Well as a guy who cut out after 2 days due to stomach issues, and a n00b first timer that didn't even get de-n00bed, I probably have little to say - but I've been to quite a number of rallies previously and I have to say that the BB location is fabulous (really!), and Silke's organization fantastic. My vote is to stay at BB, I know I will be back (for the entire thing next time, promise! ) Don't upset the apple cart with the grass-is-greener syndrome. ANY camping area is going to get muddy with the sort of rain we had this year. Don't kid yourself that there's some "magic grass" that won't turn into soup with 400 boots and 400 tires trodding on it. The kitchen area is magic. The coffee is magic. The riding is magic. Improve on what you've got - this one's special if you ask me.
Yes. And I have no issue with rallies that have many amenities. I'm just putting it out there that to some of us, although they are enjoyed and appreciated there should be no pressure on what Silke or any organizer does or doesn't provide. If it's moved someplace different and a particular aspect is not provided or it is not as good in some way, so be it. There are always risks when making changes and the the only way to find out is to take that risk. Hopefully what I'm say'n won't be understood.
I used to volunteer as an organizer and program coordinator for Trout Unlimited. My duties ranged from organizing coordinated stream improvement projects to trade show symposiums with thousands of attendees. I know how much work goes into making things happen and the success or failure was the difference in the program surviving or getting the axe. These events were to appease folks that were looking to get something out of it. They were not there to give. We as ADV'ers are a different breed. The perfect RDV is where Silke has to do nothing other than get carried around in a sedan chair lined in rose petals whilst feed grapes and foot massages.
for me as a relative n00b, i barely scratched the surface of all the great roads and trails to explore. facilities at BB were nice so food, shelter and rest/bathrooms were excellent. until i ride all the roads/trails Margie n Kyle "Fall Risk" et al. have to share, i would love to come back to BB...with my own Feeler Gauge!
When I saw the pic of you in there, I thought about it being like a big slumber party. The snoring and fart stench would be ridiculous.
best haiku ever as much as I love riding a place for the first time, some circuses are too big to take on the road.
It should be less muddy at Black Bear next year; I just washed 6 pounds of it out from under the Ruckus.