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OneNickelMiracle and I are dually organizing the WoVCon East III event to be held the weekend of Saturday April 29th, 2017, to take place on that Saturday, or on Sunday April 30th, 2017.
OneNickelMiracle created a thread, but I wanted to organize a more properly titled thread and poll, so here we are. Of course, the poll results will not really finalize anything and any plans for location will likely be cemented by open (posted) vote in March. I would like to get a solid day decided upon sooner than that, though.
First, I will quote ONM's OP from the closed thread:
Quote:OneNickelMiracle
My great aunt died two months ago and I found out in a letter today. We had a meet up in 2013 and it is time again. I always thought I'd see my aunt again, but never did, so lets do this. Everyone is invited but Evenbob unless Evenbob agrees to show up, then he will be invited.There will be free punch and pie.
Sorry, one cheeseburger per park resident.
Will you come? Ideas, suggestions?
I believe that the first thing we should do is get together and decide upon a venue, as I don't know that Rivers is necessarily a great choice, but if it wins out, then it is the best choice. We also must decide on what day, in general terms, would be best for everyone as the primary goal should be to get as many attendees as possible.
Venues
The first thing that I would like to do is take a look at potential venues for this bad boy, because (in one man's opinion) Rivers is not among the top options that I would consider the best for this affair.
Rivers-Pittsburgh
Pros:
1.) Great buffet.
2.) Uber/Lyft are readily available in Pittsburgh, very quick and very reasonably priced to get to your hotel if you want to drink. Hell, even the actual Yellow Cab type companies aren't that bad, price-wise.
Cons:
1.) Depending on the time of the event, I-376 W may be a serious PITA for anyone coming from the East, it's pretty much a serious PITA all the time. Also, Rivers isn't really connected to a hotel and only really comps high rollers, so you can forget about getting any stay for your play. The hotels in Downtown Pittsburgh are way more expensive than they are worth, but there are a few hotels on Banksville Road (about a ten-fifteen minute drive, depending on time of day) that are reasonably priced.
2.) Rivers does not offer free alcoholic drinks of any kind unless you are gambling substantial amounts.
3.) For you non-smokers, you should keep in mind that the only self-serve beverage area in the entire casino is located smack in the smoking section. Secondly, smoking tables are so close to non-smoking tables as to effectively not make much of a difference.
4.) While there is USUALLY a $5 Craps or $5 BJ game going, that's not always the case. Furthermore, those tables are absolutely packed, so if we want to do another Craps thing, you can forget about us getting our own table. It's not going to happen. TeddyS and I recently visited the Rivers and thought about playing some $5 Craps or $5 BJ, couldn't find anywhere with two positions open.
5.) The customer service sucks, the security people are the friendliest people in the casino.
6.) For those of you with no Rush Rewards card, any new member offers (if any) will be nearly worthless, unless something drastically changes by then.
The Meadows-Washington, PA
PROS:
1.) We held the first WoV-East there, and I consider that a very successful event.
2.) They almost always have $5 tables, and they even opened a second table that day to accommodate us (a Sunday) during a time that only one table would have typically been going.
3.) The food options on-site are fairly expensive, and not that good (other than the food court), but there are plenty of options nearby, and we did manage to have a special table at the whatever it was restaurant at the whatever it was hotel for our event. There are even more food options now, and there is now a hotel connected to the casino.
4.) Certain drinks are free if you are playing, mostly beer, but better than nothing.
5.) There are many hotels near the Meadows and Meadows Security also doubles as a hotel shuttle for anyone who wishes to drink.
6.) The location should be good for everyone, it is convenient to I-70, so those coming from the East taking the I-76 PA Turnpike could just drop down to 70 prior to hitting Pittsburgh. I forget what mile marker that exit is, it's the one before 57.
7.) The New Member offers change pretty often, so it's tough to say what might be going.
8.) The hotels sometimes have a coupon book with $5 Free Play, $5 Match Play, $5-$10 off food, but it's kind of hit or miss whether or not the hotels will be out of books. I also don't know that Meadows, under new ownership, is doing those anymore as I haven't stayed at a hotel nearby recently. ***
***Just called and Comfort Inn, for one, still has the books. That's as many as I'm calling until we get closer to the day. You could probably stop in and ask for one if you really wanted to, I don't recall ever being asked what room I was in or anything.
CONS:
1.) I may be banned from there, but I may not be, ownership has changed so I'm not sure how that works. Someone else will have to do organizing (ONM) when it comes to getting us our own Craps Table if that is still possible. I'm not really going to press the issue of whether or not I am still banned from there unless it becomes necessary.
2.) It's probably not as aesthetically appealing as Rivers, but I'm not sure how much that matters.
