Overland Expo: North America's First Overland Exposition

[Scott Brady]

http://www.ovexpo.com/images/stories/TitleBox.png (http://www.ovexpo.com/)

I cannot tell you how excited we are by this news. Conserventures, a company owned by Roseann Hanson, has launched the first-ever overland exposition and vendor show in North America. The details are developing rapidly, but we expect this to be the first comprehensive assembly of all major expedition vehicles and trailers, with companies like EarthRoamer, Adventure Trailers and others all assembling in one place.

The event will be held in Prescott, Arizona, which is a wonderful place to visit in spring, and all of the activities will be held in one area, allowing for camping right at the event location.

We wanted to announce this to the ExPo community first, and invite our members and sponsors to be the first to sign up.

Here is the website: www.ovexpo.com (http://www.ovexpo.com)

Unlike the Expedition Trophy, this venue can handle hundreds of camping spots and even full RV connections. However, there are only 200 Overland Experience packages open, which we expect to fill quickly.

Also exciting are the headliners we have coming, including Tom Collins of the Camel Trophy, and Lois Pryce, solo-woman adventure rider.

[Scott Brady]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 19, 2008
Contact: Roseann Hanson, 520-591-1410
roseann@ovexpo.com
http://www.ovexpo.com


First Event for Overlanders –
Offering education, exploration, and conservation April 24 – 26, 2009


Prescott, Arizona – Overland Expo is the first-ever event exclusively for the overlanding community, to be held April 24 – 26, 2009, in central Arizona’s beautiful Prescott Valley.

 Overland enthusiasts from all over the world will gather to share experiences and learn new practical skills as well as tips on how to get out there exploring the world—whether 100 miles or 10,000 miles from home.

Featured instructors and presenters include Tom Collins, director for the U.S. Camel Trophy teams, and Lois Pryce, global motorcycle adventurer and author of Lois on the Loose and White Knuckles and Red Tape. The title sponsor of the event will be Overland Journal, the publication for environmentally responsible, world-wide expedition and adventure travel.



Overland Expo will feature: On-site adventure driving courses for 4WD and motorcycle; hands-on instruction from Overland Training; a large product and service exposition; opportunities to “try before you buy,” from roof tents to trailers to recovery gear and much more; feature vehicles; evening social programs; on-site camping; family emphasis (kids are free – daycare will be available); and instructors and guests from the global overland community, including Overland Journal’s staff and contributors.

“Now is the time to rediscover the joys of camping—and in a way you've never imagined, in comfort and safety and style,” said Roseann Hanson, director of Overland Expo, which is being produced for sponsors by ConserVentures, an event management and conservation business consultancy. “And in tight economic times, camping and overland adventures are still the cheapest way to have fantastic vacations.

“Compare the cost of a 4-day theme park vacation for four with that of four weeks exploring the Four Corners or Mexico—not only a quarter the cost, but incomparable in memories,” Hanson said.

The Overland Experience packages are available online and will include all of the above at a special introductory price. Overland Experience Package Single – $245 one adult; Overland Experience Package Double - $455 two adults, kids are free. Day passes will be available at the gate, or for advanced purchase online as two-day tickets. Prices will go up after February 28, 2009.

For more information: http://www.ovexpo.com, roseann@ovexpo.com, 520-591-1410

[weezerbot]

OH NO!!! Not the same weekend as Sedonafest!! :oops: :(

[Scott Brady]

OH NO!!! Not the same weekend as Sedonafest!! :oops: :(

Lance is aware of this, and we are working on a few solutions.

[DaktariEd]

Woo-hoo!
Looks great Scott & Roseann!
:rally_guys:

http://www.geocities.com/daktaried/safari.gif

[Fergie]

Lance is aware of this, and we are working on a few solutions.

Is registration transferable if the original purchaser has to back out at the last moment?

[kellymoe]

This is exciting. I am going to do my best to make it but it falls over two of my shifts:( Hope to see you all there.

[Scott Brady]

Is registration transferable if the original purchaser has to back out at the last moment?

Good question: Yes, the registration will be transferable. The refund policy if highlighted in the terms and conditions on the site.

[Desertdude]

Congratulations, and well done!
Prescott is a great location for this fantastic event... not to be missed.

[Cabrito]

Neat.
Let's see if I can fit this into our spring road trip..

-m

[haven]

The venue is the new Yavapai County Fairgrounds. The Fairgrounds are about 2 miles east
of the Intersection of N Robert Rd and Fain Rd, in Prescott Valley AZ.

