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The Hotel: The Treasure Island Hotel has to be the best hotel experience I've ever had. It wasn't the size of the rooms that made it great, it was the people, from check-in, to food servers, to security, to the pit boss at the blackjack table, to the dealer, to the girl cleaning ashtrays on the casino floor, we were treated to smiles and kindness and courtesy.
The Freepers: The best of the best is the only way to describe them. Those that made the conference are dedicated in their beliefs and it shows. I had the privilege of dining last night with two freepers I've never met before, Maceman and Strela. Talk about interesting people! I also dined with Taxman, Dixie Sass, WIMom, Badjoe and One Particular Harbor (who got in trouble for talking during Rich Galen's speech, but don't worry, Mr. Galen very nicely put him in his place and left us laughing hysterically at the same time). My only regret is I wasn't able to spend even more time with freepers. Next year I will add a day onto the front and back of the conference for socializing and hope others will, too.
The conference:
Friday night reception: As you all know, Laura Ingraham spoke at the Friday night reception. She's beautiful in person! Pictures don't do her justice. She's also not on a star trip and very approachable. She was extremely polite to everyone. We already know how funny she is and she didn't let us down during her talk.
Saturday seminars:
The Leadership Institute: This was the meat of the conference and it was almost too intense. Matt Lewis of the Leadership Institute spoke and this young man is not only well trained, he's got a talent for what he does. A little meat for you--he recommends reading Carville and Begala's book, said he believes in reading the opposition and this book is very good for what it is and if you want to understand how Clinton did what he did. There was substance here, folks, and the work they do is not for the weak. I found myself taking notes furiously. The Leadership Institute will have one more person--me--the next time they put on a seminar in my area. Every single freeper, and every single person interested in furthering the conservative cause and every single person interested in bettering themselves needs to participate in the programs offered by the Leadership Institute. I know I will. Perhaps at a later date I, or someone else, will go into depth about what we were taught by the Leadership Institute on Saturday at the Friva conference.
Chuck Muth: What a dynamic man! I love this guy! He, too, was full of tips and tricks about activism. Just a little tidbit for you--he says the best way to influence Congress these days are telephone calls, they block email but do log telephone calls. On the local and state level, emails will work. He stuck around for much of the conference and also spoke again later in the day. He had a very interesting take on abortion and I found myself thinking, "Yes, that's what I think, too, but I've never been able to articulate it before!" This man is completely honest and outspoken. There is no spin. He says what he thinks and he's not afraid. Mr. Muth has a newsletter that I will be signing up for forthwith. If you EVER get a chance to hear this man speak, do yourself a favor and go. You will be inspired.
Rich Galen: Wonderful speaker, funny, interesting, smart, and real treat to hear. We as freepers need to hear what he has to say as often as possible.
Nancy Bocskar: Ms. Mocskar is an expert in fundraising, event planning and political training. This woman is not only a dynamic speaker, she is a pro and knows how the game is played. She told us how to keep fundraising costs down, how to go about fundraising and setting up a fundraising committee. Here's a tidbit for you--Personal solicitation is the best way to raise money for a political candidate, not direct mail. All politics is personal in fundraising. This is another speaker you should run, not walk, to hear if you ever get a chance.
There were many many handouts and several speakers were generous with their email addresses and invited us to email them if we need help or have questions.
Don't miss next year's Free Republic Network Conference. The entire conference was about $200 and the value was in the thousands, if it can even be measured monetarily.
The conference was more, much more, than I expected.
I've been to lots of conferences and this was the most well done, most interesting, program I have ever had the good fortune to attend.
Thank you Free Republic Network! I'll see you next year!
P.S. There are some who would like to see the Free Republic Network disbanded; there are some who would work behind the scenes to destroy its effectiveness; there are some who think that the Free Republic Network and the Free Republic Forum are not two fingers on the same hand.
For those who think that way, you are going to be disappointed. I was there this weekend and saw the Free Republic Network in action. It is powerful and it is growing. And everybody who participated is a Freeper. It will not be stopped.
This is exactly the type of thinking that will be needed to affect change.
We just got back in PHX a bit ago, and we're road-burnt. We'll get some pics over when we get a chance....
Me, too, Auntie Mame. I learned quite a bit about so many things.
Everything you've written is true.
We will post a bit later. And maybe Mr. Liberty will get some of the photos up!!!
Thanks for being your usual wonderful self, AM!
For those who think that way, you are going to be disappointed. I was there this weekend and saw the Free Republic Network in action. It is powerful and it is growing. And everybody who participated is a Freeper. It will not be stopped.
BTT Auntie...
Hoping to be able to attend the next FRN Conference.
My husband, Jim, came with me to the conference, as sort of a vacation, but didn't really plan to get immersed in the serious stuff. When he saw that the first topic was on "Politicians and Politics", he thought he would listen in on that one. Well --it was so good, he stayed for the second lecture, the third, and before you know it, he took part in the whole program!
It was really that good!!
