Posted on 08/18/2002 5:18:22 PM PDT by Auntie Mame
Dear Freepers:
I just returned from the First Annual Free Republic Network Convention in Las Vegas.
The Free Republic Network Cruise last October was the most fun I've ever had in my whole life. The Free Republic Network Conference I just attended was the most informative and inspiring two days I've ever had in my whole life.
The Free Republic Network is stretching its muscle, not by talk, but by action. The Free Republic forum is liberty's college. The Free Republic Network is liberty's workplace.
If you attended, please use this thread to post your observations, comments and highlights of the conference. I will give mine below. But before I do, I'd like to take this time to thank Bob Johnson and the FRN board for putting on this conference. It's hard for me to find the words to adequately describe how great this experience was--and how much I learned.
Seems to me the two main jobs spelled out for the federal government were to protect our borders and deliver the mail ... until they can do either one effectively, I don't think we should put anything more on their plate.
Admittedly tangential, but kind of on-topic. Quite a few of us went to the Star Trek Experience at the LV Hilton (arguably a conference experience).
Nimoy would be a great draw if we could get him. However, I warn you NOT to spend the money to get Patrick Stewart to speak. You would think he would be a great speaker, but he starts droning about his years in the Royal Shakespeare Theater for 3 hours every time he speaks, and its just sleepy-time for the listeners. I heard him at a Trek convention in Dallas, and was very sorry I did. I actually walked out (and I'm a BIG fan of the man's work).
Jonathan Frakes? Defintely a great speaker. Anyone from the series but Stewart, please.
What's to debate:
Seven of Nine! STTNG - Hands down Winner!
Regards,
TS
Five, actually. One in Leeds, England in 1979, others in LA, San Fran, Washington DC, and Dallas. I met my ex at the con in Leeds and filled my autograph book with Mark Lenard's, Nichelle Nichol's, and Dee Kelley's autographs. I went jogging with George Takei at the Dallas con.
I've been doing this for a long time.
(shudder)
We all have our weak spots. I would pay to see Kirstie Alley myself (even though she is a Scientologist).
Memberships are up and it looks like the NC Chapter is cranking back up this weekend!
This conference was just what the doctor ordered! One of tonight's items will be the gathering of data for next year's conference. We will be looking for continued input from all of Friva's participants.
Hot Damn!
I think abner and Leni are already over there waiting.
Agreed.
You must not be sitting on your hands ALL the time else I'd not be cheering you as well. I've admired more than once your own ability to stick to your guns and stand by your convictions. I think that's what makes a man of integrity and I see no reason to settle for less.
(Quite frankly, I find the ability of some liberals to stick to their convictions -- regardless how skew or evil I might find same -- is sadly lacking among the "I'm personally opposed, BUT" party. Particularly given the fact we've got truth on our side, it's always amazed me how it's ONLY the left who have Litmus Tests they enforce without shame or apology.)
All the best, Gore_War_Vet.
A pleasure meeting you as well. The conference was both an outstanding value and an outstanding learning opportunity. I will be hosting a Chicagoland Chapter Membership Drive picnic on 9/8 and have invited all FReepers I've been able to identify as being from the area. Any members of the FRN Board that would like to lend their presence are welcome ... hint, hint.
I'll be pretty bogged down electioneering thru the November election, but if I can lend any assistance to FRN, let me know.
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