Search Google Maps: 10501 E US Hwy 89A, Cottonwood, Arizona 86326

Search Mapquest: 10401 E Us Highway 89a Prescott Valley, AZ 86315-9781

The Fairgrounds are about halfway between Jerome and Prescott on US 89A, a 30 minute drive from
Prescott, and about 40 minutes from Jerome because you drive over a mountain.

Chip Haven

[Christian P.]

this is awesome. I will try to be there with my Syncro.

[cybercat]

Awesome!!! And right after tax returns.

[DaktariEd]

Scott,
Will this Overland ExPo replace the ExPo Trophy event? :rally_guys:
Inquiring minds want to know!

http://www.geocities.com/daktaried/safari.gif

[Scott Brady]

Ed,

I need to think on that a little bit. I expect we will still have an ExPo event with trophy elements, but the Overland ExPo will certainly be the premier event of the year.

[WhereTheHellIsJames?]

This looks like a really good excuse to come for a visit to Prescott!

[Scott Brady]

Yes it does James :D

[jeepmedic46]

Hoping to make it.:archaeolo

[1leglance]

everyone make sure you realize that there are 2 ticket types....
the overland experience and the "walk around ticket"...so if money is tight it is worth at least attending and checking things out..
however if you are really into this stuff like most of us then the Overland Expereince might be worth it!

[OneTime]

Cool!! Its an hour away from home (Lake Pleasant). I can take a break from medic school and do the day thing. Maybe I meet some local guys. Seems like AZ is Ground Zero for this site. Im only arm chair exploring till I get out of school. Would be cool to see many of the rigs on here in person.

[Flounder]

I'll be there for sure! For those not in the know, Prescott is situated right smack dab in the middle of all sorts of cool outdoor playgrounds. It's impossible to get here and not pass by some amazing overlanding options. What a perfect reason to come to Prescott.

And April means the temps for AZ from Flagstaff to Tucson will be ideal.

[BajaTaco]

This is a dream come true for me. After all these years of seeing the huge overland/expedition oriented expositions and shows in outher countries, we finally have one here in the U.S.A. I can't wait to meet more overlanders and adventurists, and see all of the cool 4x4s and ADV bikes. We'll need to start some threads to coordinate some great routes coming in to (or leaving) the event from all directions. There are endless possibilities in that respect.

:wings: :clapsmile :jumping:

Don't forget to bring your camera.

[MuddyMudskipper]

This event looks like its the cure for the common off-road expo! I'm going to try hard to make it out.
















http://www.ovexpo.com/images/stories/overland.jpg

Hey its Bill Ruttan. I have met him a few times and he was the tailgunner on a trail I led a few years ago. Bill has always been a pleasure to be around and an outstanding individual.

http://i110.photobucket.com/albums/n100/mrburns71/BillRuttan.jpg

[TACODOC]

I'll be deployed in April :smilies27

Please post lots of pics!!!

[flywgn]

This does look like a don't-miss-event. We'll make plans...maybe even bring a 'ringer' for the rally event. :D :rally_guys:


I'll be deployed in April :smilies27

Please post lots of pics!!!

We'll do more than that, Doc. We'll lift several adult beverages in your honor and to your health.

Allen R

[Connie]

Curse all of you that are going to be there!!! It is one of only two weekends in the entire year that I absolutely can't make it. Aaaaaaaaarrrrrrrrrggggggg!:ar15: :violent-smiley-031:

So you folks all better post up plenty of pictures during the event for me to look at while I am all the way across the country cursing your names.

Okay, done being grumpy now. :o Looks great I'm sure it will be a good time!:sombrero:

[serialNSXer]

Wow, this sounds great. Just what I was looking for. My wife and I will attend if we can get the new ride cleared and ready for this event.

[MuddyMudskipper]

Wow, this sounds great. Just what I was looking for. My wife and I will attend if we can get the new ride cleared and ready for this event.

You're bringing the Benetton? SWEET! :D

[SOAZ]

This is a must do for us! See everyone there!
:tent:

Oh yah, bring mountain bikes and dirt bikes. I'll have mine to go out on a ride or two!

[ttora4runner]

I'm going to try and make it up for Saturday, nice 4hr drive from Yuma.

[Flounder]

This is a must do for us! See everyone there!
:tent:

Oh yah, bring mountain bikes and dirt bikes. I'll have mine to go out on a ride or two!Hey Tim, If you can get away from the ExPo for a couple hours on the morning of the 25th, you can join me for the Whiskey Offroad Mountain Bike Race. Two killer events in one Prescottonian weekend!!

