region. No matter what the name will be, people will attend!

Post Extras:

MikeBOKC
Post Laureate

Reged: 05/10/10

Loc: Oklahoma City, OK

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: csa/montana]
#5198103 - 04/30/12 11:47 AM

How about Midcontinent Astro Expo?
That takes in everything between the two coasts . . .

Post Extras:

frebie
Chief assistant to the assistant chief

Reged: 04/29/08

Loc: Neither here nor there.

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: MikeBOKC]
#5198136 - 04/30/12 12:02 PM

Write it as Mid America Astronomy eXpo and you can take it to the MAAX.

Post Extras:

csa/montana
Den Mama

Reged: 05/14/05

Loc: montana

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: frebie]
#5198207 - 04/30/12 12:38 PM

Quote:

Write it as Mid America Astronomy eXpo and you can take it to the MAAX.

Sounds like THE winner!

Post Extras:

rboe

Reged: 03/16/02

Loc: Phx, AZ

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: frebie]
#5198396 - 04/30/12 02:38 PM

Quote:

Write it as Mid America Astronomy eXpo and you can take it to the MAAX.

Show off.

Post Extras:

bunyon
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 10/23/10

Loc: Winston-Salem, NC

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: okieav8r]
#5199651 - 05/01/12 08:25 AM

I grew up in Oklahoma and have lived the rest of my life in North Carolina. Oklahoma is not "The South". It isn't the midwest, either. Lots of true midwesterners will chime in on that one. Also, it is not quite the Southwest.

I've long had trouble defining a region for it. Maybe something using the word "Plains"?

Post Extras:

~Steph~
Texas Wildflower

Reged: 06/11/05

Loc: North Texas

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: frebie]
#5200011 - 05/01/12 12:11 PM

Quote:

Write it as Mid America Astronomy eXpo and you can take it to the MAAX.

Oooh. You're good.

(Like you needed me to tell you that.

)

Post Extras:

frebie
Chief assistant to the assistant chief

Reged: 04/29/08

Loc: Neither here nor there.

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: bunyon]
#5200013 - 05/01/12 12:11 PM

There are telescope shows on the East Coast and the West Coast, but none in the middle of the country, so Mid America seems appropriate.

Post Extras:

rboe

Reged: 03/16/02

Loc: Phx, AZ

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: frebie]
#5200232 - 05/01/12 02:06 PM

And over due....

Post Extras:

belgrade
sage

Reged: 10/05/07

Loc: Frisco, TX

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: rboe]
#5200416 - 05/01/12 04:02 PM

The Heartland Astro Expo!

Post Extras:

coolrocketdude
member

Reged: 08/26/08

Loc: Alamogordo, NM

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: Astronomics]
#5201531 - 05/02/12 10:21 AM

Road trip !! Count me in.

Post Extras:

Jason B
My wife says I am Obsessed...

Reged: 06/21/04

Loc: Mid-Michigan

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: coolrocketdude]
#5202117 - 05/02/12 03:17 PM

October is a tough time of year for me with my son playing high school football the next two years but I would make it work if I can!

Post Extras:

Smittty692k4
scholastic sledgehammer

Reged: 07/05/11

Loc: East Bernard, TX

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: Jason B]
#5202275 - 05/02/12 04:47 PM

Sounds like a winner!!

Post Extras:

Doug Culbertson
Post Laureate

Reged: 01/06/05

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: Smittty692k4]
#5202381 - 05/02/12 05:45 PM

Sounds like a good motorcycle trip!

Post Extras:

Clay Kessler
sage

Reged: 04/16/07

Loc: Manchester MI

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: Doug Culbertson]
#5205310 - 05/04/12 10:21 AM

Putting on my "vendor" hat I would rather see a two day event. It will take me (note - I said "will") two days to drive from Michigan with a loaded van to display. I would like to see two days to display and talk to people.

OTOH - I am interested in whatever happens.

Post Extras:

EFT
Vendor - Deep Space Products

Reged: 05/07/07

Loc: Phoenix, AZ

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: Clay Kessler]
#5205331 - 05/04/12 10:39 AM

Quote:

Putting on my "vendor" hat I would rather see a two day event. It will take me (note - I said "will") two days to drive from Michigan with a loaded van to display. I would like to see two days to display and talk to people.

OTOH - I am interested in whatever happens.

I would certainly have to agree with this. Two days is a minimum for something like this. It takes way too much effort to travel and set up for one day.

Post Extras:

Astronomics
Vendor if you must, AKA The Mighty Kong.

