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Las Vegas convention

  • 1.  Las Vegas convention

    Posted 03-22-2010 15:28 
    From "Robin Stevens" <pianobee@bigpond.com>

I plan with two other of my OZ Piano tuner colleagues to come to the Las
Vegas convention in June. But doing some research on the Bally's Motel Hotel
accommodation, which is offered to  be the place to stay I have found some
disturbing opinions of the venue, such as below. There were many similar
opinions posted. 

<Bally's is off our list of places to stay in Las Vegas. The first room we
got was horrid. The furniture was so beat up it looked like a flop house for
drunks. We changed rooms and it wasn't much better. The real problem was the
smell. After 20 minutes in the first room my throat hurt so bad I welcomed
the smoke in the casino. It was a harsh Clorox type smell and it was
throughout the hallway and rooms. Luckily the window of this room could be
opened for some relief but it still gave us sore throats and headaches. To
top it off we had a dispute at checkout with the rate we were charged. That
took at least half an hour to get corrected. We will never return and I
would not recommend it to anyone.>

I know that the above might not apply to the whole hotel, but I would assume
that the convention organisers are aware of these problems and reserved a
group of rooms far different than the above critique. I hope someone can put
my mind to rest.
Thanks
Robin Stevens ARPT
South Australia


  • 2.  Las Vegas convention

    Posted 03-22-2010 21:00 
    From "Zoe Sandell" <yiddishtangofever@shaw.ca>

Thanks for pointing this out Robin

 

- my goodness- many many people have commented it is very dirty, smelly and
has poor customer service.

 

Any other options that look better?

 

Thanks

Zoe

 

 

  _____  

From: pianotech-bounces@ptg.org [mailto:pianotech-bounces@ptg.org] On Behalf
Of Robin Stevens
Sent: March 22, 2010 2:28 PM
To: pianotech@ptg.org
Subject: [pianotech] Las Vegas convention

 

I plan with two other of my OZ Piano tuner colleagues to come to the Las
Vegas convention in June. But doing some research on the Bally's Motel Hotel
accommodation, which is offered to  be the place to stay I have found some
disturbing opinions of the venue, such as below. There were many similar
opinions posted. 

<Bally's is off our list of places to stay in Las Vegas. The first room we
got was horrid. The furniture was so beat up it looked like a flop house for
drunks. We changed rooms and it wasn't much better. The real problem was the
smell. After 20 minutes in the first room my throat hurt so bad I welcomed
the smoke in the casino. It was a harsh Clorox type smell and it was
throughout the hallway and rooms. Luckily the window of this room could be
opened for some relief but it still gave us sore throats and headaches. To
top it off we had a dispute at checkout with the rate we were charged. That
took at least half an hour to get corrected. We will never return and I
would not recommend it to anyone.>

I know that the above might not apply to the whole hotel, but I would assume
that the convention organisers are aware of these problems and reserved a
group of rooms far different than the above critique. I hope someone can put
my mind to rest.

Thanks

Robin Stevens ARPT

South Australia


  • 3.  Las Vegas convention

    Posted 03-22-2010 21:57 
    From Thomas Cole <tcole@cruzio.com>

This is an unfortunate development, and could mean a disaster for the 
Guild if the word gets around and technicians hole up elsewhere (or 
don't bother to attend). Room rents in large part pay for the convention 
meeting rooms.

I stayed at Bally's about nine years ago and had no problems but 
conditions may have changed.

I'm posting a copy of this to the home office and case they might be 
able to head this off by posting current conditions or whatever is 
appropriate.

Regards,
Tom Cole

Zoe Sandell wrote:
>
> Thanks for pointing this out Robin
>
> - my goodness- many many people have commented it is very dirty, 
> smelly and has poor customer service.
>
> Any other options that look better?
>
> Thanks
>
> Zoe
>
> ------------------------------------------------------------------------
>
> *From:* pianotech-bounces@ptg.org [mailto:pianotech-bounces@ptg.org] 
> *On Behalf Of *Robin Stevens
> *Sent:* March 22, 2010 2:28 PM
> *To:* pianotech@ptg.org
> *Subject:* [pianotech] Las Vegas convention
>
> I plan with two other of my OZ Piano tuner colleagues to come to the 
> Las Vegas convention in June. But doing some research on the Bally?s 
> Motel Hotel accommodation, which is offered to be the place to stay I 
> have found some disturbing opinions of the venue, such as below. There 
> were many similar opinions posted.
>
> <Bally's is off our list of places to stay in Las Vegas. The first 
> room we got was horrid. The furniture was so beat up it looked like a 
> flop house for drunks. We changed rooms and it wasn't much better. The 
> real problem was the smell. After 20 minutes in the first room my 
> throat hurt so bad I welcomed the smoke in the casino. It was a harsh 
> Clorox type smell and it was throughout the hallway and rooms. Luckily 
> the window of this room could be opened for some relief but it still 
> gave us sore throats and headaches. To top it off we had a dispute at 
> checkout with the rate we were charged. That took at least half an 
> hour to get corrected. We will never return and I would not recommend 
> it to anyone.>
>
> I know that the above might not apply to the whole hotel, but I would 
> assume that the convention organisers are aware of these problems and 
> reserved a group of rooms far different than the above critique. I 
> hope someone can put my mind to rest.
>
> Thanks
>
> Robin Stevens ARPT
>
> South Australia
>


  • 4.  Las Vegas convention

    Registered Piano Technician
    Posted 03-23-2010 00:11 
    From tnrwim@aol.com

I'm posting a copy of this to the home office and case they might be able to head this off by posting current conditions or whatever is appropriate. 
 
Regards, 
Tom Cole 



Or perhaps ask if the hotel will lower their rates. 

Wim






    
                                                
    
					
                                                    

        
                                                
				
    
                                                
    
                                                    
                                                        
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  • 5.  Las Vegas convention

    Posted 03-23-2010 10:17 
    From "Zoe Sandell" <yiddishtangofever@shaw.ca>

I apologize for my post- I did not realize it was so offensive to the guild.

Please try to get beyond it

Zoe



    
                                                
    
					
                                                    

        
                                                
				
    
                                                
    
                                                    
                                                        
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  • 6.  Las Vegas convention

    Posted 03-23-2010 10:27 
    From Terry Farrell <mfarrel2@tampabay.rr.com>

Good golly mate! Settle them thar horses down! What are you  
apologizing for? I didn't read anything offensive in your post. I  
didn't read anything offensive in Robin's post. Nor did I read  
anything critical of anyone in Tom's post!

All I've read is folks discussing what some have read, concerns  
regarding that information, what others have experienced, and  
contacting PTG home office to pass on what has been read, discussed  
and possible concerns. All sounds pretty constructive to me so  
far.......

What's offensive and needs an apology regarding any of that? Did I  
miss something? You mean there is a good fight and I'm missing it?  
FIGHT, FIGHT, FIGHT!!!!!! (now it sounds like we are in gradeschool!)

Terry Farrell

On Mar 23, 2010, at 12:17 PM, Zoe Sandell wrote:

> I apologize for my post- I did not realize it was so offensive to  
> the guild.
>
> Please try to get beyond it
>
> Zoe


  • 7.  Las Vegas convention-apology addendum

    Posted 03-23-2010 10:27 
    From "Zoe Sandell" <yiddishtangofever@shaw.ca>

Hello again-

I admit I am new - and did not understand the reliance for revenue the guild
has on members staying in the hotel that the convention is taking place at

I have been involved in other organizations where the accommodation choice
had little or no relevance to the convention

Thanks for your understanding everyone, it was not my intention to undermine
the guild!

Zoe


    
                                                
    
					
                                                    

        
                                                
				
    
                                                
    
                                                    
                                                        
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  • 8.  Las Vegas convention-apology addendum

    Posted 03-23-2010 10:31 
    From Terry Farrell <mfarrel2@tampabay.rr.com>

Oops - I sent my previous response to this thread at 12:26:39, a full  
20 seconds before Zoe hit the send button on the post below!

I can't speak for the rest of the PTG Zoe, but I'm quite sure there is  
no problem here! I hope YOU don't think I was too aggressive with my  
previous post! I was just trying to douse the smoke source before a  
fire broke out!!!

Terry Farrell

On Mar 23, 2010, at 12:26 PM, Zoe Sandell wrote:

>
> Hello again-
>
> I admit I am new - and did not understand the reliance for revenue  
> the guild
> has on members staying in the hotel that the convention is taking  
> place at
>
> I have been involved in other organizations where the accommodation  
> choice
> had little or no relevance to the convention
>
> Thanks for your understanding everyone, it was not my intention to  
> undermine
> the guild!
>
> Zoe
>
> 
    
                                                
    
					
                                                    

        
                                                
				
    
                                                
    
                                                    
                                                        
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  • 9.  Las Vegas convention-apology addendum

    Posted 03-23-2010 10:34 
    From "Zoe Sandell" <yiddishtangofever@shaw.ca>

Terry

I greatly appreciate your posts
I certainly hope it is all thumbs up!

Zoe




    
                                                
    
					
                                                    

        
                                                
				
    
                                                
    
                                                    
                                                        
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  • 10.  Las Vegas convention-apology addendum

    Posted 03-23-2010 14:08 
    From Phil Ryan <pryan2@the-beach.net>

A while back when I was making airline reservations for the convention, 
I found out I could save money by booking the hotel (at Bally's) through 
Travelocity.  I did so and saved money.  Will PTG get credit for this 
hotel booking?  I like to support the organization and I wouldn't have 
done it this way had I known PTG would NOT be getting credit.  Perhaps 
it should be made clear on future bulletins.

