TotallyOz Posted October 23, 2008 Posted October 23, 2008 Looks like Rainwalker's generosity is not going to be around this year. It will be sorely missed as he was always overly generous in his forum get together. It does look like SGT and TT have decided to hold a dual forum party for the members of their forums. Should we just continue the All Forums get together and I'll pick up the tab? Just an idea that is sprinkling in my little head to be inclusive of all. Quote
KhorTose Posted October 24, 2008 Posted October 24, 2008 Unlike some people you don't require a "posse" of yes men (all dressed in pink) to be generous to others, but you picking up the tab is hardly fair or right. Why not contact SGT and TT and agree to a three way party, where the bill is picked up by all three boards. I bet they would go for it. Actually, why not just charge everyone a small amount (500 Bht) and donate that amount straight to charity? Well, thats my two cents worth. Quote
Guest globalwanderer Posted October 24, 2008 Posted October 24, 2008 I think you'll find it is george organising the get together, not the forums Quote
PattayaMale Posted October 24, 2008 Posted October 24, 2008 It would be great if you decide to continue Rainwalker's meet and greet. Although it is nice of George to organize something, his rules about tickets, etc. are a bit structured compared to Rainwalker's Quote
Guest globalwanderer Posted October 24, 2008 Posted October 24, 2008 Structured? I don't know I'd use that word, george is organising an event he wants to organise.... His requests for PM's so he can plan does not seem unreasonable. Quote
Guest rainwalker Posted October 24, 2008 Posted October 24, 2008 One of the things that I wanted to do with the All Forums Meet and Greet was to be as inclusive and as catholic as possible, even though exceptions were made, so that, if a real time face-to-face non-cyber community were to continue to form, as many folks as possible could be part of it. And while different folks are drawn to different forums for diverse reasons, at the end of the day there are more things that unite us than separate us. I'm hoping that this year's gathering draws big numbers from all of the forums. My only concern is that it be a success. I chose to try by making it a hosted party with freebies and this new format, where attendees pick up the tab, needs a chance to prove itself. Ultimately, the new approach will require forum member's participation, which is a good thing. When I was forming a Vancouver chapter of Act Up, i called Larry Kramer, the father of the movement, and after a long conversation told him that I was thinking of making a substantial donation to this soon-to-be- formed group. He counseled not to do that and said that it was up to the general membership to create and build new institutions and that things like this should rise and fall based on the will of the collective. I'm hoping that forum lurkers and posters decide that the "gaythering" is worthwhile and showup in sufficient numbers to allow this to thrive. Quote
Guest Posted October 24, 2008 Posted October 24, 2008 Thanks for all the comments and advice. My only concern is that ALL members of all forums are invited and participate. That is what I loved about Rainwalker's parties. He made sure that everyone was included in the activities. We are a community and to be pick and choose which groups are invited or not is not the way I would organize things. What I was thinking was hosting a party where ALL members are invited and on the same weekend that Rainwalker always did it as that is the gay pride week. Those were just my thoughts. I got some great advice from khortose as well as a few hate e-mail. LOL. But, I guess that is all part of the thing. Some will like it and others will not. Nothing is set in stone from me and I hope to speak to others about what they would like to see or do in this thread or in e-mail: gaythailand@gmail.com Quote
KhorTose Posted October 25, 2008 Posted October 25, 2008 When I was forming a Vancouver chapter of Act Up, i called Larry Kramer, the father of the movement, and after a long conversation told him that I was thinking of making a substantial donation to this soon-to-be- formed group. He counseled not to do that and said that it was up to the general membership to create and build new institutions and that things like this should rise and fall based on the will of the collective. I'm hoping that forum lurkers and posters decide that the "gaythering" is worthwhile and showup in sufficient numbers to allow this to thrive. YES --could not agree more. Quote
Gaybutton Posted October 25, 2008 Posted October 25, 2008 as well as a few hate e-mail. People who send that kind of Email are not even worth reading. They're worth only contempt. If hosting this "gaythering" (I love the way Rainwalker put it) is something you want to do, then do it, without regard to what the haters like. If they don't like it, they don't have to go, although I have a feeling most of them would be the first ones to show up and drink as much as they can when someone else is paying for it. "Waiter, don't bother with a glass. Just bring the bottle." Quote