[DesertRose]

This is going to be an amazing event everyone - don't wait too long to sign up, because the Overland Experience packages are LIMITED. Overland Experience packages include the camping on-site, the instructional seminars and driving course and the banquet and fun! Day Passes will be great, too, but won't include the classes and driving course, though you can watch.

Check out the website http://www.ovexpo.com

I'll be gone to Baja from 26 December through the 9th January but will be back and ready to help anyone with questions after that.

We'll be setting up a place where attendees can plan pre- or post-Expo routes and social planning. We'll make suggestions, too, for routes.

To paraphrase, this is going to be the start of something BIG!!

Roseann

[DesertRose]

One clarification here before we get too far down the road:

Overland Expo is not a rally in the traditional sense.

It's an exposition and education venue - we'll have a large service and product exposition of vendors and organizations, and we'll have a really cool driving course and classes and seminars on everything from preparing for a global journey to how to bring along your babies on weekend trips.

There will be on-site camping and lots of evening social fun.

The driving portions will be instructional and for people who sign up for the Overland Experience package.

That's not to say attendees (we have several hundred slots open for Overland Experience) won't be able to plan their own pre- or post-Expo driving routes with friends. We're even going to help you plan for that!

This is going to be so much fun!

[1leglance]

I think will be a perfect chance for Disabled Explorers to invite as many folks as possible with mobility issues to see how overlanding would work for them as a way to see the backcountry.

After attending other shows and seeing a total lack of overlanding related stuff I am looking forward to all the cool companies that should be there.

Like Tim-SOAZ said we finally get something like those cool shows in South Africa & Oz

[DesertRose]

We're very happy to announce that we'll be holding a very big raffle fundraiser for Disabled Explorers at Overland Expo.2009, and Lance and his team will be there with a great camp and vehicle display, front and center. We hope to get a number of folks from around the west down to the Expo to find out how overlanding can enable them to get out and see the world.

Thanks Lance!

[milo12]

Just signed up, cant wait.:jumping:

Is there a thread started for pre or post expo group trips near Prescott?

[Hilldweller]

Ooooooo.
I just asked my sweetie if she'd like to move our vacation ahead a month...

[strap22]

www.TRDParts4U.com and www.ToyotaOffroadOutfitters.com
Proud Sponsor of Overland Journal

We are looking at our calender and trying to add this to our Events for this coming year.

Scott this is a great idea and I am so glad to see something like this put together. Having the vendors all together in one place (Prescott is a perfect location) to display products, conduct educational training, hands on instruction and socializing with other Overlanders is very exciting.

I will call you today and discuss the details.

Phil

[portaladmin]

Phil,

We would be honored to have you and your team.

[strap22]

Thanks, we are looking forward to it. I still have some details to work out but it looks like we will be able make it.

[Hilldweller]

Sweetie said "interesting" ---- this could be great.

Could we get a few regional stickies for people who might want to caravan to the event? Camping along the way?

This is the overlanders' equivalent to a holy pilgrimage...

[jcbrandon]

So Lance and Disabled Explorers will be there to represent. Any other alumni from Expedition Trophy 2008 planning to attend? How 'bout from previous years?

I'm working to re-arrange my spring calendar to include Overland Expo. The event schedule already includes at least one organized happy hour. I reckon there will be others, yes? Perhaps Spanish Coffee (http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?p=289146#post289146) will make a return appearance in Arizona.

It would be great to see Trail Monkey on the driving courses. And Tony and his ribs. Maybe Jacket will show us how to rattle the bones. And, on and on...

This could be an Up-Yers (http://www.expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=19850) reunion.

...

Trail Monkey shows us how they drive in New York:

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3207/2972561767_1e50b6e294.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/jbrandon/2972561767/)

...

Expedition Trophy 2008 champion and the bones:

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3239/2972567901_d04574fea5.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/jbrandon/2972567901/)

...

[SFDE71]

So I have been lurking on this site for a while now, all the while looking for my first Land Cruiser. I had seen the advertisement for the expo and thought it would be a great way to dive into the overlanding thing. But I didn't think my wife would go for it this year since we have several other trips and a new little girl this year.

Out of the blue, my wife calls me at work the other day and asks if I want to go to Arizona in April:Wow1:. After wiping up the coffee I spit out, I said are you kidding me, of course. She had been reading a copy of my Overland Journal and said she never realized how much cool stuff was out there for camping, overlanding, etc. Needless to say we have booked our spot:wings: and will be there for sure. I love my wife.