Phil Ryan
Miami Beach

On 3/23/2010 12:31 PM, Terry Farrell wrote:
> Oops - I sent my previous response to this thread at 12:26:39, a full 
> 20 seconds before Zoe hit the send button on the post below!
>
> I can't speak for the rest of the PTG Zoe, but I'm quite sure there is 
> no problem here! I hope YOU don't think I was too aggressive with my 
> previous post! I was just trying to douse the smoke source before a 
> fire broke out!!!
>
> Terry Farrell
>
> On Mar 23, 2010, at 12:26 PM, Zoe Sandell wrote:
>
>>
>> Hello again-
>>
>> I admit I am new - and did not understand the reliance for revenue 
>> the guild
>> has on members staying in the hotel that the convention is taking 
>> place at
>>
>> I have been involved in other organizations where the accommodation 
>> choice
>> had little or no relevance to the convention
>>
>> Thanks for your understanding everyone, it was not my intention to 
>> undermine
>> the guild!
>>
>> Zoe
>>
>> 
    
                                                
    
					
                                                    

        
                                                
				
    
                                                
    
                                                    
                                                        
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  • 11.  Las Vegas convention-apology addendum

    Registered Piano Technician
    Posted 03-23-2010 14:33 
    From Jim Moy <jim@moypiano.com>

On Tue, Mar 23, 2010 at 2:08 PM, Phil Ryan <pryan2@the-beach.net> wrote:
> I like to support the organization and I wouldn't have done it
> this way had I known PTG would NOT be getting credit. ?Perhaps it should be
> made clear on future bulletins.

Agreed.  I did the same thing Phil did.

Somewhat absentmindedly, actually.  I was making my flight
arrangements on Travelocity thinking once I was done I'd go call the
hotel.  But the "Add Hotel" button was right there, and it was a
breeze to add it to my "cart" because they figure out the days
according to your flight arrival and departure dates, so with barely a
couple of clicks you've got your quote.

Like any good online shopping experience, it's not that it would put
me out to take the extra ten minutes to make the separate call, but
they make it so easy, and I'm going to be doing it anyway, so of
course I'm going to at least check it.

But then get this, rates change based all sorts of other factors, so
don't be put out if you don't get the same deal, but my quoted price
was more than 15% less than the *convention* rates.  No-brainer.  Same
room, single transaction, discount, done.

It didn't even occur to me it might impact PTG costs.  Maybe the
assumption was the $109/night was going to be the "best" deal, so of
course people would say "PTG convention rate, please," right?  (Which
brings up another question -- why *isn't* the PTG getting the best
rate possible for its members?)

If the room rate reimbursements or whatever are a significant part of
the equation, it ought to be made clear in the brochures.

Jim


  • 12.  Las Vegas convention-apology addendum

    Registered Piano Technician
    Posted 03-23-2010 15:41 
    From Israel Stein  <custos3@comcast.net>

>On Mar 03/23/10 1:32 PM Jim Moy wrote: 

>It didn't even occur to me it might impact PTG costs. Maybe the 
>assumption was the $109/night was going to be the "best" deal, so of 
>course people would say "PTG convention rate, please," right? (Which 
>brings up another question -- why *isn't* the PTG getting the best 
>rate possible for its members?) 

One word, Jim "volume". 

The PTG can give the hotel an estimate of, say, 400 rooms booked for 5 nights and perhaps 200 more for seven nights (oversimplification - it's more complicated than that, but you get the idea). Total - 3400 room-nights. The hotel is willing to give X% discount off its full rate for this sort of volume. 

Compare that to the tens or perhaps hundreds of thousands of room-nights that Travelocity will book over the span of a year, and you see why they can get (and offer to those who book over their website) a larger discount than the PTG - and still make a profit... 

Then again, the PTG is dealing with one hotel site, Travelocity is booking in every hotel in the chain... No way we could get the same discount that such volume booking can command... 

Israel Stein


  • 13.  Las Vegas convention-apology addendum

    Registered Piano Technician
    Posted 03-23-2010 16:06 
    From Jim Moy <jim@moypiano.com>

On Tue, Mar 23, 2010 at 3:41 PM, Israel Stein <custos3@comcast.net> wrote:
>>On Mar 03/23/10 1:32 PM Jim Moy wrote:
>>brings up another question -- why *isn't* the PTG getting the best
>>rate possible for its members?)
>
> One word, Jim? "volume".

Of course, you're right.

It would probably have been obvious if I thought about it for longer
than it took to type the question.

Jim


  • 14.  Las Vegas convention-apology addendum

    Posted 03-23-2010 20:45 
    From Terry Farrell <mfarrel2@tampabay.rr.com>

Again, if I am not mistaken, PTG not only gets some sort of deal on  
the rooms, but the cost of the instruction rooms is part of the  
package - or am I off base - I don't really know - what is the deal???

Terry Farrell

On Mar 23, 2010, at 6:05 PM, Jim Moy wrote:

> On Tue, Mar 23, 2010 at 3:41 PM, Israel Stein <custos3@comcast.net>  
> wrote:
>>> On Mar 03/23/10 1:32 PM Jim Moy wrote:
>>> brings up another question -- why *isn't* the PTG getting the best
>>> rate possible for its members?)
>>
>> One word, Jim  "volume".
>
> Of course, you're right.
>
> It would probably have been obvious if I thought about it for longer
> than it took to type the question.
>
> Jim


  • 15.  Las Vegas convention-apology addendum

    Posted 03-25-2010 15:11 
    From "Allan Gilreath, RPT" <allangilreath@bellsouth.net>

Good questions - The sleeping rooms, meeting rooms, food functions, 
exhibit space, decorating (carpet, pipe and drape, signs, etc.), A/V and 
many other things are in a rather lengthy and complicated contract with 
the hotel and several other vendors.

I hope this helps.

Allan
Allan Gilreath, RPT

President - Piano Technicians Guild
pres@ptg.org <mailto:pres@ptg.org>
www.ptg.org <http://www.ptg.org>
phone - 706 602-7667


On 3/23/2010 10:45 PM, Terry Farrell wrote:
> Again, if I am not mistaken, PTG not only gets some sort of deal on 
> the rooms, but the cost of the instruction rooms is part of the 
> package - or am I off base - I don't really know - what is the deal???
>
> Terry Farrell
>
> On Mar 23, 2010, at 6:05 PM, Jim Moy wrote:
>
>> On Tue, Mar 23, 2010 at 3:41 PM, Israel Stein <custos3@comcast.net> 
>> wrote:
>>>> On Mar 03/23/10 1:32 PM Jim Moy wrote:
>>>> brings up another question -- why *isn't* the PTG getting the best
>>>> rate possible for its members?)
>>>
>>> One word, Jim  "volume".
>>
>> Of course, you're right.
>>
>> It would probably have been obvious if I thought about it for longer
>> than it took to type the question.
>>
>> Jim
>
>

-- 
PK


  • 16.  Las Vegas convention-apology addendum

    Posted 03-23-2010 20:42 
    From Terry Farrell <mfarrel2@tampabay.rr.com>

Yes, but not only that, PTG is paying for the convention instruction  
rooms - daily rental, with water, whatever, etc. There is a lot more  
to it!!

Terry Farrell

On Mar 23, 2010, at 5:41 PM, Israel Stein wrote:

>
> >On Mar 03/23/10 1:32 PM Jim Moy wrote:
>
> >It didn't even occur to me it might impact PTG costs.  Maybe the
> >assumption was the $109/night was going to be the "best" deal, so of
> >course people would say "PTG convention rate, please," right?  (Which
> >brings up another question -- why *isn't* the PTG getting the best
> >rate possible for its members?)
>
> One word, Jim  "volume".
>
> The PTG can give the hotel an estimate of, say, 400 rooms booked for  
> 5 nights and  perhaps 200 more for seven nights (oversimplification  
> - it's more complicated than that, but you get the idea). Total -  
> 3400 room-nights. The hotel is willing to give X% discount off its  
> full rate for this sort of volume.
>
> Compare that to the tens or perhaps hundreds of thousands of room- 
> nights that Travelocity will book over the span of a year, and you  
> see why they can get (and offer to those who book over their  
> website) a larger discount than the PTG - and still make a profit...
>
> Then again, the PTG is dealing with one hotel site,  Travelocity is  
> booking in every hotel in the chain... No way we could get the same  
> discount that such volume booking can command...
>
> Israel Stein


  • 17.  Las Vegas convention-apology addendum

    Registered Piano Technician
    Posted 03-23-2010 20:15 
    From "Bruce Dornfeld" <bdornfeld@earthlink.net>

While it has been about twenty years since I have personally been involved
with helping to choose a convention site, I have a point or two to make.  It
is true, as others have said, that a convention like ours is possible in
part because of the rooms that are rented for it.  Many of you have
experience with other convention groups that do things very different from
PTG.  One of the most unusual features of the PTG Convention is the large
number of classrooms needed along with a large, secure area for exhibits
along with numerous large function rooms for Council, concerts, and
receptions.  Some of you have mentioned other hotels you are familiar with
in Las Vegas; you wonder why we don't meet there.  Without knowing the
particulars of those hotels, I would bet that very few would be able to
finds all of the spaces we need.  While I was involved with this process, we
had many requests for different cities.  Most of them we dismissed very
quickly because there was no single property that could accommodate those
needs.  We have looked at university settings.  Some universities have
wonderful convention facilities, but still don't work well for us.  One
reason is the advanced age of many of our active membership.  They cannot
trek across campus like they once did.  We firm up our deals with the
convention hotels several years in advance.  When the economy is poor, the
deals struck years before don't seem so good.  Sometimes, but not always, we
can renegotiate prices.  (An important part of any negotiation with a
convention site is the number of rooms that were paid for at recent PTG
Conventions).  Three or four years from now the hotels will probably look
better to us, and the economy is a big reason why.  When a destination is
very popular or the economy is going gangbusters, Expedia and the like
cannot get many good deals.  I look forward to seeing you in Las Vegas in
June and I will be at the Bally's on the PTG plan.  I know that not everyone
can afford to go (even though I also know you really can't afford not to),
or to stay in the convention hotel.  Those of us who can should to support
PTG and our profession.  See you there!   

