I had the oppurtunity to visit Neil's parents home this evening and I do feel it can be very conducive for a meet. Looking at the last San Meteo Meet, it was said that there were 25 participants or so. I am certain that Neil's parents' home is more than able to accomodate us (gear, tables, chairs and all). Given the lay out of the home, it is also possible to have a couple "mini" meets of sorts within the main meet, if anyone is interested in doing any comparisons, shootouts, tests or whatever. Or simply if people want to talk, there is less intrusion on those who want to listen as, simply put the place is huge. Heck a group could check out his parent's home theater set up if they wanted and they could jusut talk in there as well. In essence, even in the context of 30 people or so, I think that there would be more than sufficient space. And I think given the logistical issues, I think that there would be more space availabe for us to function at Neil's place, unless of course we took over a couple of the meeting rooms and such at the tea place.
And just a couple note and questions, one of the "advantages" that was brought up in support of the San Mateo location is that food and drinks are readily available. What type of items are we talking about? Are we talking about prepared dishes and assets like restaurants that are close by. Or are we talkng about less formal items like soda, chips and such? If it's more generic items; soda chips and the like, I could always make a trip to the super market/s, if needed.
Now just a few thigs that I've noticed reading through the old San Mateo meet threads, both the impressions and preparation. One thing is There was a liability waiver that needed to be signed. While that is understandable, I also understand that there was quite a few people who didn't sign that waiver. Doesn't that basically disqualify them from participating in the meet? Also on the issue of the cover charge, I think that if there is any money to be spent at this meet, it should mainly be going to headfi. In short, I think bringng an external party into the equation, should be avided if possible.
Also, just looking at the pics of the orignal San Mateo Meet it seemed that much of the parking available, is metered, which can pose its own issues as well.
In addition, kind of an issue that we've put on the back burner, but I feel we should be working just as hard to set down a concrete date for the meet or even if we narrow down if it's going on a Saturday or Sunday, as that can also pose some issues with people.
In any case those are some random thoughts that were in my head.
That's where my vote's going.
