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Midwest Geobash 2009 - July 23-26 - Wauseon, Ohio


trippy1976

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http://www.mwgb.org

 

The Midwest Geocaching Foundation is proud to present Midwest Geobash 2009! It’s the year of the Cowboy Chicken, where we go back to basics. We’re taking the event back to Northwest Ohio, where it all began. Come and celebrate this tradition as we take it home for the fifth year anniversary. Thursday we’re going to Harrison Lake, to retire the Flamingo mascot that started it all. Then we head back to the Fulton County Fairgrounds, to enjoy three more days of what Geobash is all about. Fun, fellowship, and friendship will abound with our relaxed atmosphere of camping, socials, and sessions.

 

We’re looking forward to a great 2009. We can’t wait to see you there!

 

MWGF

 

(Registration tentatively set to begin in January 2009)

 

announcements.jpg

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will there be hot dogs?

 

Actually, it's being discussed. Since BAGO is one of our biggest supporters. <_<

 

BAGO is planning on a hospitality tent with free dogs to all comers!! We have just purchased a HUGE double sided gas grill / wood, Charcoal Cooker for our Indiana Chili Tour, which we will utilize... Bring your own mustard! --Event Staff :)

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Can you find Area 51 right now with the snow?

 

Actually, Area 51 is the most accessible place right now. Of course :D

 

Camping is what's currently snowed under, and holding up registration :D

 

TMA

 

I think you like planning things this way :D try going after your cache Ohio Spirit Quest #26: A Little Family History in the snow. You really can't make turns in that place in the snow.

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Can you find Area 51 right now with the snow?

 

Actually, Area 51 is the most accessible place right now. Of course :D

 

Camping is what's currently snowed under, and holding up registration :)

 

TMA

 

I think you like planning things this way :D try going after your cache Ohio Spirit Quest #26: A Little Family History in the snow. You really can't make turns in that place in the snow.

 

WE ARE WATCHING YOU

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Got this notification from the Guys and Gals in charge of the Bash and just wanted to pass it along.....

By the way, only 164 days to THE BASH!!! :D

 

Hi all,

 

For those wondering when registration will open "soon" is the answer. Weather thwarted several planned efforts to go inventory the campground. The good news, the data is in hand and we are now working to update the website so the data and campsite reservation tools are updated for the new venue.

 

So how long? We hope to have everything online in about two weeks, but reserve the right as a volunteer crew to totally delay that :lol:

 

We also have been working on the schedule, the swag, and activities for Friday and Saturday. Our main goal this year is to avoid having too much going on at once so everyone can enjoy everything (as much as possible) and also to focus on doing things *together* much of the time.

 

So hang tight, thanks for your patience, and if you want to take the first step toward registration set up an account at http://mwgb.org as that will be what everyone needs to register.

 

There are some pretty notable changes to the at-event registration process. Before the event, you should register as in past years. When you get to the event - you will not find a registration table. We have done away with it! No more shall volunteers wait behind a desk 10 hours a day to greet you. Instead, wear your lanyard nametags to let everyone know who you are. Those without lanyards will be approached by a welcome wagon of volunteers to say hey and give you info about the event along with a nametag. If you wander a while and no wagon acosts you - head over to the event store (our only event spot with volunteer staff present most of the day) and they will greet you and provide the nametags.

 

There is no "check in" at the event, no lines to stand in before you start having fun, no deadline for free swag, no stress or worry. Just sign up if you are coming and then come. Registration is free and not mandatory but it sure helps us plan on the number of people coming so we know we have enough facilities, food vendors, chairs, firewood, etc.

 

The only reasons you will ABSOLUTELY NEED TO sign up are so you can book camping and pre-buy swag to guarantee your order at will call. If you plan on staying at an area hotel, we'd appreciate it if you could register because as with last year if you register online and give us that info, we'll post rosters which will make it easier for everyone to find what campsites and hotels our friends are at so we can meet up a little easier.

