A brief recap...
2001, UNN meet in Kansas City, MO.2002, changed name to 240SX National Convention (2nd annual), Los Angeles, CA.2003, 3rd annual in Atlanta, GA.2004, 4th annual in Las Vegas, NV.
Now, not taking into account the success/failure at each event, realistically I want to know two questions:
1) Where do you want to see it happen, and why? (Please don't name a place near to you just because "it is convenient", but rather give pros and cons such as accomidations, entertainment, venue, etc)
2) Who do you recommend personally that has the commitment and the drive to plan such an event, from start to finish?
If I could get everyone's feedback and approval, I would like to help appoint the person(s) in charge of such an event. If you have any other better ideas please feel free to voice your opinions. No flames or unnecessary comments please.
Oh, and normally it is up to the current convention planner to help select who handles the subsequent year's event, but since this year flopped without a resolution I have taken the liberty of helping find next year's location. And this will only be posted on national forums, no regional forums to remove any regional bias.
And in case you are wondering why I have the right to want to help with this... or feel the need, I planned the 2002 event:http://www.socal240sx.org/convention2002
Fire away fellows.
-alex
2005 240SX National convention location discussion
Why not make the '05 in Vegas? Not planned on the same weekend as a major drift event.
It would be nice to see a proper event take place, but I'm reminded daily of why it will not. The core group is solid, but the community is split into too many groups, all of which are low on money and time and interest in such an event. Them's the facts. If it were different we wouldn't be talking about failed conventions in the first place.
NICO's '05 All Nissan Nationals in TX will be a big hit, because instead of singularly aiming at one group, we're welcoming all Nissan/Infiniti models to join in the fun. Greater inclusion means greater publicity means greater success.
It would be nice to see a proper event take place, but I'm reminded daily of why it will not. The core group is solid, but the community is split into too many groups, all of which are low on money and time and interest in such an event. Them's the facts. If it were different we wouldn't be talking about failed conventions in the first place.
NICO's '05 All Nissan Nationals in TX will be a big hit, because instead of singularly aiming at one group, we're welcoming all Nissan/Infiniti models to join in the fun. Greater inclusion means greater publicity means greater success.
I had high hopes for this year's convention, but the turnout was a disappointment for all. I still believe Las Vegas is a great venue to host an event, as there are many activities available here. I think as long as you can convince the people that it won't be a failure, Las Vegas is a great place to host the convention.
BTW..I may be able to help in the way of graphic design. If you need someone, Shoot me an email at [email protected] I made a design for the 2004 convention, but since it was a failure the image wasn't used. If you would like, I can show you the image.
EDIT: I don't know anyone personally that could handle the task of managing such an event, but Greg [AZHitman] is very well trusted in the community.
BTW..I may be able to help in the way of graphic design. If you need someone, Shoot me an email at [email protected] I made a design for the 2004 convention, but since it was a failure the image wasn't used. If you would like, I can show you the image.
EDIT: I don't know anyone personally that could handle the task of managing such an event, but Greg [AZHitman] is very well trusted in the community.
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BuudWeizErr
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Bottom line is that if you want it to be big and/or successful, it has to be in southern california. Atlanta didn't work, Vegas didn't work, and I'm not going to hold my breath for a NE or midwest event to work out.
If it gets held in socal, like it needs to be, then we need to get either Buttonwillow or Willow Springs. And now that WSIR is allowing drifting on at least the balcony, it will be appealing to most of the populous.
I was thinking having a track day at Buttonwillow and then a party on the beach somewhere west of Buttonwillow would be cool.
Organizer... see how the upcoming NICO national meet works out, then maybe Greg would help out, that meet seems to be pretty well organized.
If it gets held in socal, like it needs to be, then we need to get either Buttonwillow or Willow Springs. And now that WSIR is allowing drifting on at least the balcony, it will be appealing to most of the populous.
I was thinking having a track day at Buttonwillow and then a party on the beach somewhere west of Buttonwillow would be cool.
