Baltimore and Philly both sound wonderful.

DC we already did and while that doesn't automatically eliminate it, it seems a bummer to repeat when there are so many other options.

I kind of feel that way about New York, too-- for me, it's not so much a special "place," although that would go back to what javachik said about it F2F being about the people. New York with you guys would undoubtedly be a much different New York than what I'm accustomed to.

All cities nominated will be put on the initial poll.

I've had a blast at the big cities we've gone to, I've had an equal blast at the smaller ones. I've not been to RI since I was 8 and that would be awesome, as would Philly where I've never been or Balitmore where I've been for one night.

This post brought to you by where my 'Fistas go, so goeth the Miracleborns.

Do I get to be mean to him? Cause that could be fun!

No, but you won't want to. He's eccentric and smart and fun. We broke up because he came out, not because of anything bad. He's still one of my best friends.

There's really no downside to Buffistas meeting him. He knows about you guys. I just feel weird when my worlds collide.

We broke up because he came out, not because of anything bad.

oh, that's fine then.

I think Baltimore is lovely, there's lots of stuff to do and it's quite close to both DC and NYC. (according to my driving experience. YMMV) However the summer weather thing is an issue....june through september can be really sticky and disgusting. But as long as the major locations have A/C and there's a pool...

Unless we go with Portland, I don't think there's anywhere that summer isn't hot and sticky and gross. At least, everywhere that I've ever been on the east coast during the summer has been hot, except for places up in the mountains.

Unless we go with Portland, I don't think there's anywhere that summer isn't hot and sticky and gross. At least, everywhere that I've ever been on the east coast during the summer has been hot, except for places up in the mountains.

Yep, this.

I think we will have a lovely time no matter where we go.

we used to stay with relatives in rural Vermont every summer and it was HEAVENLY. I would totally suggest their beach house except that a) it's a bloody long drive from any airport b) there's no "hotel" within a 20 minute drive, and c) they don't have room for more than 18 really friendly people. Including sofas and floor space.

Oh, and they might frown upon me inviting strangers into their home. *shrug*

et correct spelling of state

A data point in Brooklyn: For a weekend in February, the Crossword Puzzle Tournament group rate at the Brooklyn Marriott is $185. It's a big group.