 

We know we'll get to mega so the need to have all out attendees line up to be counted and to trap a half dozen volunteers inside all day just to check names off list is behind us.

 

Feel free to post this and forward it to anyone wondering. Thanks a lot for your patience and see you soon!

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For those who aren't signed up on the mwgb.org website or watching the event on gc.com, here's another update:

 

 

Hello all watchers of the MWGB 2009! Just a note to say we've posted a massive update to the schedule and details about our 20 GPS Unit Giveaway which will be taking place throughout the event.

 

The Friday/Saturday schedule has been fleshed out a little and we're very excited about the activities that have been planned and the ones still in planning stage are looking like a lot of fun. The concept with the activities this year is to bring everyone together to start the activities, send you out to participate if you choose, and then come back together to see the results. This will provide ample opportunity to explore the grounds, the surrounding area and caches, and also to participate in all the activities you choose to.

 

We're looking forward to July!

 

Registration is almost ready. We hope to post it sometime next week but are ironing out some final details about the campgrounds. If you are camping, there is PLENTY of space... you may want to "stake yer claim" early if you hope to camp in a group with a set of sites... but otherwise you can book affordable on-venue camping with great facilities (we won't say "world class" but for the price - you won't do better!) almost right up to the event day.

 

We appreciate early registrations as they help us to plan for the crowd we need to expect.

 

Thanks everyone! See you in July!

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After a week of early access testing for volunteers we are confident that all kinks in the registration have been ironed out (thanks to our volunteers for being test candidates!) and we have thrown the doors wide open!

 

Come to the website http://www.mwgb.org and log in. If you do not have an account, you will need to register on the site first. Then, click the link in the top menu for "REGISTER!" (first item) and you will see the registration page. There are 3 components to a MWGB registration - People, Places and Things.

 

First add people. If you attended and registered in 2008 you should see your previous persons listed in the quick add area. You can click the + button there to quickly add them. Add new people by using the gray highlighted "Add" button.

 

You can register independently or you can have one person manage the registration for your group.

 

Once you add people, you can add places and things. Places tell us where you'll be staying. We use this information to generate reports that will let you see who is staying in your hotel, to help you find friends in the campground, and who is day tripping. This is optional for anyone who is not camping. If you are camping, you will find the link to the camping reservations here.

 

On venue camping is available for the weekend and includes regular sites, 50 amp service sites, and RV sites with full hookups (including sewer) and 30 amp service. We have done our best to note the features of all campsites, but as in the past - the data is compiled by volunteers and it is up to you to confirm the power is compatible with your equipment before plugging in to avoid damage.

 

We have a GREAT lineup of swag designed by Mr. Chris Mackey. We have another really cool shirt design and it will not be white by popular demand :lol: (tentatively planned as a tan shirt) The Geocoin is fantastic as usual, another must have design. And we will be having the trading pins again. This year's set features 6 pins. You can pick up a pack of 6 traders and then cruise the grounds hitting up fellow pin traders to complete your set. As in the past, one pin will only be available from our volunteer crew, so be sure to find them. Say thanks and they will probably trade with you :rolleyes:

 

REMEMBER - MWGB is a completely free event to attend. We pay for all event expenses from the proceeds of our swag sales. So please consider purchasing some swag. Not only is it great stuff, but it keeps MWGB afloat.

 

ALSO REMEMBER - The only way to guarantee the swag you want is to pre-order it from mwgb.org during the open registration period and then pick it up at the event store when you arrive. We order only 15-20% more than what is ordered for will call for sale in the store so we do not end up with lots of extra swag left over. The result of this has been Geocoins and shirts were sold out by Friday evening in 2008 and in 2007 everything was sold out by early Saturday morning. So WE MEAN IT :lol: We don't order a lot extra. Plus - you save money! All pre-purchased swag is discounted over event pricing. So it makes sense for everyone.