Matt

[Scott Brady]

Awesome Matt!

[elcoyote]

This is a monumental. A first for the US I think. Thanks Scott & all the OJ and EW team for galvanizing the Overland community to the extent to make this possible.

AT will be there in force with new products (yes, plural) and providing hands on instruction through Overland Training. This is going to be a fun, informative and memorable event for all who participate.

See you there!

[Colorado Ron]

Kids free? :Wow1:You sure you want to do that? Any limit?:wings:

LOL. We should be coming, kids and all!

[goodtimes]

I'll be there putting around on the 800GS. :bike_rider:

[JPFreek1]

The concept of this is a great one and I'm glad to see it's being done; however, not to be too critical but is it just me or does anyone else recognize that overlanding isn't something that only the affluent should be able to enjoy but rather anyone for a passion for outdoor and off-highway adventure should be able to benefit from, regardless of economics? Given the state of the economy and the average family looking for means to be able to travel on a budget and do so responsibly, something like this seems awfully expensive even with the experienced line-up planned for participation.

[jcbrandon]

... is it just me or does anyone else recognize that overlanding isn't something that only the affluent should be able to enjoy ...something like this seems awfully expensive ...

I agree that outdoor travel and adventure shouldn't just be for the well-to-do. And it isn't. It's one of the least expensive things a family can do together. Most of the folks I see out on the trails seem to be pretty average, middle-income, typical American families.

Regarding the Overland Expo: I see that as an opportunity to save money. A family that has been on a couple of weekend trips and is looking to expand their horizons will be wondering what gear to invest in and how to plan for longer and more challenging journeys. They might be looking into expensive vehicle upgrades like a winch and locking diffs. I think the training opportunities at Overland Expo would help those folks figure out how best to spend their money. Or maybe not spend it at all. A bit of time on a few obstacles with an experienced hand nearby will be tremendously valuable. They might decide to redirect the dollars they were going to spend on vehicle upgrades toward camping gear. Or on fuel and food for more trips.

I think the entry fee for a family is a great value.

[DaktariEd]

I agree that outdoor travel and adventure shouldn't just be for the well-to-do. And it isn't. It's one of the least expensive things a family can do together. Most of the folks I see out on the trails seem to be pretty average, middle-income, typical American families.

Regarding the Overland Expo: I see that as an opportunity to save money. A family that has been on a couple of weekend trips and is looking to expand their horizons will be wondering what gear to invest in and how to plan for longer and more challenging journeys. They might be looking into expensive vehicle upgrades like a winch and locking diffs. I think the training opportunities at Overland Expo would help those folks figure out how best to spend their money. Or maybe not spend it at all. A bit of time on a few obstacles with an experienced hand nearby will be tremendously valuable. They might decide to redirect the dollars they were going to spend on vehicle upgrades toward camping gear. Or on fuel and food for more trips.

I think the entry fee for a family is a great value.


:iagree: Excellent points.
As for the cost, I have to pay roughly $600 - $800 for registration for a 5-day medical conference, plus (usually) airfare ($300-500), and hotel/meal costs ($1000+) for 6-7 days.
The Overland Expo cost is very reasonable IMO.
And, more fun!

http://www.geocities.com/daktaried/safari.gif

[Jonathan Hanson]

The simplest two-day pass is 25 bucks. Not sure how much more affordable it could get!

I think Roseann has done a really good job of insuring that anyone can participate at some level. Even the all-inclusive $455-per-couple package translates to three nights in a good hotel, with nothing else included.

[JPFreek1]

The simplest two-day pass is 25 bucks. Not sure how much more affordable it could get!

I think Roseann has done a really good job of insuring that anyone can participate at some level. Even the all-inclusive $455-per-couple package translates to three nights in a good hotel, with nothing else included.

Thanks for the clarification on simple two-day passes. Somewhere along the lines I obviously didn't see this so it's good to see that's an option out there.

As far as comparing to hotel rooms, etc I don't think that's a particularly fair comparison because you're talking about two different types of vacation experiences. Either way, I didn't say what I said to create any discord. My intent was to merely raise a question about the focus of the event in relation to its perceived economic feasibility for the average "Joe." And I only raise that question because I've spoken to several different ExPo members away from ExPo and when asked if they had plans to attend, the consensus was that it was too expensive so obviously there are many out there who aren't aware of some of the less-expensive options to attend. Again, thanks for clarifying.