PattayaMale Posted October 25, 2008 Posted October 25, 2008 I agree with Rainwalker and Gaybutton. If you want to do it Gaythaild do it. It would be a good tradition to continue on a great weekend. When I wrote that I thought Georges was structured, I understood that you had to be a member on certain boards. Email that you were coming, get a ticket to enter, which was good for one drink and snacks. At Rainwalker's you just showed up. There were some people there that read the boards and did not care to join or post for whatever reason. It seemed more open. I met many people at these gathering that have become good friends. I think George will have a very successful event. I like his company and have sat and talked with him on many occasions. I was trying to give Gaythailand my input and mentioned that I liked Rainwalker's format and date. I don't see it as a competion between 2 parties since they are on different dates. Some people that come to Thailand for a holiday may be able to attend one or the other. Some will attend both. Quote
Guest Posted October 26, 2008 Posted October 26, 2008 I was trying to give Gaythailand my input and mentioned that I liked Rainwalker's format and date. I don't see it as a competion between 2 parties since they are on different dates. Some people that come to Thailand for a holiday may be able to attend one or the other. Some will attend both. Thanks. I appreciate that. I did not see it as a competition as much as a compliment to each other. The more things the community does together the better off things are for all of us. Quote
Guest George Posted October 26, 2008 Posted October 26, 2008 It does look like SGT and TT have decided to hold a dual forum party for the members of their forums. Should we just continue the All Forums get together and I'll pick up the tab? Just an idea that is sprinkling in my little head to be inclusive of all. It was never my intention to exclude members from other forums, or prevent them attending the gathering should they so wish. For the record I posted the following on SGT: One decision I have already made, is to contact Gaybutton and certain other moderators and inform them, that if any of their members wish to attend the gathering, it will be necessary for them to email me, requesting an invitation. As the above rule applied to members of both Ting Tong and SGT, I did not believe it unreasonable to make the same request of members from other forums. However GT, should you wish to go ahead and hold a gathering for all forums, in the same way as RW has done in the past, please be my guest and go ahead and do so. I can inform you though, that having taken the trouble to correspond with several members, I can tell you that should you hold the gathering at the same time as Gay Pride Week, there will be several members that will be unable to attend, owing to the fact they do not arrive in Pattaya until December. I hope the above information helps and will send you my email address, should you wish to discuss this matter with me further. Many Thanks, George. Quote
Gaybutton Posted October 26, 2008 Posted October 26, 2008 One decision I have already made, is to contact Gaybutton and certain other moderators and inform them, that if any of their members wish to attend the gathering, it will be necessary for them to email me, requesting an invitation. Also, for the record, I do recall, weeks ago, spotting George's post on the Sawatdee Forum. He's definitely telling the truth about that. Quote
Guest Posted October 26, 2008 Posted October 26, 2008 It was never my intention to exclude members from other forums, or prevent them attending the gathering should they so wish. For the record I posted the following on SGT: One decision I have already made, is to contact Gaybutton and certain other moderators and inform them, that if any of their members wish to attend the gathering, it will be necessary for them to email me, requesting an invitation. Thanks George for the clarification. I did not read the post at SGT. The post I read was at Ting Tong and was titled: Ting Tong and Sawatdee Forums Christmas Gathering. I guess I just I assumed it was for those forums. But, thank you for the invite. I do love a party. Quote
Guest George Posted October 27, 2008 Posted October 27, 2008 Hi Pattaya Male, I have quoted some of the comments from your last post, not I may add to pick on you personally, as if I would consider doing such a thing, but purely as it will give me an opportunity to try and quell the misapprehensions you appear to have by your post, as well as any that others may have, in regard to how they believe the Gathering will operate, as opposed to how it is my intention for the Gathering to actually operate. When I wrote that I thought Georges was structured, I understood that you had to be a member on certain boards. Email that you were coming, get a ticket to enter, which was good for one drink and snacks. My use of the phrase that I would be issuing tickets, was only done so by me in the metaphorical sense, I apologise if I was misunderstood. The story of my life I am afraid. Let me make it clear that it was never my intention and still isn't, to stand at the front of the bar in my usherette outfit issuing tickets. Perhaps I might have considered this as an option, if it were not for the fact that it has always been impossible for me to wear a pair of stockings for longer than 5 minutes, without several ladders starting to appear in them. Furthermore, I know that some of those that will be present, wouldn't think twice about attempting to climb those ladders, given the slightest opportunity to do so. I would also like to point out that members from all of the gay forums are welcome, providing they comply with a very simple request. By the reactions of some, which I have come to hear of by way of some of the silly rumours going around that have been brought to my attention and I am not implying for a second Pattay Male, that your name has been mentioned, you would think I was requesting the private addresses of members, their