 

20 GPS UNIT GIVEAWAY - If you plan on attending MWGB, you will be excited to know that throughout the weekend we will be giving away 20 GPS units. And these aren't cheapies. Made possible by a sponsor! Currently we have 3 dashboard units and 10 Color Legend Cx units and will be lining up the other 7 as the event approaches. Keep an eye on the event schedule to see when GPS units will be awarded. YOU MUST BE PRESENT TO WIN in all cases. Like, immediately present. Not in Wauseon somewhere, not across the grounds :lol:

 

QUESTIONS? - Hit us up via our profile linked from the event page, at info@mwgb.org or post in the forums at http://www.mwgb.org

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:)

Illegal drugs, fireworks, firearms, slingshots, bows and arrows and other propellant devices are not permitted on the event grounds.

Shouldn't this be illegal firearms? I can understand not wanting kids to be shooting rocks and pellets at things but if anyone was planning on shooting a gun there, that policy isn't going to stop them.

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:)

Illegal drugs, fireworks, firearms, slingshots, bows and arrows and other propellant devices are not permitted on the event grounds.

Shouldn't this be illegal firearms? I can understand not wanting kids to be shooting rocks and pellets at things but if anyone was planning on shooting a gun there, that policy isn't going to stop them.

 

No. If it read "illegal firearms" that would imply that legal firearms are permitted. The policy is quite clear as stated. Oh, and it IS true that policies alone won't deter criminals, but I guess one has to assume that geocaching families will play nice.

Edited by Earthdog Patrick
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No. If it read "illegal firearms" that would imply that legal firearms are permitted. The policy is quite clear as stated. Oh, and it IS true that policies alone won't deter criminals, but I guess one has to assume that geocaching families will play nice.

What would be the reasoning on why legal firearms would not be permitted?

 

The students at Columbine and Virginia Tech were playing nice too. Stuff happens and it can happen anytime and anywhere.

 

Because of the nature of the game many geocachers carry firearms. If you could know ahead of time when you would need protection then police officers and citizens across the country would be able to leave their guns at home. They are a pain to lug around. But there is no way of knowing when you might need it.

 

If one would realize that this policy would only benefit criminals then how does that make sense?

 

It would be nice to think geocachers are different than everyone else but someone pointed this out long ago in another thread. Geocachers are no different than everyone else out there.

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This is not the thread in which to have a gun regulation debate. Feel free to open a thread in Off Topic. Reserve this thread for discussing the Midwest Geobash. The fairground rules is what they is.

You are correct. :)

 

If this is a fairground policy then it makes no difference. Ohio fairgrounds cannot have that policy. It is not legal.

 

I am trying to figure out if it is a fairground policy or a MWGB policy. It sounded like a MWGB policy. (Since fairgrounds cannot have that policy.)

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MWGB 2009 has seemed so far away for so long, especially with GW7 "in the neighborhood" this year. It's hard to believe it's just over TWO MONTHS away! In a few short weeks, we'll be seeing many of you when you converge on Fulton County Fairgrounds in Wauseon, Ohio for this 5th annual event! So, while most of us are gearing up for GW7 and making plans for that, please take a moment to register for MWGB if it's in your plans this year :unsure:

 

Registration is not required but is free and helps us plan. If you are coming, visit http://mwgb.org and please take a moment to register your party.

 

Swag! We have some great event swag, most of it designed by Mr. Chris Mackey including our Geocoin and trading pins. ALL proceeds from swag purchases are used for event costs. So not only do you get cool stuff, you support this and future MWGB events with your purchase. Geocoins are available at the event only making them instant "HTF" coins - plus they are really cool thanks to Chris! The trading pins, sponsored by OakCoins, are a favorite of past attendees. There are 6 different pins to collect! Pick up a trade pack in pre-sale or in limited quantities at the store during the event. Don't miss out on the fun of pin trading at MWGB - a great way to meet folks. If you are coming and want swag, please place a will-call order. We order a *very limited* number of extra swag items for sale at the event, they are usually sold out by Friday afternoon.