 

Bruce Dornfeld, RPT

 <mailto:bdornfeld@earthlink.net> bdornfeld@earthlink.net

North Shore Chapter


  • 18.  Las Vegas convention-apology addendum

    Posted 03-23-2010 20:43 
    From "David Ilvedson" <ilvey@sbcglobal.net>

That is it EXACTLY...

David Ilvedson, RPT
Pacifica, CA  94044


    
                                                
    
					
                                                    

        
                                                
				
    
                                                
    
                                                    
                                                        
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  • 19.  Las Vegas convention-apology addendum

    Posted 03-25-2010 15:08 
    From "Allan Gilreath, RPT" <allangilreath@bellsouth.net>

No need for an apology Zoe. As I tell my customers, I much prefer to 
answer a question than for them to be wondering.

Ironically, if someone books a room in the hotel through another route 
than booking it as a "PTG Convention Room" it can be credited toward the 
number of room nights required of us in the contract. Just be sure to 
tell the hotel upon check-in and to let us know so we can be sure that 
proper credit is received for the membership.

Over the years, we've learned a few things about negotiating contracts.

Allan
Allan Gilreath, RPT

President - Piano Technicians Guild
pres@ptg.org <mailto:pres@ptg.org>
www.ptg.org <http://www.ptg.org>
phone - 706 602-7667


On 3/23/2010 12:26 PM, Zoe Sandell wrote:
> Hello again-
>
> I admit I am new - and did not understand the reliance for revenue the guild
> has on members staying in the hotel that the convention is taking place at
>
> I have been involved in other organizations where the accommodation choice
> had little or no relevance to the convention
>
> Thanks for your understanding everyone, it was not my intention to undermine
> the guild!
>
> Zoe
>
> 
    
                                                
    
					
                                                    

        
                                                
				
    
                                                
    
                                                    
                                                        
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  • 20.  Las Vegas convention-apology addendum

    Registered Piano Technician
    Posted 03-25-2010 17:34 
    From Jim Moy <jim@moypiano.com>

On Thu, Mar 25, 2010 at 3:08 PM, Allan Gilreath, RPT
<allangilreath@bellsouth.net> wrote:
> ... if someone books a room in the hotel through another route ... it can be
> credited toward the number of room nights required of us in the contract ... tell the
> hotel upon check-in and to let us know so ... proper credit is received...

Excellent.  I'll be sure to do that.  Who should we let know in the PTG?

Jim


  • 21.  Las Vegas convention

    Posted 03-22-2010 21:31 
    From "David Ilvedson" <ilvey@sbcglobal.net>

I find it hard to believe that PTG would be holding the convention in a dump.   I would forward some questions to the convention leaders before you start making other plans.   The way a convention works is if the conventioneers stay at the hotel.   They need the room nights to make it work.   DON'T JUMP TO CONCLUSIONS...

David Ilvedson, RPT
Pacifica, CA  94044


    
                                                
    
					
                                                    

        
                                                
				
    
                                                
    
                                                    
                                                        
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  • 22.  Las Vegas convention

    Posted 03-23-2010 00:56 
    From "Robin Stevens" <pianobee@bigpond.com>

David it would be nice if the convention organisers say that they have eye
balled the rooms for the convention and say there is no problems. When we
had our convention in South Australia in 2004, myself and the committee were
shown the rooms which they were holding for the convention so that we could
be satisfied with their condition.
All of the Australian conventions have been held in top class venues and
first class accommodation offered. It would a shame if myself and my two
colleagues ended up in rooms as described by a big majority of the reviewers
of bally's ;-((
Robin Stevens



 


    
                                                
    
					
                                                    

        
                                                
				
    
                                                
    
                                                    
                                                        
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  • 23.  Las Vegas convention

    Posted 03-23-2010 06:06 
    From "Allan Gilreath, RPT" <allangilreath@bellsouth.net>

Robin,

Having visited Bally's, the host hotel for the 2010 PTG Convention, 
several times, I've never encountered the difficulties you have related. 
Even the air filtering is exceptional in keeping any smoke smell from 
the casino from permeating into the meeting and sleeping rooms. Compared 
to many other hotels, we found the facilities to be clean, modern and in 
excellent repair. Additionally, the rooms are much larger than we 
typically enjoy at most hotels so I expect the attendees to be 
pleasantly surprised.

I'm sorry I wasn't able to respond more quickly but I was very involved 
with a Boy Scout leader meeting and several hours working on PTG items 
last night.

As has been mentioned, securing a sufficient number of room nights is 
what pays for our meeting and event rooms. The room rates are very 
reasonable, food costs are low and flights to and from Las Vegas are 
both plentiful and very affordable.

Much thought and research goes into selecting these sites and I know 
that the Institute Directors have lined up an absolutely spectacular 
line up of technical classes.

I hope to see everyone at Bally's in Las Vegas this summer!

Allan
Allan Gilreath, RPT

President - Piano Technicians Guild
pres@ptg.org <mailto:pres@ptg.org>
www.ptg.org <http://www.ptg.org>
phone - 706 602-7667


On 3/23/2010 2:56 AM, Robin Stevens wrote:
> David it would be nice if the convention organisers say that they have eye
> balled the rooms for the convention and say there is no problems. When we
> had our convention in South Australia in 2004, myself and the committee were
> shown the rooms which they were holding for the convention so that we could
> be satisfied with their condition.
> All of the Australian conventions have been held in top class venues and
> first class accommodation offered. It would a shame if myself and my two
> colleagues ended up in rooms as described by a big majority of the reviewers
> of bally's ;-((
> Robin Stevens
>
>
>
>
>
> 
    
                                                
    
					
                                                    

        
                                                
				
    
                                                
    
                                                    
                                                        
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  • 24.  Las Vegas convention

    Registered Piano Technician
    Posted 03-23-2010 06:19 
    From Conrad Hoffsommer <choffsommer@hotmail.com>

My 2 ?...

I, for one, have already booked at Bally's for Convention and Council and have no inclination to change. 
 
See everybody there!

Conrad Hoffsommer




Date: Tue, 23 Mar 2010 08:05:38 -0400
From: allangilreath@bellsouth.net
To: pianotech@ptg.org
Subject: Re: [pianotech] Las Vegas convention






  




Robin,



Having visited Bally's, the host hotel for the 2010 PTG Convention,
several times, I've never encountered the difficulties you have
related. Even the air filtering is exceptional in keeping any smoke
smell from the casino from permeating into the meeting and sleeping
rooms. Compared to many other hotels, we found the facilities to be
clean, modern and in excellent repair. Additionally, the rooms are much
larger than we typically enjoy at most hotels so I expect the attendees
to be pleasantly surprised.



I'm sorry I wasn't able to respond more quickly but I was very involved
with a Boy Scout leader meeting and several hours working on PTG items
last night.



As has been mentioned, securing a sufficient number of room nights is
what pays for our meeting and event rooms. The room rates are very
reasonable, food costs are low and flights to and from Las Vegas are
both plentiful and very affordable.



Much thought and research goes into selecting these sites and I know
that the Institute Directors have lined up an absolutely spectacular
line up of technical classes.



I hope to see everyone at Bally's in Las Vegas this summer!





Allan
Allan Gilreath, RPT


  • 25.  Las Vegas convention

    Posted 03-23-2010 06:36 
    From John Ross <jrpiano@win.eastlink.ca>

Just trying to decide now, Conrad.
It will be nice to see you again.
I will be staying at the Bally as well, if I decide to go.
I am 90% sure it is a go.
John Ross
Windsor, Nova Scotia

On 23-Mar-10, at 9:18 AM, Conrad Hoffsommer wrote:

> My 2 ?...
>
> I, for one, have already booked at Bally's for Convention and  
> Council and have no inclination to change.
>
> See everybody there!
>
> Conrad Hoffsommer
>
>
>
>
> Date: Tue, 23 Mar 2010 08:05:38 -0400
> From: allangilreath@bellsouth.net
> To: pianotech@ptg.org
> Subject: Re: [pianotech] Las Vegas convention
>
> Robin,
>
> Having visited Bally's, the host hotel for the 2010 PTG Convention,  
> several times, I've never encountered the difficulties you have  
> related. Even the air filtering is exceptional in keeping any smoke  
> smell from the casino from permeating into the meeting and sleeping  
> rooms. Compared to many other hotels, we found the facilities to be  
> clean, modern and in excellent repair. Additionally, the rooms are  
> much larger than we typically enjoy at most hotels so I expect the  
> attendees to be pleasantly surprised.
>
> I'm sorry I wasn't able to respond more quickly but I was very  
> involved with a Boy Scout leader meeting and several hours working  
> on PTG items last night.
>
> As has been mentioned, securing a sufficient number of room nights  
> is what pays for our meeting and event rooms. The room rates are  
> very reasonable, food costs are low and flights to and from Las  
> Vegas are both plentiful and very affordable.
>
> Much thought and research goes into selecting these sites and I know  
> that the Institute Directors have lined up an absolutely spectacular  
> line up of technical classes.
>
> I hope to see everyone at Bally's in Las Vegas this summer!
>
> Allan
> Allan Gilreath, RPT


  • 26.  Las Vegas convention

    Posted 03-23-2010 06:42 
    From Terry Farrell <mfarrel2@tampabay.rr.com>

That'd be a bit of a hike for you John - almost as far as Robin would  
be traveling. Just curious, fly or drive - if I remember correctly you  
drive to most conventions?