Organizer... see how the upcoming NICO national meet works out, then maybe Greg would help out, that meet seems to be pretty well organized.
But that really wouldn't fare too well as a "National" convention--just another SoCal/"Left Coast" meet. Atleast Vegas was slightly more central.
Being isolated in the middle of the Pacific can suck at times, then I go outside and realize it's better weather than a California spring 365 days a year and no emissions testing.
Being isolated in the middle of the Pacific can suck at times, then I go outside and realize it's better weather than a California spring 365 days a year and no emissions testing.
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BuudWeizErr
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Re: (SeVa-S13)
you guys had your chance, ATL was a failure, socal was a resounding success.
Guys, this is NOT a discussion of what was a failure of past events. Also please do not compare location.
Please give me concrete reasons as to why one location is better than another, and leave it at that.
As for "waiting" for someone to plan an event to see how it works out.... the NICO event is in March 2005. If one wishes to plan a 240SX convention on any semi-large scale, it needs to be started NOW. Trust me when I say, December 31st is an important deadline. That's why many companies close sponsorship requests for the 2005 race season.
Just FYI.
-alex
Please give me concrete reasons as to why one location is better than another, and leave it at that.
As for "waiting" for someone to plan an event to see how it works out.... the NICO event is in March 2005. If one wishes to plan a 240SX convention on any semi-large scale, it needs to be started NOW. Trust me when I say, December 31st is an important deadline. That's why many companies close sponsorship requests for the 2005 race season.
Just FYI.
-alex
1. Vegas -make it work this time2. SoCal
Just hold it in SoCal, home of the pick-up only dealers.. I mean, mecca of sport compact industry
Call it a national convention. It's not your fault if east coast can't make it to your meet.
Any meet that costs a 240sx owner money is a flopAny meet that costs a 240sx owner vacation is doomedAny meet that isn't planned in a given 240sx owner's hometown, he will not attend.
These are the problems facing the organizers of national events, for clubs that are predominantly filled by the working class. One mustn't confuse 240sx following with, for instance, the older more devoted Z club.
Just hold it in SoCal, home of the pick-up only dealers.. I mean, mecca of sport compact industry
Call it a national convention. It's not your fault if east coast can't make it to your meet.
Any meet that costs a 240sx owner money is a flopAny meet that costs a 240sx owner vacation is doomedAny meet that isn't planned in a given 240sx owner's hometown, he will not attend.
These are the problems facing the organizers of national events, for clubs that are predominantly filled by the working class. One mustn't confuse 240sx following with, for instance, the older more devoted Z club.
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AZhitman
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Phoenix DOES make sense.
However, I was kind of hoping that the Nissan Nationals would draw the 240sx crowd.
Either way, it stands to reason that the owners of 240sx.org (largest 240 forum in existence) would be the most involved in planning and organizing (and that was a prime reason why Vegas didn't happen - we were kept out).
Sorry, didn't mean to go off-topic.
Phoenix would be primo. No weather concerns, great tracks and venues, plenty to do, cheap to fly into, and a strong local 240 scene.
However, I was kind of hoping that the Nissan Nationals would draw the 240sx crowd.
Either way, it stands to reason that the owners of 240sx.org (largest 240 forum in existence) would be the most involved in planning and organizing (and that was a prime reason why Vegas didn't happen - we were kept out).
Sorry, didn't mean to go off-topic.
Phoenix would be primo. No weather concerns, great tracks and venues, plenty to do, cheap to fly into, and a strong local 240 scene.
Re: (ChunkiDori)
I have to agree with Chunki here...Socal was a great convention...My furst with my 240...
I think a location, wherever held, should be:
1. Close to a track. 2. Have afforable accomadations in the surrounding area3. Have weather that will be most conducive for a "show & track" event. (or the most reliably predictable)
Fortunately only three places come to mind, in the order of my preference.