 

CALL FOR SHIRT VENDORS: We are sending our design out for quotes from various shirt vendors and invite anyone to submit themselves, a friend, or a business you have used in the past for shirts. Please send an email to info@mwgb.org with the title "Shirt Vendor" and we will add that vendor to our contact list. Community referrals mean a lot!

 

Our event schedule is posted on the website. The schedule is updated periodically - if you haven't checked it out lately, it's worth a peek!

 

A record-breaking 152 campsites are already reserved! (previous record: 96) If you haven't booked yet, take a minute - it'll be more fun than ever!

 

MWGB

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TODAY IS THE SWAG CUTOFF

You have officially entered the last minute zone! At least as far as swag is concerned... Today is THE LAST DAY to get in on our excellent event swag. Believe me when I say you don't want to miss out on this ultra cool stuff, especially the trading pins. If you buy nothing else, pick up trader pins - they are excellent fun and a great way to meet people at the event. A trader pack has 6 pins, all alike. The full set is 6 pins, all different. Your goal will be to scour the event looking for other pin traders who you can trade with to complete your set. It's a lot of fun, and if you stop to chat a bit with every person you trade with - it's an excellent way to meet folks.

 

DON'T FORGET TO PAY FOR STUFF

Just selecting stuff isn't enough to reserve it for will call, you need to pay for it too! :laughing: Don't forget to do this!

 

**COFFEE FREAKS - WE NEED YOUR HELP!**

So... the other day we do a schedule run-through and we all realize how daunting the Coffee and Donuts social may be each morning. Donuts are no problem... you pick 'em up and put them out. But Coffee... how do you make coffee for a crowd like this? We've explored lots of options, but if you have ideas and/or equipment (and probably most importantly equipment...) please email us at info@mwgb.org with your input.

 

BTW - Friday and Saturday starts off with a free coffee and donuts social at the Junior Fair Building at 8am! If you can help us avoid getting up at 4am to put the brew on... that would rock :lol:

 

**SCHEDULE ADDITIONS**

When we update the site for the swag cutoff, we'll be adding a few things. First, we have two great new supporters as sponsors. Thank you to Hog Wild Stuff and Trimble Outdoors for their support of MWGB! AND, we're STILL working on great new activities.

 

Thanks to The Pittsburgh Area Geocaching Association for running an ammo can activity for the kids on Friday! Supervised kids under 12 are welcome to participate in this FREE activity and help paint one of 15-20 ammo cans! The cans will then be donated, as decorated, to the silent auction and can be bid on to take home! Parents - stop by the vendor area and visit The Pittsburgh Area Geocaching Association at their table for more ammo cans, Groundspeak Merchandise, and more!

 

Keep checking the schedule. As much planning as goes into this, last minute additions and changes always happen. Stop by http://mwgb.org and check the schedule frequently leading up to the event!

 

GEOCOIN POKER CHALLENGE TOURNAMENT REGISTRATION NOW OPEN

Visit the General Discussion forums at http://mwgb.org to register for the Geocoin Poker Tour. You could win a 120 geocoin pot and a 200 coin custom poker chip set!

 

CAMPING RESERVATION CUTOFF & REGISTRATION CUTOFF

We're going to cut off camping reservations and registration about *July* 15, a month after the swag cutoff. If you miss either of these cutoffs, don't sweat - we have oodles of camping and "just" registration is optional. If you need camping still, just show up and sign into an empty site with an IOU. Pay your IOU at the event store. Camping is standard rate + $15 for at-the-door booking, so sign up today and save $15!

 

REGISTRATION PROGRESS

Registration is free, takes only a moment, and helps us with planning. 970 people have registered so far and 194 campsites have been reserved. Register today at http://mwgb.org to put us over the 1000 (or 1500) mark!

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