Wheeling Island Hotel, Casino, Racetrack-Wheeling, WV
Pros:
1.) The buffet is cheap, but very hit or miss. The burgers at the food court are decent. Plenty of good dining options nearby, and easy to get to. Figaretti's has unbelievable Italian food and is about a ten minute drive.
2.) Plenty of affordable hotels nearby, and VERY easy to get a free night at the Island on Sunday-Thursday if they are not sold out. If we do this on a Saturday, you could even earn a room and use it on a Sunday if you feel like it. The rooms at The Island are really nice.
3.) Table minimums are basically $5 across the board, except on some Friday and Saturday nights when they decide they would rather have tables without players. It wouldn't be so bad, except they keep the minimums up well into the wee hours of the morning...for absolutely no discernible reason. Much better place to go on a Sunday.
4.) It is right off of I-70, exceptionally convenient.
5.) Very easy parking, but you have to be Platinum or better to use the garage, the outside parking is easier, anyway. The garage is kind of a PITA sometimes.
6.) They have had the same New Member offer of $20 Free Play + $5 for an E-Mail + $5 for downloading the Lucky North Casino app for YEARS, so anyone who hasn't been there essentially gets $30 Free Play. I doubt that will change.
Cons:
1.) In fairness, it's kind of a dump, just a dump with really nice rooms. They just got new chairs, though. Those are nice, some other casino must have had a liquidation sale, maybe they came from the Taj. I think it had to be a liquidation sale, or something similar, because they don't match the color scheme of the place at all.
2.) Overall, I must say, the food sucks. I'd rather roll dice at the Craps Table than at the buffet, though Sunday Brunch is usually reasonably good. We'd probably want to eat offsite either way, the Sunday Brunch isn't THAT good, just edible.
3.) The area surrounding the casino seems scary, but it's really not. Some people might be put off, though.
4.) Drinks are not free. They never will be. Drinks are (somehow) more expensive than at Rivers, don't know what they think justifies that.
5.) We probably won't get our own Craps Table, there is usually only one ever open, and on a Sunday, it's usually empty. It would be packed on Fri/Sat, though, and even if we explained the situation, I don't think they'd open another one. Actually, I think they may only have one now that they got the E-Craps Shoot-to-Lose in. They may still have two, I'd have to look, I've only seen more than one open (before they got the Bubble Craps) once in my life.***
***I will say that if they do have two physical Craps tables (I'll check) I probably could get us our own table. If we do a Sunday afternoon, it probably won't matter.
It is true, the craps table is the most important feature for this event. However, at this point, we don't know who will accommodate us yet or not accommodate us. We had luck getting a table at Meadows, assume they will again, but they might not. A true decision cannot be made until we have time to find out, so keep an open mind until then. With enough advanced time, all of them may agree.
I don't want to go to Meadows, because most pay tables are Caesars quality 6/5. Meadows absolutely defrauded me on a loss rebate and I don't want to go back until I get my $100. It's big too needing lots of walking. It is still my second choice no matter what.
I chose the Rivers just because it's safe for everyone. It's a beautiful casino, located in a beautiful city (Browns fan here), with more options close by. I feel comfortable there in the casino. At the buffet, we could sit outside on the balcony, viewing downtown and the river, on a sunny 70 degree day. The craps table is a deal breaker, but we don't know yet what the answer will be. The waitresses are prettiest here and if Saturday night, patrons too. The other places, not so much.
I would prefer Saturday. One reason is it gives people time who need to get back home so they can work Monday morning. People driving so far away from home would be relieved not having to leave early Sunday or having to lose sleep Sunday night. Saturday night is so much more exciting when the night is young and responsibility is two days away. The out of towners can enjoy their trip fully and have plenty of time getting back Sunday. I automatically assume the event is ruined without a craps table, but that's not necessarily true. We can occupy some other kinds of tables while some sit behind who don't want to play, or two adjacent tables. I bet a good event depends on the craps table though. Lets see what happens. I'm optimistic being so early we'll be told yes or there is time to get a yes.
There will be a spring Fling near this time. There might be one or 2 people that would come here if that wasn't same time so we should probably try to avoid that conflict. I am lobying for spring Fling to be April 7th since I will be there that weekend.
Let me know when and I'll block it off in the schedule.
tldr: Rivers has more pizzaz, where as meadows will probably be easier/cheaper for the meetup.
Quote: onenickelmiracleWell, Mission forgot to mention a pro for Wheeling, you can walk across the parking lot to a strip club where you can gamble on what $200 will buy. It's West Virginia, expect a lot.
I think I just puked in my mouth a little.
Quote:It is true, the craps table is the most important feature for this event. However, at this point, we don't know who will accommodate us yet or not accommodate us. We had luck getting a table at Meadows, assume they will again, but they might not. A true decision cannot be made until we have time to find out, so keep an open mind until then. With enough advanced time, all of them may agree.