I'm going to try and make this one also.

Terry Farrell

On Mar 23, 2010, at 8:35 AM, John Ross wrote:

> Just trying to decide now, Conrad.
> It will be nice to see you again.
> I will be staying at the Bally as well, if I decide to go.
> I am 90% sure it is a go.
> John Ross
> Windsor, Nova Scotia
>
> On 23-Mar-10, at 9:18 AM, Conrad Hoffsommer wrote:
>
>> My 2 ?...
>>
>> I, for one, have already booked at Bally's for Convention and  
>> Council and have no inclination to change.
>>
>> See everybody there!
>>
>> Conrad Hoffsommer
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> Date: Tue, 23 Mar 2010 08:05:38 -0400
>> From: allangilreath@bellsouth.net
>> To: pianotech@ptg.org
>> Subject: Re: [pianotech] Las Vegas convention
>>
>> Robin,
>>
>> Having visited Bally's, the host hotel for the 2010 PTG Convention,  
>> several times, I've never encountered the difficulties you have  
>> related. Even the air filtering is exceptional in keeping any smoke  
>> smell from the casino from permeating into the meeting and sleeping  
>> rooms. Compared to many other hotels, we found the facilities to be  
>> clean, modern and in excellent repair. Additionally, the rooms are  
>> much larger than we typically enjoy at most hotels so I expect the  
>> attendees to be pleasantly surprised.
>>
>> I'm sorry I wasn't able to respond more quickly but I was very  
>> involved with a Boy Scout leader meeting and several hours working  
>> on PTG items last night.
>>
>> As has been mentioned, securing a sufficient number of room nights  
>> is what pays for our meeting and event rooms. The room rates are  
>> very reasonable, food costs are low and flights to and from Las  
>> Vegas are both plentiful and very affordable.
>>
>> Much thought and research goes into selecting these sites and I  
>> know that the Institute Directors have lined up an absolutely  
>> spectacular line up of technical classes.
>>
>> I hope to see everyone at Bally's in Las Vegas this summer!
>>
>> Allan
>> Allan Gilreath, RPT
>


  • 27.  Las Vegas convention

    Posted 03-23-2010 08:45 
    From John Ross <jrpiano@win.eastlink.ca>

Yes I do drive.
It will be about 3445 miles, just about 8 hours less than Anaheim was.
Good job, I enjoy driving.
I just hate the hassle of flying especially these days.
Just got to make my Wife understand, how I need to go.
She hates driving, and won't come.
John Ross
Windsor, Nova Scotia
On 23-Mar-10, at 9:41 AM, Terry Farrell wrote:

> That'd be a bit of a hike for you John - almost as far as Robin  
> would be traveling. Just curious, fly or drive - if I remember  
> correctly you drive to most conventions?
>
> I'm going to try and make this one also.
>
> Terry Farrell
>
> On Mar 23, 2010, at 8:35 AM, John Ross wrote:
>> t Just trying to decide now, Conrad.
>> It will be nice to see you again.
>> I will be staying at the Bally as well, if I decide to go.
>> I am 90% sure it is a go.
>> John Ross
>> Windsor, Nova Scotia
>>
>> On 23-Mar-10, at 9:18 AM, Conrad Hoffsommer wrote:
>>
>>> My 2 ?...
>>>
>>> I, for one, have already booked at Bally's for Convention and  
>>> Council and have no inclination to change.
>>>
>>> See everybody there!
>>>
>>> Conrad Hoffsommer
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Date: Tue, 23 Mar 2010 08:05:38 -0400
>>> From: allangilreath@bellsouth.net
>>> To: pianotech@ptg.org
>>> Subject: Re: [pianotech] Las Vegas convention
>>>
>>> Robin,
>>>
>>> Having visited Bally's, the host hotel for the 2010 PTG  
>>> Convention, several times, I've never encountered the difficulties  
>>> you have related. Even the air filtering is exceptional in keeping  
>>> any smoke smell from the casino from permeating into the meeting  
>>> and sleeping rooms. Compared to many other hotels, we found the  
>>> facilities to be clean, modern and in excellent repair.  
>>> Additionally, the rooms are much larger than we typically enjoy at  
>>> most hotels so I expect the attendees to be pleasantly surprised.
>>>
>>> I'm sorry I wasn't able to respond more quickly but I was very  
>>> involved with a Boy Scout leader meeting and several hours working  
>>> on PTG items last night.
>>>
>>> As has been mentioned, securing a sufficient number of room nights  
>>> is what pays for our meeting and event rooms. The room rates are  
>>> very reasonable, food costs are low and flights to and from Las  
>>> Vegas are both plentiful and very affordable.
>>>
>>> Much thought and research goes into selecting these sites and I  
>>> know that the Institute Directors have lined up an absolutely  
>>> spectacular line up of technical classes.
>>>
>>> I hope to see everyone at Bally's in Las Vegas this summer!
>>>
>>> Allan
>>> Allan Gilreath, RPT
>>
>


  • 28.  Las Vegas convention

    Posted 03-23-2010 09:09 
    From Terry Farrell <mfarrel2@tampabay.rr.com>

Too bad you're coming from the north - I'll be riding in from the  
south.....  Oh well, it'll be good to see you and everyone else!

Terry Farrell

On Mar 23, 2010, at 10:45 AM, John Ross wrote:

> Yes I do drive.
> It will be about 3445 miles, just about 8 hours less than Anaheim was.
> Good job, I enjoy driving.
> I just hate the hassle of flying especially these days.
> Just got to make my Wife understand, how I need to go.
> She hates driving, and won't come.
> John Ross
> Windsor, Nova Scotia


  • 29.  Las Vegas convention

    Posted 03-23-2010 17:46 
    From "Robin Stevens" <pianobee@bigpond.com>

Thanks Allan...my mind is at rest ;-))....All that us ausies have to do now
is to know to order a beer at the bar by the proper
name...jug...pot...schooner...middy...glass...bottle? ;-))

Looking forward to LV

Robin 

 

From: pianotech-bounces@ptg.org [mailto:pianotech-bounces@ptg.org] On Behalf
Of Allan Gilreath, RPT
Sent: Tuesday, 23 March 2010 10:36 PM
To: pianotech@ptg.org
Subject: Re: [pianotech] Las Vegas convention

 

Robin,

Having visited Bally's, the host hotel for the 2010 PTG Convention, several
times, I've never encountered the difficulties you have related. Even the
air filtering is exceptional in keeping any smoke smell from the casino from
permeating into the meeting and sleeping rooms. Compared to many other
hotels, we found the facilities to be clean, modern and in excellent repair.
Additionally, the rooms are much larger than we typically enjoy at most
hotels so I expect the attendees to be pleasantly surprised.

I'm sorry I wasn't able to respond more quickly but I was very involved with
a Boy Scout leader meeting and several hours working on PTG items last
night.

As has been mentioned, securing a sufficient number of room nights is what
pays for our meeting and event rooms. The room rates are very reasonable,
food costs are low and flights to and from Las Vegas are both plentiful and
very affordable.

Much thought and research goes into selecting these sites and I know that
the Institute Directors have lined up an absolutely spectacular line up of
technical classes.

I hope to see everyone at Bally's in Las Vegas this summer!




Allan
Allan Gilreath, RPT

President - Piano Technicians Guild
pres@ptg.org
 <http://www.ptg.org> www.ptg.org
phone - 706 602-7667



On 3/23/2010 2:56 AM, Robin Stevens wrote: 

David it would be nice if the convention organisers say that they have eye
balled the rooms for the convention and say there is no problems. When we
had our convention in South Australia in 2004, myself and the committee were
shown the rooms which they were holding for the convention so that we could
be satisfied with their condition.
All of the Australian conventions have been held in top class venues and
first class accommodation offered. It would a shame if myself and my two
colleagues ended up in rooms as described by a big majority of the reviewers
of bally's ;-((
Robin Stevens
 
 
 
 
 

    
                                                
    
					
                                                    

        
                                                
				
    
                                                
    
                                                    
                                                        
                                                        Original Message


  • 30.  Las Vegas convention

    Posted 03-23-2010 20:28 
    From paul bruesch <paul@bruesch.net>

I think that'd be "draught"   :-)

On Tue, Mar 23, 2010 at 6:46 PM, Robin Stevens <pianobee@bigpond.com> wrote:

>  Thanks Allan...my mind is at rest ;-))....All that us ausies have to do
> now is to know to order a beer at the bar by the proper
> name...jug...pot...schooner...middy...glass...bottle? ;-))
>
> Looking forward to LV
>
> Robin
>
>
>
> *From:* pianotech-bounces@ptg.org [mailto:pianotech-bounces@ptg.org] *On
> Behalf Of *Allan Gilreath, RPT
> *Sent:* Tuesday, 23 March 2010 10:36 PM
> *To:* pianotech@ptg.org
> *Subject:* Re: [pianotech] Las Vegas convention
>
>
>
> Robin,
>
> Having visited Bally's, the host hotel for the 2010 PTG Convention, several
> times, I've never encountered the difficulties you have related. Even the
> air filtering is exceptional in keeping any smoke smell from the casino from
> permeating into the meeting and sleeping rooms. Compared to many other
> hotels, we found the facilities to be clean, modern and in excellent repair.
> Additionally, the rooms are much larger than we typically enjoy at most
> hotels so I expect the attendees to be pleasantly surprised.
>
> I'm sorry I wasn't able to respond more quickly but I was very involved
> with a Boy Scout leader meeting and several hours working on PTG items last
> night.
>
> As has been mentioned, securing a sufficient number of room nights is what
> pays for our meeting and event rooms. The room rates are very reasonable,
> food costs are low and flights to and from Las Vegas are both plentiful and
> very affordable.
>
> Much thought and research goes into selecting these sites and I know that
> the Institute Directors have lined up an absolutely spectacular line up of
> technical classes.
>
> I hope to see everyone at Bally's in Las Vegas this summer!
>
>
>   Allan
> Allan Gilreath, RPT
>
> President - Piano Technicians Guild
> pres@ptg.org
> www.ptg.org
> phone - 706 602-7667
>
>
>
> On 3/23/2010 2:56 AM, Robin Stevens wrote:
>
> David it would be nice if the convention organisers say that they have eye
>
> balled the rooms for the convention and say there is no problems. When we
>
> had our convention in South Australia in 2004, myself and the committee were
>
> shown the rooms which they were holding for the convention so that we could
>
> be satisfied with their condition.
>
> All of the Australian conventions have been held in top class venues and
>
> first class accommodation offered. It would a shame if myself and my two
>
> colleagues ended up in rooms as described by a big majority of the reviewers
>
> of bally's ;-((
>
> Robin Stevens
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> 
    
                                                
    
					
                                                    

        
                                                
				
    
                                                
    
                                                    
                                                        
                                                        Original Message


  • 31.  Las Vegas convention

    Registered Piano Technician
    Posted 03-23-2010 20:31 
    From Conrad Hoffsommer <choffsommer@hotmail.com>

Just ask what brands they have - in bottle or on draft.  Bottles are generally 12oz., draft can be almost any size - I've seen as big as a half-yard.

Don't expect to find VB.

Conrad Hoffsommer



















Thanks Allan...my mind is at rest ;-))....All that us ausies
have to do now is to know to order a beer at the bar by the proper name...jug...pot...schooner...middy...glass...bottle?
;-))

Looking forward to LV

Robin


  • 32.  Las Vegas convention

    Posted 03-23-2010 20:45 
    From "Gerald Groot" <tunerboy3@comcast.net>

Reminds me of the very first convention I attended back in 1972 in St.
Louis.  Wim's old stomping ground.  I was 16.  The beer drinking age was 18.
My dad was there, all 3 of my mentor's, a whole bunch of us including my
cousin who just happened to be 18 the lucky stiff.  Anyway, wanting to look
smart, my cousin casually looked over the menu of available draft beer.  On
the menu, the beer was spelled draught so, that's how he pronouced it.  Like
it looks and he did not specify which draught beer brand he wanted.   "Oh,
just give me of them draught beers"  he said.  (Drought)  Even I wasn't THAT
stupid!  I think I was the first one laughing.  The whole table cracked up.
DROUGHT BEER!  Yeah?  You that thirsty boy?  They started in.  You having a
drought?  When's the last time you had something to drink kid?  He turned
beat red and I about peed my pants laughing so hard.  

 

Jer

 

From: pianotech-bounces@ptg.org [mailto:pianotech-bounces@ptg.org] On Behalf
Of Conrad Hoffsommer
Sent: Tuesday, March 23, 2010 10:31 PM
To: pianotech@ptg.org
Subject: Re: [pianotech] Las Vegas convention

 


Just ask what brands they have - in bottle or on draft.  Bottles are
generally 12oz., draft can be almost any size - I've seen as big as a
half-yard.

Don't expect to find VB.

Conrad Hoffsommer





Thanks Allan...my mind is at rest ;-))....All that us ausies have to do now
is to know to order a beer at the bar by the proper
name...jug...pot...schooner...middy...glass...bottle? ;-))

Looking forward to LV

Robin


  • 33.  Las Vegas convention

    Posted 03-23-2010 21:11 
    From Terry Farrell <mfarrel2@tampabay.rr.com>

Oh, good grief, do I have to expand my language even further? I know  
what a ute is, and a dunny, and a crash shop, but what is a beer  
called in the land down under?????? ( that is important!)

Terry Farrell

On Mar 23, 2010, at 7:46 PM, Robin Stevens wrote:

> Thanks Allan...my mind is at rest ;-))....All that us ausies have to  
> do now is to know to order a beer at the bar by the proper  
> name...jug...pot...schooner...middy...glass...bottle? ;-))
> Looking forward to LV
> Robin


  • 34.  Las Vegas convention

    Posted 03-23-2010 21:50 
    From Ron Nossaman <rnossaman@cox.net>

Terry Farrell wrote:
> Oh, good grief, do I have to expand my language even further? I know 
> what a ute is, and a dunny, and a crash shop, but what is a beer called 
> in the land down under?????? ( that is important!)

Southern hemisphere, it's "reeb" spelled 
backward..............................................................
Ron N


  • 35.  Las Vegas convention

    Posted 03-23-2010 21:55 
    From Rob McCall <rob@mccallpiano.com>

Actually, since they're upside-down, down under, shouldn't it be ???q?  :-)

Rob McCall

McCall Piano Service, LLC
www.mccallpiano.com
Murrieta, CA
951-698-1875



On Mar 23, 2010, at 20:50 , Ron Nossaman wrote:

> Terry Farrell wrote:
>> Oh, good grief, do I have to expand my language even further? I know what a ute is, and a dunny, and a crash shop, but what is a beer called in the land down under?????? ( that is important!)
> 
> Southern hemisphere, it's "reeb" spelled backward..............................................................
> Ron N
>


  • 36.  Las Vegas convention

    Posted 03-23-2010 22:18 
    From Ron Nossaman <rnossaman@cox.net>

Rob McCall wrote:
> Actually, since they're upside-down, down under, shouldn't it be ???q?  :-)

Reeb upside down. Yea, that works. Bottoms up!
Ron N


  • 37.  OT Re: Las Vegas convention

    Posted 03-24-2010 05:27 
    From Scott Jackson <scottwaynejackson@gmail.com>

*Amber fluid :* beer
*Bogan :* person who takes little pride in his appearance, spends his 
days slacking and drinking beer
*Bottle-o :* liquor shop (originally a man with hessian bags going 
around picking up beer bottles in the 50's and 60's)
*Butcher :* small glass of beer in South Australia - From the theory 
that a butcher could take a quick break from his job, have a drink and 
be back at work
*Coldie :* a beer
*Grog :* liquor, beer ("bring your own grog, you bludger")
*Handle :* beer glass with a handle
*Longneck :* 750ml bottle of beer in South Australia
*Middy :* 285 ml beer glass in New South Wales
*Pint :* large glass of beer (esp. in South Australia)
*Piss :* beer. Hence "hit the piss", "sink some piss"
*Pot :* 285 ml beer glass in Queensland and Victoria
*Roadie :* a beer you buy to take away with you
*Schooner :* large beer glass in Queensland; medium beer glass in South 
Australia
*Skull/Skol (a beer) :* to drink a beer in a single draught without 
taking a breath
*Slab :* a carton of 24 bottles or cans of beer
*Stubby :* a 375ml. beer bottle
*Tallie :* 750ml bottle of beer
*Throw-down :* small bottle of beer which you can throw down quickly.
*Tinny :* can of beer
*XXXX :* pronounced Four X, brand of beer made in Queensland

koalanet.com.au/australian-slang.html 
<http://www.koalanet.com.au/australian-slang.html>

Terry Farrell wrote:
> Oh, good grief, do I have to expand my language even further? I know 
> what a ute is, and a dunny, and a crash shop, but what is a beer 
> called in the land down under?????? ( that is important!)
>
> Terry Farrell


  • 38.  Las Vegas convention

    Posted 03-23-2010 06:34 
    From Terry Farrell <mfarrel2@tampabay.rr.com>

The hotel y'all (oops, sorry - SE USA lingo...) had for the '07  
convention in the Gold Coast was very nice. I was especially impressed  
with the dunny, having flown in from the USA, I didn't have a ute to  
get around in - but that was okay, everything I needed was right  
there. Good thing, 'cuz everyone was driving on the wrong side of the  
road anyway - if I had tried that I'd end up with my ute in the crash  
shop!

Maybe PTG should have the next convention in Australia - I mean, we  
advertise as being international, don't we?  ;-)

Terry Farrell

On Mar 23, 2010, at 2:56 AM, Robin Stevens wrote:

> David it would be nice if the convention organisers say that they  
> have eye
> balled the rooms for the convention and say there is no problems.  
> When we
> had our convention in South Australia in 2004, myself and the  
> committee were
> shown the rooms which they were holding for the convention so that  
> we could
> be satisfied with their condition.
> All of the Australian conventions have been held in top class venues  
> and
> first class accommodation offered. It would a shame if myself and my  
> two
> colleagues ended up in rooms as described by a big majority of the  
> reviewers
> of bally's ;-((
> Robin Stevens


  • 39.  Las Vegas convention

    Posted 03-23-2010 07:00 
    From Brian Trout <brian_trout@hotmail.com>

I dunno, Terry.  Get me "down under" and I may not want to come back.  LOL!!

 

Is there a reasonable way to get there other than on a plane?  I hate flying...