Reged: 06/07/04

Loc: Right Here

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: EFT]
#5205372 - 05/04/12 11:02 AM

Well, since we are in the bible belt, people generally go to church on Sunday morning, then have a nice long late lunch with their family and don't' get out until after 2:00 that day. So they would have a whopping 3 hours to view the goods if that. I think knowing the captive local audience really helps. If you guys can't make a one day event, duly noted. But a start up two day event is looking like a mistake. And Ed, it seems like you have zero interest at all, only to critique what I suggested. I was looking for input as to interest, not how to run my show. Please don't take it wrong as I sound harsh, but it is hard to convey anything through a forum at times. I just like to put it all on the table.

Post Extras:

Jay_Bird
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 01/04/06

Loc: USA

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: Astronomics]
#5205683 - 05/04/12 02:03 PM

Sounds like fun. Duration is like a one-day California event I enjoyed, the only event like this I've attended, and your venue sounds larger (but isn't a walk from the beach). I liked getting to shake hands with some names in the business and even though I only got a book for my daughter out of the raffle, she was reading it out loud and asking questions on the drive home. I've been to only one of those events, in several years since there's always been another family priority on summertime weekends.

I haven't been to your retail store but from passing thru OKC area I recall lakes and parks in the region - is there a chance for an evening viewing and outreach tie-in that's not too far from the convention center?

If there are semi-dark skies where you are south of OKC, a 1 or 2 night star party tied to the convention, with outreach element, at a local park (especially one with camping & recreation like hiking or canoe rental) would add to interest.

A varied package of chamber-of-commerce coupons with admission makes a star party or expo more fun for the whole family - the Cowboy Hall of Fame comes to mind, and there must be more attractions, local food specialties to try & stock up, local dining.

Good luck planning & hosting

Edited by Jay_Bird (05/04/12 02:26 PM)

Post Extras:

EFT
Vendor - Deep Space Products

Reged: 05/07/07

Loc: Phoenix, AZ

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: Astronomics]
#5205732 - 05/04/12 02:37 PM

I am interested and have responded off-line.

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Astronomics
Vendor if you must, AKA The Mighty Kong.

Reged: 06/07/04

Loc: Right Here

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: EFT]
#5205771 - 05/04/12 02:56 PM

And just to make a point clear, this is a straw poll about the feasibility of attendees coming to the show. The TOS prevents even the owner of CN from posting outside of where I am allowed to post. We aren't trying to figure out any sort of vendor participation outside of, "sounds neat, let's see where it goes."

Input is fine, but not warranted yet. And honestly, I can't run a show from the standpoint of a democracy it has to be done from a one person perspective.

Post Extras:

edwincjones
Close Enough

Reged: 04/10/04

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: Astronomics]
#5206795 - 05/05/12 07:06 AM

have you considered a mini convention with with an open house when the showroom is complete-to test the waters?

edj

Post Extras:

Astronomics
Vendor if you must, AKA The Mighty Kong.

Reged: 06/07/04

Loc: Right Here

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: edwincjones]
#5206870 - 05/05/12 08:34 AM

I am thinking about a grand opening/vendor day Sept. 15th. I have TeleVue and Celestron on board with the date. Explore should be fine with it as well. I just need to hear from Meade. I was hoping to get Lunt involved as well.

Post Extras:

edwincjones
Close Enough

Reged: 04/10/04

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: Astronomics]
#5207247 - 05/05/12 01:24 PM

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Awesomelenny
Post Laureate

Reged: 05/02/04

Loc: Long: 81.42 W Lat: 41.21 N

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: jrcrilly]
#5207722 - 05/05/12 06:59 PM

I will definitely come too! Count me in!

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rboe

Reged: 03/16/02

Loc: Phx, AZ

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: Awesomelenny]
#5207851 - 05/05/12 08:23 PM

This year?

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Astronomics
Vendor if you must, AKA The Mighty Kong.

Reged: 06/07/04

Loc: Right Here

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: rboe]
#5207944 - 05/05/12 10:03 PM

The seeds would be planted this year. I need to lock down the date, once we get officially moved in. It would be a simple vendor day/grand opening. I can supply the entertainment by juggling Ethos.

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rboe

Reged: 03/16/02

Loc: Phx, AZ

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: Astronomics]
#5207970 - 05/05/12 10:23 PM

I hope a simple guy like me can make it then.

I'll hold you to the entertainment too.

Post Extras:

~Steph~
Texas Wildflower

Reged: 06/11/05

Loc: North Texas

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: rboe]
#5208050 - 05/05/12 11:08 PM

With that for entertainment? I'm there.

Post Extras:

edwincjones
Close Enough

Reged: 04/10/04

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: Astronomics]
#5208368 - 05/06/12 07:07 AM

Quote:

.......... I can supply the entertainment by juggling Ethos.

I hope that you toss them to the crowd, like those tiny footballs at other events

edj

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BRisley
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 09/04/06

Loc: SW Florida

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: edwincjones]
#5209122 - 05/06/12 05:04 PM

No, we need to get him an ethos air cannon, so he can shoot them to us!