I'm telling you that if we do this on a Saturday, we are not going to get a Craps table at Rivers, unless perhaps in the wee hours of the morning. The tables are always packed, I guess we could stand around and wait for people to leave, and then after three hours or so, we might all be on the same Craps table.
Maybe we could arrange for our own table there, if Rivers is chosen I would request you take the point on that, I hate dealing with those people. I can never get a straight answer about anything, even simple stuff.
Quote:I don't want to go to Meadows, because most pay tables are Caesars quality 6/5. Meadows absolutely defrauded me on a loss rebate and I don't want to go back until I get my $100. It's big too needing lots of walking. It is still my second choice no matter what.
Rivers only has a few machines with decent paytables, although, I will say that the bartops have 98.43% Jokers (Kings) for quarters, so you could do worse than that. No free drinks (or even discounts) for playing, though.
Quote:I chose the Rivers just because it's safe for everyone. It's a beautiful casino, located in a beautiful city (Browns fan here), with more options close by. I feel comfortable there in the casino. At the buffet, we could sit outside on the balcony, viewing downtown and the river, on a sunny 70 degree day. The craps table is a deal breaker, but we don't know yet what the answer will be. The waitresses are prettiest here and if Saturday night, patrons too. The other places, not so much.
I wouldn't say, 'Beautiful,' though it is, by far, the most aesthetically appealing of the three. It's definitely the cleanest, but in terms of aesthetics/theme, it's nothing special at all.
Quote:I would prefer Saturday.
Sunday would be a better value day, but I could see why some might want to do Saturday.
I also think Lady Luck Nemacolin is arguably a good location for this, just that it's a pain in the ass to get to. I think we would have our group get more special accommodations there (our own table) than anywhere, though.
Quote: GWAEThere used to be a decent contigency of Pittsburgh people here, is that still the case? I am all for a Pittsburgh meet up but is something like rocky gap or the likes a better option for travelers? My vote is for local since it is easier but just throwing it out there.
There will be a spring Fling near this time. There might be one or 2 people that would come here if that wasn't same time so we should probably try to avoid that conflict. I am lobying for spring Fling to be April 7th since I will be there that weekend.
That is still the case, in fact, if you look at within 100 (or so) miles of Pittsburgh, here is who I think will attend:
GWAE
OneNickelMiracle
DeeDubbs
TeddyS
Mission146
AZDuffman
JohnnyQ (I would expect)
I don't know if Wrongway would come again, since he doesn't post here very frequently. There are probably a few more from this general area, and then you get into looking at spouses/girlfriends/significant others and I would definitely suggest that the Greater Pittsburgh area is where several of our attendees are centered.
Quote: RomesMy vote is for Rivers or Meadows. Wheeling Island is bleh, but I've played at both the other places ;-).
Let me know when and I'll block it off in the schedule.
tldr: Rivers has more pizzaz, where as meadows will probably be easier/cheaper for the meetup.
It's certainly going to be that weekend, the only question is if it will be Saturday or Sunday. I wanted to lock in the weekend because, with five months advance notice, it should be easy for anyone who wants to come to carve that out of the schedule.
Meadows is both easier and cheaper, I'm not a fan of Rivers for this meetup at all for the following additional reasons:
1.) If we are to do this on a Saturday, that place is going to be packed. Other than going upstairs to the area near the buffet, we're going to be lucky to even find a place to congregate there. Perhaps the West End Cafe, which has overpriced glorified Food Court food.
2.) We are NOT going to get our own Craps table, unless we want to play for bigger $$$. Also, they stuff those Craps Tables full, you're literally arm-to-arm with people. Unless I had a WoVer standing right next to me, I'd be playing with one hand on the dice and the other on my wallet, at all times.
3.) Some of the other Carnival games (and Roulette) are also $5, but usually it's just a (full) 3CP Table, Roulette, and you can sometimes get a UTH table for $5.
ON THE OTHER HAND:
In my mind, the big Craps game we all did together was the highlight of the first event, with the dinner being a close second. The nice thing about the North Shore (if it doesn't rain) is that there are plenty of very nice restaurants/bars/pubs within a walk of about a mile, perhaps a little less. To that point, we could all meet somewhere for lunch, or do the buffet, then split off into smaller groups and all meet again off-site for dinner. It's walkable, Lyft/Uber are quick and cheap and even the cab prices aren't that bad for those not inclined to walk. I wouldn't drive, not worth the PITA of finding another parking spot.
In that sense, if we can live with maybe not having our huge group Craps game, then Rivers might not be a terrible location...but that's largely because of what can easily be arranged off site.
Its unlikely I will be able to indulge unless I can find an airline to fly me as some sort of charity case.
And of course there is the date. I gave up on all my prescription pills some time ago to rely on Aloe Vera Juice and just recently found out that WalMart is being sued because their Aloe Vera Juice doesn't contain any at all.