Meeting old friends is always wonderful, but meeting new Freepers is pure delight ---- again it is like meeting strangers who are your friends. How often can people from all over, all ages, all different, be 'one' in an instant?
It was pointed out that the word "National Conference" should be changed to "International Conference". And indeed -- asFreepers ConnieW and Entropy Squared from Canada were in attendance. Again - it was like meeting old friends for the first time! These talented two have created "Free Dominion", and if you've never visited their site, please do. They have provided a haven for Free Republic, when we have cyper problems, here.
I ditto all that Auntie Mame has said. This was indeed a unique experience.
P.S. --My huaband kept trying to get rid of some loose quarters in the slots, but they kept coming back! Try as he could to lighten his pocket, it kept filling up!
All right, all you activists out there. Get ready! The people who attended this conference, a literal "who's who" of FReepers, are all just a tad bit smarter thanks to the Leadership Institute! Not only was the Friday night cocktail party, with newsbabe Laura Ingraham, a rave success. Saturdays educational program and dinner/awards banquet was, shall we say, smashing! Yea baby! :o)
What a joy it was to meet, greet and talk to other freepers in person. The cocktail party was set up 'almost' perfect, but nothing that a group of twenty manly FReepers couldn't correct by moving a 20' banquet table! (with food still on it) I never asked, but I hope the union didn't get 'mad'... hee hee. After the party, we all headed to the Battle Bar in order to mingle before gambling or sleeping, take your pick. Saturday morning came early after the craps table kept me interested until almost 1a. But Matt Lewis from the LI was very good at keeping your interest, even on 4 1/2 hours of sleep.
The Saturday education program was littered with very useful information. From public speaking to 'spinning' (ah, that's how they do it :), to fundraising and dealing with the press(titutes). They are a fantastic organization, though our speedy session was too speedy. We ran through the subjects so fast (mainly because we FReepers had so many great questions), I want to, no, have to go through the training again. (sneak peek) Next year, a more focused program is intented, where we will be able to swallow the information whole. Although, given the low cost, and the LI's willingness to work you into other visits, the FRN Chapters should seriously consider getting on their calendar! (Hint Hint Chicagoland)
The speech by Chuck Muth at lunch was perfect. He gave great insight into his life work, and he is inspirational. I've never subscribed to any of his newsletters, so I was only aware of his recent ascention to the director (or president, it's late, I'm tired ;) of the American Conservative Union. I will make it a point to try and learn more about this man, he is a sturdy individual with views that are based on logic and intellectualism. I'm glad the conference had him as the lunch speaker and panel moderator.
On to the Awards Ceremony and Dinner. Bob J gave a fantastic speech. He surmised, very well, the need for us to work like a team. Go Blue! (inside joke) He used a great role model in Bo Schembechler in identifying just how we can lead the Conservative movement to victories in the politcal stadium. My head was spinning from the thoughts of just how right Bob was. Rich Galen was informative, but I found him kinda dry. I will admit that since I was doing a lot of video, I wasn't able to give him 100% of my attention.
The winners of the awards, Peacerose, representing the CCRM Chapter (Best New Chapter), Sauropod, representing the DC Chapter (Best Chapter), JimRob, representing John Robinson (Lifetime Achievement) and finally Jeff Head (FReeper of the Year), all graciously, and eloquently accepted their awards. I'm sure many of you listened live last night, if you didn't I suggest you watch for the archive. Their words were wonderful and inspiring.
Early today, after I beat the craps table (YEAH), we all met and had a lively discussion. We talked for 2 hours (before I had to leave) about what the conference did for each of us, what we should do next year, and how we should work towards imporoving the effect of the FRN and the many chapters of this great forum.
I'm sure proud to have been part of this wonderful event. I can't begin tell you how impressive these people are. The thoughtfullness of their words, the quality of their questions, and the depth of their experience sure gave me more than I bargained for.
Thanks to all! See you next year!
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nutmeg & zelig
I literally just got home a few minutes ago and am a bit fried right now, as I spent about an hour more in the car than I normally have to due to the construction at D/FW airport. But I did want to get some of my impressions down on "paper" before I have time to cogitate and filter them into complete homogenity. Readers will get a more accurate, honest insight into my experiences during the wonderful 3 days I spent in Vegas if I babble this way. So please excuse the typos, subject-article mismatches, and Tourettes-like rambling that is sure to follow - as they say in the news biz, this is unedited feed.
First off, let me make it perfectly clear that you, Auntie Mame, are an absolute dear. Warm, friendly, and completely dedicated to "the cause," you were a touchstone for me the first time I met a bunch of folks in the flesh that I wasn't completely sure about. And yes, red is most definitely your color.
To be brutally honest, I took this trip primarily on the selfish premise that I'd have a few laughs, and I surely did that in spades during the course of the FRiva. But more importantly, I learned that being successful in countering the lies and prevarications of the left doesn't consist simply of wagging your finger, waving picket signs, and throwing verbal bombs. There are rules and right ways to accomplish this very necessary task, and we surely explored many of these during the course of the weekend, many of which this archer intends to refine and add to his quiver in the coming months.