1. Southern California...(we have hot women and a large 240 community)2. Las Vegas ( I thought the idea was good...track near by, and fun fun fun!)3. Phoenix (hey they have a track, and the weather should be good)
I just cannot think of any East Coast locations that fit the above bill, but than again, I don't live back east either.
I think a location, wherever held, should be:
1. Close to a track. 2. Have afforable accomadations in the surrounding area3. Have weather that will be most conducive for a "show & track" event. (or the most reliably predictable)
Fortunately only three places come to mind, in the order of my preference.
1. Southern California...(we have hot women and a large 240 community)2. Las Vegas ( I thought the idea was good...track near by, and fun fun fun!)3. Phoenix (hey they have a track, and the weather should be good)
I just cannot think of any East Coast locations that fit the above bill, but than again, I don't live back east either.
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BuudWeizErr
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Re: (ChunkiDori)
Yeah I'm goin to have to agree with Phoenix.
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Re: 2005 240SX National convention location discussion (mav1178)
how about chitown? close to a drag stirp and a nascar type track and a place that had a drift area. there are more then enough hotelsfun city to go tochi-town anyone?
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Doomed2Walk
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I was just going to suggest that. Nothing beats cruising down LSD (Lake Shore Drive) with the lake on one side and skyscrapers (rush hour can drive you insane however) on the other. If you need a place for venues etc. there's always McCormick Place.
Oh it's also in the middle of the country so no need to go cross-country for the event.
Oh it's also in the middle of the country so no need to go cross-country for the event.
Re: (Doomed2Walk)
First off, before I continue I would like to note that this same topic is posted on NICO, Zilvia, Freshalloy, and the 240-chat mailing list.
I think many of you are confused; this is not really a popularity vote on where it should be, but rather picking a place and making the best out of what we can do. A convention does not have to be like any other convention that we are used to seeing; if anything it could just be an oversized meet. But when one plans an event, they have to think about the "what it is worth" factor to attendees.
Put yourselves in the shoes of potential attendees, then ask yourself: If I lived in SoCal and there was a planned event in NY, what criteria must it have for me to want to go? Do I want to drive or fly there? Aside from hanging out with people, what would the event offer that would make me go? Often you'll find that just saying "meeting friends to hang out" is not enough to make someone go cross country. Things like this are the reason why having a convention in a location that is considered a tourist attraction is desired; aside from the event, out-of-towners can also visit a city they haven't been to, or find their own "must do" list of things in town.
So far, sadly no one has indicated they or someone they know would be willing to step forward to plan the event, but that still does not deter me from wanting to help find someone to lead an event for 2005. I have been asked, both publically and privately, to do a convention for '05, but I must emphasize the fact that I do not wish to have it in SoCal FOR THE SOLE REASON OF KEEPING THE PEACE. Our community is fragmented in many pieces, and there is no realistic way to unify the different groups, except through the convention, and frankly I want to see it as a neutral event that is INCLUSIVE of all the different forums, clubs, and groups that cater to 240SX enthusiasts. And in an effort to appease the rest of the country, I would rather see it somewhere outside of NV/CA/AZ so it can become an unity event instead of just another "west coast" or "east coast" event.
I hope you understand this point, because all I have seen so far are bickering over semantics that have almost no relevance to the issue at hand. Perhaps I am daydreaming too much; perhaps all this is a hopeless cause. Someone slap me if that is the case.
So my original two questions STILL STAND. In fact, I invite you to email me in private and GIVE ME YOUR REASONING and please help find someone to want to plan such an event in your region. [email protected] (or if you want, you can email me at my old and still functioning email address [email protected])
--------------------------------------------------
Now, onto addressing individual issues:
And if we wait until after the March '05 meet to plan, I already guarantee a disaster b/c there isn't enough time, and to get corporate support many companies require a sponsorship proposal by Dec 31st of this year for the 05 race season.