 

Brian


 
> From: mfarrel2@tampabay.rr.com
> To: pianotech@ptg.org
> Date: Tue, 23 Mar 2010 08:33:30 -0400
> Subject: Re: [pianotech] Las Vegas convention
> 
> The hotel y'all (oops, sorry - SE USA lingo...) had for the '07 
> convention in the Gold Coast was very nice. I was especially impressed 
> with the dunny, having flown in from the USA, I didn't have a ute to 
> get around in - but that was okay, everything I needed was right 
> there. Good thing, 'cuz everyone was driving on the wrong side of the 
> road anyway - if I had tried that I'd end up with my ute in the crash 
> shop!
> 
> Maybe PTG should have the next convention in Australia - I mean, we 
> advertise as being international, don't we? ;-)
> 
> Terry Farrell
> 
 		 	   		  
_________________________________________________________________
Hotmail has tools for the New Busy. Search, chat and e-mail from your inbox.
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  • 40.  Las Vegas convention

    Posted 03-23-2010 08:43 
    From Terry Farrell <mfarrel2@tampabay.rr.com>

On Mar 23, 2010, at 8:59 AM, Brian Trout wrote:

> I dunno, Terry.  Get me "down under" and I may not want to come  
> back.  LOL!!
>
> Is there a reasonable way to get there other than on a plane?  I  
> hate flying...
>
> Brian


Sure. Hop on a ship! Might take a bit longer than a plane, but unless  
you have some sort of Star-Treck-type transporter, I think those are  
your only two practical options (that's why I rule out swimming). I  
don't know if there are passenger ships that go there, but my  
understanding is that at least some, and maybe many, commercial cargo  
ships often have quarters that they rent to private individuals for  
overseas passage - way less expensive than doing it on the Queen Mary.

Or, better yet, get a boat! Hey, and I just happen to have the perfect  
boat for ya! A world-class, ocean-going sailboat. A 1963 mahogany-on- 
oak Norwegian-designed and Swedish-built, Folkboat. Many of this  
design have been sailed around the world. And being the nice guy you  
are, I'd give you a really special deal!

Oh, it does have a little dent in it.......  :-(

Terry Farrell





PS: Yes, I was rebuilding it - this just happened a couple months  
ago......  :-(


  • 41.  Las Vegas convention

    Registered Piano Technician
    Posted 03-23-2010 09:34 
    From Conrad Hoffsommer <choffsommer@hotmail.com>

DARN!

You almost had it sold until I saw the pix... ;-}

Conrad Hoffsommer




From: mfarrel2@tampabay.rr.com
To: pianotech@ptg.org
Date: Tue, 23 Mar 2010 10:42:57 -0400
Subject: Re: [pianotech] Las Vegas convention

On Mar 23, 2010, at 8:59 AM, Brian Trout wrote:I dunno, Terry.  Get me "down under" and I may not want to come back.  LOL!!
 
Is there a reasonable way to get there other than on a plane?  I hate flying...
 
Brian
Sure. Hop on a ship! Might take a bit longer than a plane, but unless you have some sort of Star-Treck-type transporter, I think those are your only two practical options (that's why I rule out swimming). I don't know if there are passenger ships that go there, but my understanding is that at least some, and maybe many, commercial cargo ships often have quarters that they rent to private individuals for overseas passage - way less expensive than doing it on the Queen Mary.
Or, better yet, get a boat! Hey, and I just happen to have the perfect boat for ya! A world-class, ocean-going sailboat. A 1963 mahogany-on-oak Norwegian-designed and Swedish-built, Folkboat. Many of this design have been sailed around the world. And being the nice guy you are, I'd give you a really special deal!
Oh, it does have a little dent in it.......  :-(
Terry Farrell


PS: Yes, I was rebuilding it - this just happened a couple months ago......  :-(


  • 42.  Las Vegas convention

    Posted 03-23-2010 09:51 
    From Terry Farrell <mfarrel2@tampabay.rr.com>

Oh, "it's just a scratch"! Come on now, a trip or two to Home Depot, a  
few hours, and back to new!

Terry Farrell

PS: I also have some wonderful real estate for sale just south of lake  
Okeechobee - great water view......

On Mar 23, 2010, at 11:34 AM, Conrad Hoffsommer wrote:

> DARN!
>
> You almost had it sold until I saw the pix... ;-}
>
> Conrad Hoffsommer
>
>
>
>
> From: mfarrel2@tampabay.rr.com
> To: pianotech@ptg.org
> Date: Tue, 23 Mar 2010 10:42:57 -0400
> Subject: Re: [pianotech] Las Vegas convention
>
> On Mar 23, 2010, at 8:59 AM, Brian Trout wrote:
>
> I dunno, Terry.  Get me "down under" and I may not want to come  
> back.  LOL!!
>
> Is there a reasonable way to get there other than on a plane?  I  
> hate flying...
>
> Brian
>
> Sure. Hop on a ship! Might take a bit longer than a plane, but  
> unless you have some sort of Star-Treck-type transporter, I think  
> those are your only two practical options (that's why I rule out  
> swimming). I don't know if there are passenger ships that go there,  
> but my understanding is that at least some, and maybe many,  
> commercial cargo ships often have quarters that they rent to private  
> individuals for overseas passage - way less expensive than doing it  
> on the Queen Mary.
>
> Or, better yet, get a boat! Hey, and I just happen to have the  
> perfect boat for ya! A world-class, ocean-going sailboat. A 1963  
> mahogany-on-oak Norwegian-designed and Swedish-built, Folkboat. Many  
> of this design have been sailed around the world. And being the nice  
> guy you are, I'd give you a really special deal!
>
> Oh, it does have a little dent in it.......  :-(
>
> Terry Farrell
>
> <DSCN4962.jpg>
>
> <DSCN4983.jpg>
>
> PS: Yes, I was rebuilding it - this just happened a couple months  
> ago......  :-(
>
>


  • 43.  Las Vegas convention

    Registered Piano Technician
    Posted 03-23-2010 10:06 
    From Conrad Hoffsommer <choffsommer@hotmail.com>

Well... I just got a harpsichord with about the same caveat. 75sq ft of sail should do for it, right?

Conrad Hoffsommer




From: mfarrel2@tampabay.rr.com
To: pianotech@ptg.org
Date: Tue, 23 Mar 2010 11:50:43 -0400
Subject: Re: [pianotech] Las Vegas convention

Oh, "it's just a scratch"! Come on now, a trip or two to Home Depot, a few hours, and back to new!
Terry Farrell
PS: I also have some wonderful real estate for sale just south of lake Okeechobee - great water view......
On Mar 23, 2010, at 11:34 AM, Conrad Hoffsommer wrote:DARN!

You almost had it sold until I saw the pix... ;-}

Conrad Hoffsommer




From: mfarrel2@tampabay.rr.com
To: pianotech@ptg.org
Date: Tue, 23 Mar 2010 10:42:57 -0400
Subject: Re: [pianotech] Las Vegas convention

On Mar 23, 2010, at 8:59 AM, Brian Trout wrote:I dunno, Terry.  Get me "down under" and I may not want to come back.  LOL!!
 
Is there a reasonable way to get there other than on a plane?  I hate flying...
 
Brian
Sure. Hop on a ship! Might take a bit longer than a plane, but unless you have some sort of Star-Treck-type transporter, I think those are your only two practical options (that's why I rule out swimming). I don't know if there are passenger ships that go there, but my understanding is that at least some, and maybe many, commercial cargo ships often have quarters that they rent to private individuals for overseas passage - way less expensive than doing it on the Queen Mary.
Or, better yet, get a boat! Hey, and I just happen to have the perfect boat for ya! A world-class, ocean-going sailboat. A 1963 mahogany-on-oak Norwegian-designed and Swedish-built, Folkboat. Many of this design have been sailed around the world. And being the nice guy you are, I'd give you a really special deal!
Oh, it does have a little dent in it.......  :-(
Terry Farrell
<DSCN4962.jpg>
<DSCN4983.jpg>
PS: Yes, I was rebuilding it - this just happened a couple months ago......  :-(


  • 44.  Las Vegas convention

    Posted 03-23-2010 10:16 
    From Terry Farrell <mfarrel2@tampabay.rr.com>

Sounds 'bout right to me. Too bad its not a piano - you can always use  
the plate for a very nice mooring base!

Terry Farrell

On Mar 23, 2010, at 12:05 PM, Conrad Hoffsommer wrote:

> Well... I just got a harpsichord with about the same caveat. 75sq ft  
> of sail should do for it, right?
>
> Conrad Hoffsommer


  • 45.  Las Vegas convention

    Posted 03-23-2010 12:34 
    From paul bruesch <paul@bruesch.net>

Sell it to PPT!!
AnOn

On Tue, Mar 23, 2010 at 10:50 AM, Terry Farrell <mfarrel2@tampabay.rr.com>wrote:

> Oh, "it's just a scratch"! Come on now, a trip or two to Home Depot, a few
> hours, and back to new!
>
> Terry Farrell
>
> PS: I also have some wonderful real estate for sale just south of lake
> Okeechobee - great water view......
>
> On Mar 23, 2010, at 11:34 AM, Conrad Hoffsommer wrote:
>
> DARN!
>
> You almost had it sold until I saw the pix... ;-}
>
> Conrad Hoffsommer
>
>
>
>
> ------------------------------
> From: mfarrel2@tampabay.rr.com
> To: pianotech@ptg.org
> Date: Tue, 23 Mar 2010 10:42:57 -0400
> Subject: Re: [pianotech] Las Vegas convention
>
> On Mar 23, 2010, at 8:59 AM, Brian Trout wrote:
>
> I dunno, Terry.  Get me "down under" and I may not want to come back.
> LOL!!
>
> Is there a reasonable way to get there other than on a plane?  I hate
> flying...
>
> Brian
>
>
> Sure. Hop on a ship! Might take a bit longer than a plane, but unless you
> have some sort of Star-Treck-type transporter, I think those are your only
> two practical options (that's why I rule out swimming). I don't know if
> there are passenger ships that go there, but my understanding is that at
> least some, and maybe many, commercial cargo ships often have quarters that
> they rent to private individuals for overseas passage - way less expensive
> than doing it on the Queen Mary.
>
> Or, better yet, get a boat! Hey, and I just happen to have the perfect boat
> for ya! A world-class, ocean-going sailboat. A 1963 mahogany-on-oak
> Norwegian-designed and Swedish-built, Folkboat. Many of this design have
> been sailed around the world. And being the nice guy you are, I'd give you a
> really special deal!
>
> Oh, it does have a little dent in it.......  :-(
>
> Terry Farrell
>
> <DSCN4962.jpg>
>
> <DSCN4983.jpg>
>
> PS: Yes, I was rebuilding it - this just happened a couple months ago......
>  :-(
>
>
>
>


  • 46.  Las Vegas convention

    Posted 03-23-2010 12:58 
    From Terry Farrell <mfarrel2@tampabay.rr.com>

What, the real estate, or the boat? Hey, both!