[Jonathan Hanson]

No discord, no worries, Frank.

Even the day passes will guarantee a lot of fun at this event, I think.

[Rexsname]

Will there be any way to do the day pass and pay our way into the dinner? Our finances are really tight as well but I really REALLY want to sit down and share a meal with the folks that have given me so much support and encouragement over the past few months.






Not that I wouldn't want to do the whole magilla but I just don't see that as being doable.


REX

[DesertRose]

Will there be any way to do the day pass and pay our way into the dinner? Our finances are really tight as well but I really REALLY want to sit down and share a meal with the folks that have given me so much support and encouragement over the past few months.
REX

Hi Rexsname,

I'm afraid the dinner is available to the Overland Experience participants - that's going to total, including our wonderful exhibitors, nearly 400 people, and to keep it do-able, we need to keep those numbers close to that. If we opened it up to all comers, it could easily become a monster that was very impersonal.

So sorry about that - maybe next year you can come for the whole Experience!

[DaktariEd]

You can always arrange to meet for lunch, snacks, drinks, whatever, outside (or inside, I suppose) the ExPo site.

http://www.geocities.com/daktaried/safari.gif

[DesertRose]

Thanks for all the comments and questions - we're filling up fast, just to let you guys know. There will be limited number of Overland Experience packages available, and the price will go up after February if we aren't full by then. And only the Overland Experience packages get access to all the instruction and the social times. See above.

As for being expensive, I really worked hard to keep the pricing really affordable, for so much included instruction and top-flight presenters. This is not just a pay-and-walk-around Expo, it's a truly rich learning experience.
And having kids come free and providing day care is as affordable as it gets, Frank!

I can't see offering so much instruction (have you looked at the website?) for so low a price - as well as keeping the exhibition prices low, too, so that the great overlanding companies out there can also afford to come.

[1speed]

I'm trying really hard to make it to this event as I'm thinking the "on the road, off the road, writing, photography" thing may be in my future. :drool: If I do make it, I will have to fly into PHX and rent a small motorhome as the wife is not too keen on tent camping. For the driving courses will there be demo/rental vehicles available or is it just "run what ya brung"? Either way I'm really excited about the prospect of being there and then spending the next 3 or 4 days after the event exploring the area.

[Rexsname]

I understand that the price is worth it, It's just that I don't have it.........

I do hope to be able to do the day passes. That being said, Anybody wanna go camping off-site yet fairly close?



REX

[Clark White]

I understand that the price is worth it, It's just that I don't have it.........

I do hope to be able to do the day passes. That being said, Anybody wanna go camping off-site yet fairly close?



REX

I might be up for that, I don't know yet if I will be able to attend, or if I will take all the classes, etc...either way, being from there I can point you in the direction of some close yet beautiful camping!!! :elkgrin:

Clark

[DesertRose]

You can always arrange to meet for lunch, snacks, drinks, whatever, outside (or inside, I suppose) the ExPo site.

Absolutely - most of the instructors and presenters at some point will be at exhibits and doing book signings, etc., on Saturday and Sunday.

[Rexsname]

Clark,

I've already got a spot picked out:wings:! Quiet, secluded yet only about 15 or 20 minutes from the fairgrounds. Its real nice but, who knows, I might like "your" spot better.




Do I need to buy the day passes prior to the event or will they still be available at the gate?


REX

[1speed]

WooHoo! :wings: Signed up last night for the full package! My wife and I will fly into PHX on the Thursday before and rent a small RV. I don't have to fly home until the Friday after so I get to explore AZ for 4 days.

[adventureduo]

Do I need to buy the day passes prior to the event or will they still be available at the gate?


REX

Great Question. If we go we'll be doing the day pass thing. There's no way we can commit to anything that far out right now... and with the economy the way it is.. we'll have to pass on the whole package for now too.

[Clark White]

I've got some ideas right at the base of Mingus Mtn. that would be really scenic and really convenient. If your spot is close by I'll bet if it's not the same as mine, it's darn close!

Clark

[DesertRose]

Great Question. If we go we'll be doing the day pass thing. There's no way we can commit to anything that far out right now... and with the economy the way it is.. we'll have to pass on the whole package for now too.

Hi guys - yes, Day Passes will be available at the gate both days (Saturday and Sunday).

Day Passes get entrance to the exposition - the exhibits, vendors, feature vehicles and so forth. Food vendors on hand (it's at the Fairgrounds).

So glad you can make it - it will be really cool no matter which way you swing it.