bank details along with the pin numbers of their credit cards, as well as the name of their next of kin. Sheesh! Another point I beieve I must mention is: nowhere, have I ever said that only one drink and snacks would be offered in exchange for a ticket. All I have ever asked members to do, is pm me with their intention of attending the gathering, so that I would have an idea of the numbers that would be present, thereby ensuring that there was enough food for everybody and avoid, as was the case at last years gathering, I did not run out of food and make sure there was plenty for the entire evening. I have only ever asked members to give me their board names and make themselves known to me by those names, when they first arrive. Does anyone think that request of mine unreasonable? I respect the right of any member if it is their wish to be known only by their board name and can assure them, that I will not breach their confidentiality. On this matter I can assure them, they have my word. At Rainwalker's you just showed up. There were some people there that read the boards and did not care to join or post for whatever reason. It seemed more open. I met many people at these gathering that have become good friends. It was because of a post of Rainwalker's on SGT and the replies that it brought, that made me think this years gathering should be done differently, to that which it has been in the past. Why should freeloaders and people that have no association with any of the boards, be allowed to attend a gathering that is meant solely for members of the Gay Thailand Forums? If any member wishes to bring along a friend that is not a member of any of the forums, I do not see a problem with that, none at all in fact, providing he has the courtesy to inform me in a pm, that it is his intention to do so. Here is a link to that post of Rainwalker's, that was respnsible for my thinking about this years gathering in a different light than I had done previously. For the record, I believe the large majority of what Rainwalker says in his post, to be 100 per cent right on and agree with his sentiments. He said: George said "I haven't spoken to Rainwalker yet as to the possibility of him hosting his annual Christmas drinks and buffet get together for members of this board, but if he is unable to do so this year, (something which I believe will be the case from what I have heard) and this proposal of mine is treated in the positive way I would like to see it treated by the members here, I would be agreeable in offering to host this years annual get together myself, as well of course, in being very happy to pick up the tab for it." Should the fates and my doctors allow, I expect to be back in the LOS in November but as to me continuing to host the Annual All Gay Forums Cocktail Party and Arm Wrestling Competition, I regretfully pass. Four years is enough. It is time to allow others to take up the pleasure of arranging and funding the gathering which up to now has taken place during the Pattaya Gay Festival - to be held this year at the end of November. I have had great fun at these gatherings and have met a good number of people including two who are among my closest friends - Hi Hurbert, Hi A - but as another Canadian once said in a poem recited regularly on November 11th... "To you from failing hands we throw the torch; Be yours to hold it high..." Be prepared to shell out some 20,000 Baht for drinks and food for the crowd (last year's had a high of about 80 folks at one time and who knows how many traipsed through in the three hour extravaganza) at each gathering (even at a negotiated discount with the venue hosting the event) and be prepared to have posters question your motives, your ethics, and your sanity. And be prepared to have a bunch of freeloaders (cheap Charlies, balloon chasers, call them what you will) who don't even post on the boards show up, order top shelf brands, and gorge on the food without even attempting to join the community that is gathering which is the reason the assembly is happening in the first place. George, I happily hand the torch to you. The link for the above post of Rainwalkers is below for any that wish to check it out, as well as to be able to read the comments made by other posters in that particular thread: http://www.sawatdee-gay-thailand.com/forum...-t15984-15.html I think George will have a very successful event. I like his company and have sat and talked with him on many occasions. My thanks for your kind words above PM, I can assure you that those feeling are reciprocated by me. With regard to the event being successful, I can only do my part to ensure that it is, the rest will be up to those that attend. I was trying to give Gaythailand my input and mentioned that I liked Rainwalker's format and date. I don't see it as a competion between 2 parties since they are on different dates. Some people that come to Thailand for a holiday may be able to attend one or the other. Some will attend both. Lastly you will see by Rainwalker's post above how he personally feels about the Gathering he has graciously hosted in the past. I hope that you will have also noted by my initial post, that the reason I have chosen the date I have, is because of the sole reason that if it were to be held earlier, several members would be unable to attend as they would not be in Thailand at that time. So, with the above all said, if there are any members here that would like to attend and are prepared to pm me with that intention, I can assure them that they would be more than welcome. The Gathering will take place at Memories Bar in Sunee Plaza on Saturday the 13th December from 5-30 pm until late. Many thanks to everyone here, and apologies for the long winded post I felt was necessary in which to explain everything. If there is any other information required by anyone that I have not covered here, please pm me and I will do my best to answer any questions you may have. Cheers, George. Quote