Terry Farrell

On Mar 23, 2010, at 2:34 PM, paul bruesch wrote:

> Sell it to PPT!!
> AnOn
>
> On Tue, Mar 23, 2010 at 10:50 AM, Terry Farrell <mfarrel2@tampabay.rr.com 
> > wrote:
> Oh, "it's just a scratch"! Come on now, a trip or two to Home Depot,  
> a few hours, and back to new!
>
> Terry Farrell
>
> PS: I also have some wonderful real estate for sale just south of  
> lake Okeechobee - great water view......
>
> On Mar 23, 2010, at 11:34 AM, Conrad Hoffsommer wrote:
>
>> DARN!
>>
>> You almost had it sold until I saw the pix... ;-}
>>
>> Conrad Hoffsommer
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> From: mfarrel2@tampabay.rr.com
>> To: pianotech@ptg.org
>> Date: Tue, 23 Mar 2010 10:42:57 -0400
>> Subject: Re: [pianotech] Las Vegas convention
>>
>> On Mar 23, 2010, at 8:59 AM, Brian Trout wrote:
>>
>> I dunno, Terry.  Get me "down under" and I may not want to come  
>> back.  LOL!!
>>
>> Is there a reasonable way to get there other than on a plane?  I  
>> hate flying...
>>
>> Brian
>>
>> Sure. Hop on a ship! Might take a bit longer than a plane, but  
>> unless you have some sort of Star-Treck-type transporter, I think  
>> those are your only two practical options (that's why I rule out  
>> swimming). I don't know if there are passenger ships that go there,  
>> but my understanding is that at least some, and maybe many,  
>> commercial cargo ships often have quarters that they rent to  
>> private individuals for overseas passage - way less expensive than  
>> doing it on the Queen Mary.
>>
>> Or, better yet, get a boat! Hey, and I just happen to have the  
>> perfect boat for ya! A world-class, ocean-going sailboat. A 1963  
>> mahogany-on-oak Norwegian-designed and Swedish-built, Folkboat.  
>> Many of this design have been sailed around the world. And being  
>> the nice guy you are, I'd give you a really special deal!
>>
>> Oh, it does have a little dent in it.......  :-(
>>
>> Terry Farrell
>>
>> <DSCN4962.jpg>
>>
>> <DSCN4983.jpg>
>>
>> PS: Yes, I was rebuilding it - this just happened a couple months  
>> ago......  :-(
>>
>>
>
>


  • 47.  Las Vegas convention

    Registered Piano Technician
    Posted 03-23-2010 12:15 
    From tnrwim@aol.com

but my understanding is that at least some, and maybe many, commercial cargo ships often have quarters that they rent to private individuals for overseas passage - way less expensive than doing it on the Queen Mary.
>From what I've heard, those accommodations are, for the most part,not available any more. Most cargo ships are container ships, and there are just barely enough cabins for the crew. 


Wim



    
                                                
    
					
                                                    

                
    
                    
    
                        
                        
                    
    
                
    
        
                                                
				
    
                                                
    
                                                    
                                                        
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  • 48.  Las Vegas convention

    Posted 03-23-2010 16:19 
    From "Bruce Browning - The Piano Tuner" <justpianos@our.net.au>

Brian,
Try swimming, we all do it, but whatch out for those big whites (sharks).





>
> Is there a reasonable way to get there other than on a plane?  I hate
> flying...
>
>


  • 49.  Las Vegas convention

    Posted 03-23-2010 16:19 
    From "Bruce Browning - The Piano Tuner" <justpianos@our.net.au>

Brian,
Try swimming, we all do it, but watch out for those big whites (sharks).





>
> Is there a reasonable way to get there other than on a plane?  I hate
> flying...
>
>


  • 50.  Las Vegas convention

    Posted 03-23-2010 16:20 
    From "Bruce Browning - The Piano Tuner" <justpianos@our.net.au>

Brian,
Try swimming, we all do it, but watch out for those big whites (sharks).





>
> Is there a reasonable way to get there other than on a plane?  I hate
> flying...
>
>


  • 51.  Las Vegas convention

    Registered Piano Technician
    Posted 03-22-2010 21:34 
    From tnrwim@aol.com

Robin

Send your note to Barbara and Sandy at the Home Office. They should be made aware of this situation. 

I have just reserved a week at the Palace Station Hotel, which is about a mile from the convention hotel, for about $400 less than what Bally's will be. With the savings, I am renting a car for $200, and still come out ahead. Both places offer free parking. 

Wim


    
                                                
    
					
                                                    

        
                                                
				
    
                                                
    
                                                    
                                                        
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  • 52.  Las Vegas convention

    Posted 03-22-2010 22:07 
    From pianofritz50@aol.com

Try taking a look at www.tripadvisor.com for usually some very honest reviews...  I have no experience nor comment.

http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g45963-d121312-Reviews-Bally_s_Las_Vegas_Hotel_Casino-Las_Vegas_Nevada.html

Bill Fritz, St Louis




From:
Robin Stevens <pianobee@bigpond.com>

To:
pianotech@ptg.org

Subject:
[pianotech] Las Vegas convention

Date:
Tue, 23 Mar 2010 07:58:11 +1030


I plan with two other of my OZ Piano tuner colleagues to come to the Las Vegas convention in June. But doing some research on the Bally’s Motel Hotel accommodation, which is offered to  be the place to stay I have found some disturbing opinions of the venue, such as below. There were many similar opinions posted. 

<Bally's is off our list of places to stay in Las Vegas. The first room we got was horrid. The furniture was so beat up it looked like a flop house for drunks. We changed rooms and it wasn't much better. The real problem was the smell. After 20 minutes in the first room my throat hurt so bad I welcomed the smoke in the casino. It was a harsh Clorox type smell and it was throughout the hallway and rooms. Luckily the window of this room could be opened for some relief but it still gave us sore throats and headaches. To top it off we had a dispute at checkout with the rate we were charged. That took at least half an hour to get corrected. We will never return and I would not recommend it to anyone.>
I know that the above might not apply to the whole hotel, but I would assume that the convention organisers are aware of these problems and reserved a group of rooms far different than the above critique. I hope someone can put my mind to rest.
Thanks
Robin Stevens ARPT
South Australia


  • 53.  Las Vegas convention

    Posted 03-22-2010 22:55 
    From Rob McCall <rob@mccallpiano.com>

I have a reservation at the Westin Casuarina which is right behind Bally's for the same $109 per night.  It's smaller and quieter but really clean with the great Heavenly beds by Westin! I've stayed there many many nights and always had a great night's sleep. And it's a short 5 minute walk to Bally's. It's a known entity to me, so why change?  :-)

Regards,

Rob McCall

McCall Piano Service, LLC
www.mccallpiano.com
Murrieta, CA
951-698-1875



On Mar 22, 2010, at 21:07 , pianofritz50@aol.com wrote:

> Try taking a look at www.tripadvisor.com for usually some very honest reviews...  I have no experience nor comment.
>  
> http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g45963-d121312-Reviews-Bally_s_Las_Vegas_Hotel_Casino-Las_Vegas_Nevada.html
>  
> Bill Fritz, St Louis
> 
> From:	Robin Stevens <pianobee@bigpond.com>
> To:	pianotech@ptg.org
> Subject:	[pianotech] Las Vegas convention
> Date:	Tue, 23 Mar 2010 07:58:11 +1030
> I plan with two other of my OZ Piano tuner colleagues to come to the Las Vegas convention in June. But doing some research on the Bally?s Motel Hotel accommodation, which is offered to  be the place to stay I have found some disturbing opinions of the venue, such as below. There were many similar opinions posted.
> <Bally's is off our list of places to stay in Las Vegas. The first room we got was horrid. The furniture was so beat up it looked like a flop house for drunks. We changed rooms and it wasn't much better. The real problem was the smell. After 20 minutes in the first room my throat hurt so bad I welcomed the smoke in the casino. It was a harsh Clorox type smell and it was throughout the hallway and rooms. Luckily the window of this room could be opened for some relief but it still gave us sore throats and headaches. To top it off we had a dispute at checkout with the rate we were charged. That took at least half an hour to get corrected. We will never return and I would not recommend it to anyone.>
> I know that the above might not apply to the whole hotel, but I would assume that the convention organisers are aware of these problems and reserved a group of rooms far different than the above critique. I hope someone can put my mind to rest.
> Thanks
> Robin Stevens ARPT
> South Australia


  • 54.  Las Vegas convention

    Posted 03-22-2010 23:40 
    From "David Ilvedson" <ilvey@sbcglobal.net>

As I mentioned, room nights are the only way the convention is going keep going.   If everyone is looking for a cheaper or "better" place to stay other than the convention hotel, you can say goodbye to conventions.   Or they will be much more expensive.