Please keep in mind that my idea(s) for the convention may be many, but I do wish to keep it as an event that is INCLUSIVE of all the different groups. No political BS. Others may view it differently, they have their own loyalties... but if you cannot see it from a neutral ground or be unbiased then the event will doom because you are essentially alienating people outside of your group.
So, no political BS please. A national convention for 240SX owners should be neutral and inclusive of all groups, regardless of their past animosities.
Again, keep the discussion going. The mere fact that so many people have voiced their opinion means there is hope. And please do not make it seem like one group is superior to another. Everyone is equal in my view.
-alex
I think many of you are confused; this is not really a popularity vote on where it should be, but rather picking a place and making the best out of what we can do. A convention does not have to be like any other convention that we are used to seeing; if anything it could just be an oversized meet. But when one plans an event, they have to think about the "what it is worth" factor to attendees.
Put yourselves in the shoes of potential attendees, then ask yourself: If I lived in SoCal and there was a planned event in NY, what criteria must it have for me to want to go? Do I want to drive or fly there? Aside from hanging out with people, what would the event offer that would make me go? Often you'll find that just saying "meeting friends to hang out" is not enough to make someone go cross country. Things like this are the reason why having a convention in a location that is considered a tourist attraction is desired; aside from the event, out-of-towners can also visit a city they haven't been to, or find their own "must do" list of things in town.
So far, sadly no one has indicated they or someone they know would be willing to step forward to plan the event, but that still does not deter me from wanting to help find someone to lead an event for 2005. I have been asked, both publically and privately, to do a convention for '05, but I must emphasize the fact that I do not wish to have it in SoCal FOR THE SOLE REASON OF KEEPING THE PEACE. Our community is fragmented in many pieces, and there is no realistic way to unify the different groups, except through the convention, and frankly I want to see it as a neutral event that is INCLUSIVE of all the different forums, clubs, and groups that cater to 240SX enthusiasts. And in an effort to appease the rest of the country, I would rather see it somewhere outside of NV/CA/AZ so it can become an unity event instead of just another "west coast" or "east coast" event.
I hope you understand this point, because all I have seen so far are bickering over semantics that have almost no relevance to the issue at hand. Perhaps I am daydreaming too much; perhaps all this is a hopeless cause. Someone slap me if that is the case.
So my original two questions STILL STAND. In fact, I invite you to email me in private and GIVE ME YOUR REASONING and please help find someone to want to plan such an event in your region. [email protected] (or if you want, you can email me at my old and still functioning email address [email protected])
--------------------------------------------------
Now, onto addressing individual issues:
The convention was announced in September/October.... Formula D was announced at SEMA but the date for Irwindale was not done until December. If anything, it was a failure between different groups to communicate about their plans. I am in the process of planning an event for SoCal for '05 and right now I have to try to negotiate with 3 different series to make sure there are no scheduling conflicts. Not cool at all...SmithSR wrote:Why not make the '05 in Vegas? Not planned on the same weekend as a major drift event.
I have love for Nissan owners in general, but personally I feel like I am in a position where I can do a great deal of things for 240SX owners in particular. I've had a 240 since 1996; I've been involved since 1998, and I've pretty much seen it all since 1997. Hence my desire to want to do something about this current situation.SmithSR wrote:It would be nice to see a proper event take place, but I'm reminded daily of why it will not. The core group is solid, but the community is split into too many groups, all of which are low on money and time and interest in such an event. Them's the facts. If it were different we wouldn't be talking about failed conventions in the first place.
NICO's '05 All Nissan Nationals in TX will be a big hit, because instead of singularly aiming at one group, we're welcoming all Nissan/Infiniti models to join in the fun. Greater inclusion means greater publicity means greater success.
I agree; but for sake of rotating the venue I would rather see it somewhere in the midwest or east coast. But so far no one in those areas wants to step up and plan.VmaN! wrote:I had high hopes for this year's convention, but the turnout was a disappointment for all. I still believe Las Vegas is a great venue to host an event, as there are many activities available here. I think as long as you can convince the people that it won't be a failure, Las Vegas is a great place to host the convention.