The Venue
The Treasure Island resort and Las Vegas were the perfect choice for this event. My living quarters were no cabin up a holler, and everyone I ran into in Vegas was friendly, helpful, and completely aware that I was dependent upon the kindness of strangers. Especially on my morning walks in the area of the resort, what struck me was the incredible polyglot of different people and languages I encountered - Japanese tourists, guys walking around in fez and dashiki, fat little German hausfrau toting their camcorders, studly rich kids obviously there on Daddy's credit card, and a wide sampling of the most mouth-watering women on the planet. I know that "diversity" is a dirty word for some, but this small-town Texas boy definitely saw himself some diversity this weekend.
There's a great little sandwich shop right across the street from the TI - I went over there twice to get sustenance when I was feeling penurious.
The Reception (Friday night)
This was simply the mixer to end all mixers. Not only did I get the opportunity to finally associate posting handles with faces, I got the rare privilege of hearing Laura Ingraham speak in person. She captivated the admittedly friendly group with an insightful and incisive speech, with illuminating "inside baseball" observations on politics and her take on conservatism and how Freepers are the tip of the spear at the grass-roots level. I watched a master craftswoman ply her trade Friday night, and it was a thing of beauty to behold.
And yes, the reports are correct - she's built like a brick concession stand. In the opinion of this humble wordsmith, Ann Coulter has nothing on Laura Ingraham (although Laura was not very receptive to my request to pose for photographs with a rifle - work on it).
The Training (Saturday)
There is a new sheriff in town that every Freeper needs to get to know - the Leadership Institute. Matt Lewis and his group as well as Chuck Muth and Nancy Bocskor educated us on a variety of topics that will make us more successful and more efficient. They did it with humor and even some Dutch uncle hectoring when necessary, and the result was magnificent. One of my tasks in the coming days is to distill the copious notes I took during the training into a resource I can use to become better at what I do (whatever that is). As Auntie Mame already pointed out, the LI will be offering seminars in your area in the coming months, and I strongly urge each and every one of you to look into participating. The LI is the real deal.
The Awards Ceremony (Saturday night)
There are some incredibly talented videographers who call themselves Freepers, and we all got the privilege of seeing their best work.
Everyone was dressed to the nines (except yours truly, who some thought was a Secret Service agent). Its the shades - they may look stupid, but I like 'em).
The Folks
Rest easy, gentle reader; your fellow Freepers are good folk. This is not a complete list and is in no particular order; just first impressions.
Taxman. Ex-Navy, so you know he's a right guy. Passionate and articulate.
One Particular Harbour. Friendly and a little bit of a rogue. I liked him instantly.
Sauropod. A no-BS kind of guy, the kind of man you'd follow into battle.
CarryOkie and his adorable daughters. Quite possibly the most striking man appearance-wise I've ever seen. He kind of reminded me of a dapper Bruce Dern (and that's a compliment; Bruce is a fine man in his own right). Uses words and ideas like a surgeon.
Anymouse. Quiet, but its obvious that the lights are on and everybody's home.
Skeet. Eloquence personified.
Jeff Head. Absolutely inspirational speaker. Buy the man's book, tuit suite.
MarcyAZ. She's a mother (the most important job on the planet). She can also wear red and look darned good doing it.
The aforementioned, dear Auntie Mame.
WIMom. She brought me coffee during the "exit meeting" on Sunday morning when my hangover was threatening to turn me into Bruce Banner's big green friend. I still knocked water glasses over on the table when trying to make too forceful a point ;)
Dixie Sass. Incisive. She misses nothing.
BadJoe. THE MAN. He supplied the pens we used at the conference, and is a natural politician. Friendly and approachable.
Diotima and Bob J. The linchpins of this entire gig. They were everywhere, did everything, and are both natural leaders. I am proud to be associated with them.
Maceman. Witty and has interesting life experiences. I enjoyed his company.
And of course, Jim R. Standing ovation, every time. (Besides, he looked cool in the "Terminator" sunglasses I made him wear for a couple of pictures).
Things On My Personal To-Do List
Post some of the pictures I took.
Bump and contribute to the Leadership Council threads.
Find a free, voice-based, reliable private interface for Chapter communications.
Put a "padd" together with voter registration forms, Chapter membership applications, and so on. This will be my constant companion when I browbeat my friends into trying FreeRepublic.
The Summation
I had a great time, came out in the black finance-wise, and didn't kill anybody. Can't ask for more than that.
Now, I'm going to bed. Good night.
Thank you for the report, Auntie Mame! I have been furiously searching the headlines here for the last two days looking for any postings on FRiva. My husband and I listened to the Radio Free Republic archive of the live FRiva broadcast and were also very impressed with Mr. Muth.
We couldn't hear Laura - her speech is "copyrighted" according to the Radio archive - we were *really* bummed about missing her speech!
Pictures! We need PICTURES!
I knew you would get in trouble out there, OPH! (;