PattayaMale Posted October 27, 2008 Posted October 27, 2008 George has been very kind to explain his meet and greet and the reasons for handling it the way he will. No problem what so ever. I still hope GayThailand will also complement this with one on the weekend of PGF as I have a very good friend coming to town that weekend that will not be here in December. I would love for him to meet those I talk about from the boards. It was my intent to tell him the party was for him..........which would save me a fortune in food and drink........Thank you GayThailand in advance. Quote
Guest George Posted October 27, 2008 Posted October 27, 2008 George has been very kind to explain his meet and greet and the reasons for handling it the way he will. No problem what so ever. I still hope GayThailand will also complement this with one on the weekend of PGF as I have a very good friend coming to town that weekend that will not be here in December. I would love for him to meet those I talk about from the boards. It was my intent to tell him the party was for him..........which would save me a fortune in food and drink........Thank you GayThailand in advance. What a great idea PM, I wish I had thought of that one. Do you think it is too late to tell GT the same story about a friend of mine, that will be visiting Thailand and attending my gathering. It is true I promise. Oh well, I guess it's over to you GT, I am sure that all donations will be gratefully accepted and Pattaya Male and me, will agree to split any generosity you may show to us, ha sip ha sip. Cheers, George. Quote
Guest jomtien Posted October 27, 2008 Posted October 27, 2008 Oh well, I guess it's over to you GT, I am sure that all donations will be gratefully accepted and Pattaya Male and me, will agree to split any generosity you may show to us, ha sip ha sip. Cheers, George. Back Off!! My birthday is in November and I'm sure Gaythailand is throwing this shindig for ME! So there! Quote
Guest lvdkeyes Posted October 27, 2008 Posted October 27, 2008 Am I the only one who has no idea what this shindig is all about? Quote
Guest George Posted October 27, 2008 Posted October 27, 2008 Back Off!! My birthday is in November and I'm sure Gaythailand is throwing this shindig for ME! So there! Well after seeing the following post of GT's in this thread here: http://www.gaythailand.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=3033 I guess the only hopes that you and I now have Pattaya Male of receiving any gracious donations from him, are No Hope and Bob Hope. Oh Well, you can't win them all, back to the drawing board. Cheers, George. Quote
Guest Posted October 27, 2008 Posted October 27, 2008 Back Off!! My birthday is in November and I'm sure Gaythailand is throwing this shindig for ME! So there! It was supposed to be a surprise. This was in place of the Rio trip. Am I the only one who has no idea what this shindig is all about? Well, we were going to spring it on you and beg you to do the cooking as you are the best there is in Pattaya. But, everything here seems to slip out before I can get anyone a bit tipsy. Well after seeing the following post of GT's in this thread here: http://www.gaythailand.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=3033 I guess the only hopes that you and I now have Pattaya Male of receiving any gracious donations from him, are No Hope and Bob Hope. Cheers, George. LOL. It is not hopeless. I once dated a cousin of the housekeeper of Bob Hope. I am sure that some one will be able to pull off something more hopeful. Quote
Guest Posted October 28, 2008 Posted October 28, 2008 It looks to me like there is no reason to have 2 of these right next to each other so I will gladly take my money and run. George has made clear that this event is for all of the sites and that is very generous of him. He does ask for a Private Message to let him know you are coming which is very reasonable. George, I would suggest you create an e-mail or give your own in case of the boards PM messages don't get to you. That way, it is easy to keep track of everyone and everything. I am not sure I'll be in town the week you are hosting the party as the BF and I are supposed to be in Brazil but I am able to make it, I will most definitely let you know. Thanks for your generous offer for all the forums and I personally wish you all the best. It looks like Rainwalker has left the party in good hands and I am sure it will be a blast for everyone. All the people I have spoken to have said what a stand up guy you are and I can't think of a nicer thing you are doing for the community. Quote
Guest jomtien Posted October 28, 2008 Posted October 28, 2008 It looks to me like there is no reason to have 2 of these right next to each other Does this mean my trip to Rio is back on? Hot Damn (as Daddy used to say) !! Quote
KhorTose Posted October 28, 2008 Posted October 28, 2008 GayThailand, you are planning to take a camera along with you, Yes? Having never been to Rio, pictures will be appreciated. Quote
Guest Posted October 28, 2008 Posted October 28, 2008 GayThailand, you are planning to take a camera along with you, Yes? Having never been to Rio, pictures will be appreciated. These are a couple of years old but these are 3 of my regulars there. Quote