(Now only if they cost as little as a hot dog at a sporting event! Oh wait, they do cost less don't they!

)

Brian

Post Extras:

Jason B
My wife says I am Obsessed...

Reged: 06/21/04

Loc: Mid-Michigan

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: BRisley]
#5209127 - 05/06/12 05:10 PM

Sounds fun Mike, but unfortunately that is during my son's football season so I couldn't make it this year. After a few years of NEAF, I feel bad for not being there!

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GaryJCarter
sage

Reged: 06/06/09

Loc: Fairview, Texas

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: Jason B]
#5232886 - 05/21/12 05:20 PM

This has been a long time coming. A great idea Mike! I look forward to seeing it come to fruition!

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Unknownastron
professor emeritus

Reged: 04/06/05

Loc: CatsEye Observatory,Rural Sout...

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: GaryJCarter]
#5248083 - 05/30/12 10:06 PM

I just checked and Sept. 15 2012 is the final day of Okie-Tex this year, so a number of 'local' stargazers would be there instead of your grand opening. I understand one has to set dates with all things considered and not trying to tell you how to run your grand opening, just sayin'.
BTW, this December will be the 30 year(!!!)anniversary of my purchase of a C-8 from you. Still have it, still love it.
Clear skies and clean glass
Mike

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okieav8r
Carpal Tunnel

Reged: 03/01/09

Loc: Oklahoma!

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: Astronomics]
#5459543 - 10/07/12 04:33 PM

Quote:

We have talked about putting a one day NEAF like convention in Norman. I know there are plenty of people that can't make the trip to New York and would like to see what manufacturers have to offer as well as great speakers. I am just trying to find out the actual interest in this.

I would always shoot for an October date.

We have a facility here.

The airport is literally 18 minutes away. If you have a private plane of some sort there is a small local airport two minutes away. The facility is attached to a hotel and the whole thing is 1/2 a mile off I-35.

Any interest?

Now that the grand opening has come and gone, did the turnout there give you any indication of how a convention might go over in Norman? I realize it is probably pretty hard to have any conclusive idea, but is seemed to me that attendance was pretty good, given how crummy the weather was.

Post Extras:

Starman1
Vendor (EyepiecesEtc.com)

Reged: 06/24/03

Loc: Los Angeles

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: okieav8r]
#5459599 - 10/07/12 05:17 PM

I presume that, now that the NEAF people are going to put on a show in Tucson, starting this year, and there is already a west coast show in Pasadena (PATS), a show in Norman might be a bit too much in the way of shows?

The bicycle business went through a phase of having tons of regional shows, but eventually settled on one giant show in Las Vegas each year. Not only does that increase attendance by vendors, it also attracts people from more than just the US.

The astronomy industry should learn from that model:
--one giant show with nearly every vendor in the US & Canada represented, and maybe some international vendors (like Officina Stellare, etc.)
--a place with tons of flights into and out of each day.
--lots of local hotel space
--fairly inexpensive spaces in the show (no doubt due to attendance--over 900 exhibitors)
--new product introductions coinciding with the show.
--inexpensive entry for the public (it cost me more to see 30 vendors at PATS this year than 900 vendors at InterBike)
--lots of lectures and talks during and after the show hours
--lots of local activities outside of show hours.

Just a thought.

Post Extras:

Mary B
Vendor - Echo Astronomy and Electronics

Reged: 05/21/10

Loc: Minnesota

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: Starman1]
#5459639 - 10/07/12 05:49 PM

Would be fun and even doable from up here in MN.

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maltydog
member

Reged: 09/13/12

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: Mary B]
#5461712 - 10/09/12 08:17 AM

for my own personal selfish reasons i would love to see a show in Normon since it is close enough i could drive up there in a couple hours. i thoroughly enjoyed the open house at astronomics; would be great to see a big show with lots of vendors (selling stuff). would give me a good reason to buy my next scope or some other un-needed accessory. you know how it is with a exhibit/show atmosphere.

Post Extras:

RAKing
Postmaster

Reged: 12/28/07

Loc: West of the D.C. Nebula

Re: Any interest in a Convention in Norman? new

[Re: Starman1]
#5462048 - 10/09/12 12:37 PM

I understand your point, Don. I spent several years as a road rep in the bicycle inductry and remember the travelling circus around the country.

The biggest difference between the bicycle industry and astronomy is scale. I had about 100 dealers in Virginia to visit and sell my bicycle goods. I don't know of a single astronomy shop here in the Commonwealth.

I for one, would not want to sacrifice NEAF for a single show in Las Vegas. It would be great to meet more west coast folks every year at such a venue, but with the amount of information available on the internet, I'm not sure I would spend the money to fly out to a big show every year unless I really had to touch something before I bought it.

You have a good idea. Let's see if our hobby grows enough to support it.

Thanks,

Ron

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