It doesn't have to be in SoCal for it to work out; all it takes is good planning.ChunkiDori wrote:Bottom line is that if you want it to be big and/or successful, it has to be in southern california. Atlanta didn't work, Vegas didn't work, and I'm not going to hold my breath for a NE or midwest event to work out.
..........
Organizer... see how the upcoming NICO national meet works out, then maybe Greg would help out, that meet seems to be pretty well organized.
And if we wait until after the March '05 meet to plan, I already guarantee a disaster b/c there isn't enough time, and to get corporate support many companies require a sponsorship proposal by Dec 31st of this year for the 05 race season.
See above.ChunkiDori wrote:you guys had your chance, ATL was a failure, socal was a resounding success.
Again, it's about planning. And it is up to the event organizer to figure out what a convention is about... it does NOT have to be planned around a track event, but that certainly helps the attendee in terms of attractiveness.SmithSR wrote:1. Vegas -make it work this time2. SoCal
Just hold it in SoCal, home of the pick-up only dealers.. I mean, mecca of sport compact industry
Call it a national convention. It's not your fault if east coast can't make it to your meet.
Any meet that costs a 240sx owner money is a flopAny meet that costs a 240sx owner vacation is doomedAny meet that isn't planned in a given 240sx owner's hometown, he will not attend.
These are the problems facing the organizers of national events, for clubs that are predominantly filled by the working class. One mustn't confuse 240sx following with, for instance, the older more devoted Z club.
So assuming your reasoning is correct...... if I planned a '05 convention, it is doomed to fail? Or the possibility of it failing would be high?AZhitman wrote:
Either way, it stands to reason that the owners of 240sx.org (largest 240 forum in existence) would be the most involved in planning and organizing (and that was a prime reason why Vegas didn't happen - we were kept out).
Please keep in mind that my idea(s) for the convention may be many, but I do wish to keep it as an event that is INCLUSIVE of all the different groups. No political BS. Others may view it differently, they have their own loyalties... but if you cannot see it from a neutral ground or be unbiased then the event will doom because you are essentially alienating people outside of your group.
So, no political BS please. A national convention for 240SX owners should be neutral and inclusive of all groups, regardless of their past animosities.
Again, keep the discussion going. The mere fact that so many people have voiced their opinion means there is hope. And please do not make it seem like one group is superior to another. Everyone is equal in my view.
-alex
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AZhitman
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Alex - I don't disagree at all with what you're saying. I too, have run into the divisiveness and bickering that has existed for FAR too long.
I was kind of hoping that the 05 Nationals in Dallas would be viewed as a 240sx national meet. I'm all about bringing the different forums / groups together, which is why we have billed it as an All Nissan Nationals, not the NICO Nationals.
I covet (and expect) assistance and participation from ALL the forums, and Dallas seemed to be a good neutral location.
The fact of the matter is, the 240 demographic is NOT the Miata/Porsche/Corvette demographic. The money is simply not there. However, that doesn't mean we can't put something together.
I would be very willing to assist in planning something for 05, but I also know that we have invested significant time, $ and effort into March 15 in Dallas, and we could really blow the doors off if we come together on it.
Again, let me reiterate - No more divisiveness. All are welcome.
I was kind of hoping that the 05 Nationals in Dallas would be viewed as a 240sx national meet. I'm all about bringing the different forums / groups together, which is why we have billed it as an All Nissan Nationals, not the NICO Nationals.
I covet (and expect) assistance and participation from ALL the forums, and Dallas seemed to be a good neutral location.
The fact of the matter is, the 240 demographic is NOT the Miata/Porsche/Corvette demographic. The money is simply not there. However, that doesn't mean we can't put something together.
I would be very willing to assist in planning something for 05, but I also know that we have invested significant time, $ and effort into March 15 in Dallas, and we could really blow the doors off if we come together on it.