If the meet takes place I hope to hear you all had a great time with the smoke and stingy casinos that don't offer drinks. Hard to get me to a casino that doesn't have free booze and cheap food.
I would also caution some concern about "reserving" a table for our "private event" as I'd guess they'd ask what the event is for/etc... and I wouldn't want to say Wizard of Vegas where they can get our guest list, etc, etc...
Quote: Romesp.s. for someone that commented... Meadows has 99.54 JoB and 99% other pay tables... They're the machines literally the closest to the poker room glass (unless they AGAIN moved them from the last time I was there).
I would also caution some concern about "reserving" a table for our "private event" as I'd guess they'd ask what the event is for/etc... and I wouldn't want to say Wizard of Vegas where they can get our guest list, etc, etc...
That's what I said last time, I'll probably deleting anything about maybe being banned from there in a week or so.
Quote: IbeatyouracesFor those who want to stay anonymous to the casinos, Rivers scans your ID when getting a players card. When I saw that, I left the line. Not sure about the others.
I've obtained several players club cards in the past year, and I can't think of one that didn't swipe it, but I'm not sure whether or not that actually scans it.
Quote: Mission146I've obtained several players club cards in the past year, and I can't think of one that didn't swipe it, but I'm not sure whether or not that actually scans it.
Yeah I thought just about every place scans Ids now.
Ya, I'm not sure where he's been going to play nut I just assume most all scan your ID nowadays.Quote: GWAEYeah I thought just about every place scans Ids now.
I'd like to see everybody ; give it 50-50 that I will attend
NOTE: As to scanning ids... it seems its universal now. The Seminoles here in Florida did not revoke their old players club cards they just rigged the machines to say 'go to a Validation Machine on the perimeter of the casino' and scan your card and your drivers license. This 'linked the card with the official ID' and therefore "validated" it. Most casinos now want real IDs but its probably not for comp-cheating purposes.
Quote: odiousgambitLooks like it is going to be Rivers.
I'd like to see everybody ; give it 50-50 that I will attend
Dont you dare say 50-50. We'll get a van and abduct you if we must. You are a cool dude and will be missed if you're not there.
You sure you can't cut out "some sweet young thang" or two? Lol.Quote: FleaStiffI'll be saving up my plasma donation money and see if I can get a decent bankroll.
NOTE: As to scanning ids... it seems its universal now. The Seminoles here in Florida did not revoke their old players club cards they just rigged the machines to say 'go to a Validation Machine on the perimeter of the casino' and scan your card and your drivers license. This 'linked the card with the official ID' and therefore "validated" it. Most casinos now want real IDs but its probably not for comp-cheating purposes.
Quote: onenickelmiracleDont you dare say 50-50. We'll get a van and abduct you if we must. You are a cool dude and will be missed if you're not there.
oh, well, I didn't know I was being held in such high esteem, so change that to 55-45 for now and I'll see what I can do. I'll see that there is a Craps Challenge if we can get our own table [if you get that accomplished I'd be 60-40]
Fleastiff regrets being unable to attend. Even if I had a free airline ticket and a comped room, it appears it would futile for me to plan on attending when its clear I will have no gambling budget.Quote: Mission146OneNickelMiracle and I are dually organizing the WoVCon East III event to be held the weekend of Saturday April 29th, 2017, to take place on that Saturday, or on Sunday April 30th, 2017.
At any rate, just a couple thoughts.
Since there seems to be no consensus on which day to do it, why not just do it both days? For example, have an informal get together for lunch on Saturday, then some group gambling, but that formal festivities start with dinner on Saturday. Getting a craps table together with lower minimums on Sunday morning should be very easy. Then end the event after lunch Sunday, as people individually trickle out.
Quote: BozIt's too early to 100% commit but I will follow this thread and try to attend at least 1 day. Depending on where you end up it's about a 4-5 hour drive for me.
Having had the good fortune to meet and spend an hour or two with you in the past, let me speak on behalf of all attendees and say we would be thrilled to have you there if it is in any way possible!
Just to let everyone know, I am going to be sending out some PM's either tomorrow or the next day so we can get the ball rolling on this thing. If everyone wants to do a two-day sort of thing, then I would be fine with that with each day taking place at a different venue.
Depending on my ex-wife's work schedule, I may or may not be able to do all day Saturday (Rivers) but would be there for just a little bit. If the Sunday is at Wheeling Island, then I would be there all day.
I'm going to be sending PM's to everyone who has attended a previous WoV East event or has replied in this thread, or replied in one of those threads. Anyone else is welcome, of course.
We need to start getting more specific plans in place now, though.
I'm creating a new thread and sending PM's out about this now.
So, we are definitely going to do two days, 4/29/17 and 4/30/17, but I want to redo voting on the casinos and maybe even throw out a few additional options.