David Ilvedson, RPT
Pacifica, CA  94044


    
                                                
    
					
                                                    

        
                                                
				
    
                                                
    
                                                    
                                                        
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  • 55.  Las Vegas convention

    Posted 03-23-2010 00:07 
    From Rob McCall <rob@mccallpiano.com>

I might be willing to change to Bally's if I have some reasonable assurance that the rooms, the smell, etc. won't be an issue.  If there is no issue, great. I'll be there supporting the convention.  If there is a problem, then the head office needs to consider more due diligence on researching places to hold conventions... And I'll be staying somewhere else nearby at this convention.  I thought the hotel at the PNWC up in Bellevue, WA was great earlier this month and I stayed right there at the same hotel.  Same thing in Grand Rapids.

I've spent too many nights in flea bag, smelly, smoky hotels to want to subject myself to that for 5-6 days straight!  I hope the PTG can clarify the issue.

Regards,

Rob McCall

McCall Piano Service, LLC
www.mccallpiano.com
Murrieta, CA
951-698-1875



On Mar 22, 2010, at 22:40 , David Ilvedson wrote:

> As I mentioned, room nights are the only way the convention is going keep going.   If everyone is looking for a cheaper or "better" place to stay other than the convention hotel, you can say goodbye to conventions.   Or they will be much more expensive.
> 
> David Ilvedson, RPT
> Pacifica, CA  94044
> 
> 
    
                                                
    
					
                                                    

        
                                                
				
    
                                                
    
                                                    
                                                        
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  • 56.  Las Vegas convention

    Registered Piano Technician
    Posted 03-23-2010 08:49 
    From "Ken & Pat Gerler" <kenneth.gerler@prodigy.net>

FWIW,
MITA, International holds their convention every year on LV and, as we have 
it set up, the hotel room rentals ONLY give us one or two "gratis" guest 
room nights. The convention in the meeting rooms is a separate entity as we 
supply "food items" every day of the convention and that covers some of the 
meeting space. All be it we use fewer meeting rooms.

Ken Gerler


    
                                                
    
					
                                                    

        
                                                
				
    
                                                
    
                                                    
                                                        
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  • 57.  Las Vegas convention

    Posted 03-23-2010 06:12 
    From "Al Guecia/AlliedPianoCraft" <AlliedPianoCraft@hotmail.com>

Las Vegas conventionI go to Vegas about twice a year and that's my Hotel of choice. You will always get people who for one reason or another have a bad experience. You don't have to swear on a Bible when you write one of these bad comments. Maybe they lost their house gambling and had to take it out on someone.

Al - 
High Point, NC

  From: Robin Stevens 
  Sent: Monday, March 22, 2010 5:28 PM
  To: pianotech@ptg.org 
  Subject: [pianotech] Las Vegas convention


  I plan with two other of my OZ Piano tuner colleagues to come to the Las Vegas convention in June. But doing some research on the Bally's Motel Hotel accommodation, which is offered to  be the place to stay I have found some disturbing opinions of the venue, such as below. There were many similar opinions posted. 


  <Bally's is off our list of places to stay in Las Vegas. The first room we got was horrid. The furniture was so beat up it looked like a flop house for drunks. We changed rooms and it wasn't much better. The real problem was the smell. After 20 minutes in the first room my throat hurt so bad I welcomed the smoke in the casino. It was a harsh Clorox type smell and it was throughout the hallway and rooms. Luckily the window of this room could be opened for some relief but it still gave us sore throats and headaches. To top it off we had a dispute at checkout with the rate we were charged. That took at least half an hour to get corrected. We will never return and I would not recommend it to anyone.>

  I know that the above might not apply to the whole hotel, but I would assume that the convention organisers are aware of these problems and reserved a group of rooms far different than the above critique. I hope someone can put my mind to rest.

  Thanks

  Robin Stevens ARPT

  South Australia


  • 58.  Las Vegas convention

    Posted 03-23-2010 08:43 
    From RWyatt8547@aol.com

I stayed at Bally's in September for the  planning meeting and we had no 
problems that has been told here. we saw the  rooms and stayed in the same 
type of rooms that we will have at convention.  There was no smell of smoke on 
my non smoking floor and the casino was ok too.  The people were great and 
we had good service where ever we went. 
    This is going to be a great convention and if you  don't have fun it 
will be your own fault.
 
            WE ARE GOING TO HAVE A GREAT TIME   (Sorry)
 
                                                                            
                                    Rick Wyatt
                                                                            
                                        A/V Staff
    
 
 
In a message dated 3/23/2010 6:17:02 A.M. Central Standard Time,  
AlliedPianoCraft@hotmail.com writes:

I go to Vegas about twice a year and that's  my Hotel of choice. You will 
always get people who for one reason or  another have a bad experience. You 
don't have to swear on a Bible when you  write one of these bad comments. 
Maybe they lost their house gambling and had  to take it out on someone.
 
Al - 
High Point, NC
 

 
From: _Robin  Stevens_ (mailto:pianobee@bigpond.com)  
Sent: Monday, March 22, 2010 5:28 PM
To: _pianotech@ptg.org_ (mailto:pianotech@ptg.org)  
Subject: [pianotech] Las Vegas convention



I plan with two other of  my OZ Piano tuner colleagues to come to the Las  
Vegas convention in  June. But doing some research on the Bally’s Motel 
Hotel accommodation, which is  offered to  be the  place to stay I have found  
some disturbing opinions of the venue, such as below. There were many similar 
opinions posted.  
<Bally's is off our list of places to stay in  Las Vegas. The first room we 
got was horrid. The furniture was so beat up it  looked like a flop house 
for drunks. We changed rooms and it wasn't much  better. The real problem was 
the smell. After 20 minutes in the first room  my throat hurt so bad I 
welcomed the smoke in the casino. It was a  harsh Clorox type  smell and it was 
throughout  the hallway and rooms. Luckily the window of this room could be 
opened for  some relief but it still gave us sore throats and headaches. To 
top it off  we had a dispute at checkout with the rate we were charged. That 
took at  least half an hour to get corrected. We will never return and I 
would not  recommend it to anyone.> 
I know  that the  above might not apply to  the whole hotel,  but I would 
assume that  the convention organisers are aware  of these problems  and 
reserved a group of  rooms far different than the above critique. I hope someone 
can put my mind to  rest. 
Thanks 
Robin Stevens ARPT 
South  Australia


  • 59.  Las Vegas convention

    Posted 03-23-2010 08:53 
    From RWyatt8547@aol.com

Sorry about the caps and bold type
 
                                                                rick
 
 
In a message dated 3/23/2010 8:48:48 A.M. Central Standard Time,  
RWyatt8547@aol.com writes:

    I stayed at Bally's in September for the  planning meeting and we had 
no problems that has been told here. we saw  the rooms and stayed in the same 
type of rooms that we will have at  convention. There was no smell of smoke 
on my non smoking floor and the casino  was ok too. The people were great 
and we had good service where ever we went.  
This is going to be a great convention and if you  don't have fun it will 
be your own fault.
 
            WE ARE GOING TO HAVE A GREAT TIME   (Sorry)
 
                                                                            
                                    Rick Wyatt
                                                                            
                                        A/V Staff
    
 
 
In a message dated 3/23/2010 6:17:02 A.M. Central Standard Time,  
AlliedPianoCraft@hotmail.com writes:

I go to Vegas about twice a year and that's  my Hotel of choice. You will 
always get people who for one reason or  another have a bad experience. You 
don't have to swear on a Bible when you  write one of these bad comments. 
Maybe they lost their house gambling and  had to take it out on someone.
 
Al - 
High Point, NC
 

 
From: _Robin  Stevens_ (mailto:pianobee@bigpond.com)  
Sent: Monday, March 22, 2010 5:28 PM
To: _pianotech@ptg.org_ (mailto:pianotech@ptg.org)  
Subject: [pianotech] Las Vegas convention



I plan with two other of  my OZ Piano tuner colleagues  to come  to the Las 
Vegas  convention in  June. But doing some research on the Bally’s Motel 
Hotel accommodation, which is  offered to  be the  place to stay I have  found 
some disturbing opinions of the venue, such as  below. There  were many 
similar opinions posted.  
<Bally's is off our list of places to stay in  Las Vegas. The first room we 
got was horrid. The furniture was so beat up  it looked like a flop house 
for drunks. We changed rooms and it wasn't  much better. The real problem was 
the smell. After 20 minutes in the first  room my throat hurt so bad I 
welcomed the smoke in the casino. It was a  harsh Clorox type  smell and it was 
throughout  the hallway and rooms. Luckily the window of this room could be 
opened for  some relief but it still gave us sore throats and headaches. To 
top it off  we had a dispute at checkout with the rate we were charged. That 
took at  least half an hour to get corrected. We will never return and I 
would not  recommend it to anyone.> 
I know  that the  above might not apply to  the whole hotel,  but I would 
assume that  the convention organisers are  aware of these problems  and 
reserved a group of  rooms far different than the above critique. I hope someone 
can put my mind to  rest. 
Thanks 
Robin  Stevens  ARPT 
South  Australia