Again, let me reiterate - No more divisiveness. All are welcome.
Re: (AZhitman)
Then why is it still advertised as a NICO/240SX.org 2005 Convention?AZhitman wrote:I was kind of hoping that the 05 Nationals in Dallas would be viewed as a 240sx national meet. I'm all about bringing the different forums / groups together, which is why we have billed it as an All Nissan Nationals, not the NICO Nationals.
My point is, if one single group is put on as the main promoters behind that event, and if that group has any bias towards any single major forum right now, it will not be inclusive.
-alex
I believe we should have at Atlantic City, NJ
REASONS:
1. Close to Englishtown Raceway Park2. Close to Atco Raceway Drag Strip3. Amazing Nightlife4. Casino's Casino's5. Huge cruise strip ( 1 road that bascially connects the whole NJ coast )
I can keep going on and on. Also, we could drive to New York City ( 1hr 20mins ).
REASONS:
1. Close to Englishtown Raceway Park2. Close to Atco Raceway Drag Strip3. Amazing Nightlife4. Casino's Casino's5. Huge cruise strip ( 1 road that bascially connects the whole NJ coast )
I can keep going on and on. Also, we could drive to New York City ( 1hr 20mins ).
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AZhitman
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*sigh*
Well, who the heck else is gonna front the nearly $6K for a track, insurance, deposits, etc.?I'm MORE than happy to bill it as a Zilvia/NICO/FA Nationals - if and when they step up and agree to work together. I don't need the glory, I just want to see a HUGE and successful turnout.
The counterpoint to that is if any group has any bias AGAINST 240sx.org, then that's their issue, and they need to get over it.
Until they get over that, it'll never change.
Well, who the heck else is gonna front the nearly $6K for a track, insurance, deposits, etc.?I'm MORE than happy to bill it as a Zilvia/NICO/FA Nationals - if and when they step up and agree to work together. I don't need the glory, I just want to see a HUGE and successful turnout.
The counterpoint to that is if any group has any bias AGAINST 240sx.org, then that's their issue, and they need to get over it.
Until they get over that, it'll never change.
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Re: (AZhitman)
Werd.
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Re: (nismodave)
i vote the dallas ft worth area.
there is a track: http://www.texasmotorspeedway.com/default.asp
plus, there is shopping for the women who don't want to watch the cars, not to mention decent night life. it is also a relativly central location with relativly mild weather (late fall/early spring ideal time).
personaly i would love to see a large scale nissan or 240sx meet. i am not sure what all the drama is with the 2k4 one that was canceled or whatever (and really dont' care, sounds like alot of childish BS to me from what little i have gathered)
but no matter where it is, there are going to be people who are going to be unhappy about where it is.
i don't know of anyone personaly that would be able to cordinate it (i would, but i don't have the tiem being a college student, nor the finances or connections to make it happen)
but... you coudl talk to the texas chapter of the NASA and see if they have any suggestions. i have been to one of their drift events, and many of the people in our local nissan club have been on multiple occasions (they were in mineral wells, Tx, just outside of dallas)
there is a track: http://www.texasmotorspeedway.com/default.asp
plus, there is shopping for the women who don't want to watch the cars, not to mention decent night life. it is also a relativly central location with relativly mild weather (late fall/early spring ideal time).
personaly i would love to see a large scale nissan or 240sx meet. i am not sure what all the drama is with the 2k4 one that was canceled or whatever (and really dont' care, sounds like alot of childish BS to me from what little i have gathered)
but no matter where it is, there are going to be people who are going to be unhappy about where it is.
i don't know of anyone personaly that would be able to cordinate it (i would, but i don't have the tiem being a college student, nor the finances or connections to make it happen)
but... you coudl talk to the texas chapter of the NASA and see if they have any suggestions. i have been to one of their drift events, and many of the people in our local nissan club have been on multiple occasions (they were in mineral wells, Tx, just outside of dallas)