(As you've probably read, the seminars, classes, driving courses, and evening programs are for the Overland Experience packages. The way we have it set up you will be able to see the driving courses from the grandstands, to give you an idea for next year and perhaps to see some of the demo vehicles do their thing.)

[Rexsname]

"My" spot is up on top of Mingus but still close to all of the action. Maybe those of us that will be camping away from the Expo can host an 'Off-Site" campfire and s'mores stargazing lie swapping time on Saturday night after the big dinner.......




REX

[DesertRose]

"My" spot is up on top of Mingus but still close to all of the action. Maybe those of us that will be camping away from the Expo can host an 'Off-Site" campfire and s'mores stargazing lie swapping time on Saturday night after the big dinner.......




REX

Sounds nice (if a bit cold! check AZ weather at that elevation even in April - at least it's cold for desert rats like me).

Note the BBQ banquet is not Satuday but Sunday, early evening; we'll finalize the big raffle for Disabled Explorers and announce winners of our Overland Expo "Best of Show" vehicles (including on-site campers).

We'll have a fantastic program and happy hour Saturday night - that's currently scheduled for Tom Collins.

See you there!

[Rexsname]

Rather than clutter up this thread with my little plans I'll start a new thread to talk about how excited I am about this cool event.


REX

[jcbrandon]

...announce winners of our Overland Expo "Best of Show" vehicles (including on-site campers)...

Roseann-
Tell us more, please. What have you got in mind? Are you thinking about vehicle modifications or camp set ups?

Either way, it's gonna be fun.

[1leglance]

For the "best of show" I would like to see a variety of awards...
Best Vehicle Stock/Custom
Best Camp setup (this could break down into standard, glamper/lux, classic kit, modern)
Worst over gvw (just cuz I know I have that one locked up)
and maybe a few other things...
the variety in the overlanding world is huge and we should show that aspect off.
And what I wouldn't give for camp cooking competition or something like at the Trophy,,,there was some amazing stuff there.

[xcmountain80]

Can I just buy the T-Shirt?


Aaron

[jcbrandon]

...And what I wouldn't give for a camp cooking competition or something ...

Bring it on, Mr. Blair!

[DesertRose]

Roseann-
Tell us more, please. What have you got in mind? Are you thinking about vehicle modifications or camp set ups?

Either way, it's gonna be fun.

Hmmm - I'm open to several. I think Best Camp and Best Vehicle, maybe different classes of vehicle, too, although I think a special one for Lance: Most Stuff on An FJCruiser Possible.:sombrero:

In a short while I'll be introducing a forum location - probably on the OVEXP.com website - for planning like this. Or maybe we'll see about one here on the Portal. Not sure.

[DesertRose]

For the "best of show" I would like to see a variety of awards...
Best Vehicle Stock/Custom
Best Camp setup (this could break down into standard, glamper/lux, classic kit, modern)
Worst over gvw (just cuz I know I have that one locked up)
and maybe a few other things...
the variety in the overlanding world is huge and we should show that aspect off.
And what I wouldn't give for camp cooking competition or something like at the Trophy,,,there was some amazing stuff there.

I just saw this one - Ha!

[1leglance]

You know it would be really interesting to have each person stop by a truck stop and roll over the scales (or a landscape rock seller) just so we could have actual numbers as part of our discussions.
I am willing to be I won't be the only one over GVW..just maybe the most over :)

[xcmountain80]

Can I just buy the T-Shirt?


Aaron

Want a t-shirt will there be any for purchase outside of the event other wise I guess I'll just run around naked.


Aaron

[xcmountain80]

You know it would be really interesting to have each person stop by a truck stop and roll over the scales (or a landscape rock seller) just so we could have actual numbers as part of our discussions.
I am willing to be I won't be the only one over GVW..just maybe the most over :)

Thats a great idea,,, really .

Aaron

[serialNSXer]

We'll have a fantastic program and happy hour Saturday night - that's currently scheduled for Tom Collins.

See you there!My wife and I drove with Tom Collins at the Land Rover event in Miami. TC helped us learn to put a Range Rover through its spaces -- with that kind of driving -- I don't think we want to mention happy-hour and Tom Collins in the same sentence :-)

[tdesanto]

...And what I wouldn't give for camp cooking competition or something like at the Trophy...


:peepwall:

[1leglance]

:peepwall:

Yeah buddy...it is all your fault since I camped next to you for the last 2 Trophy events....
I still reflect on your cooking skills, just amazing..
You are welcome to anything in my humidor anytime as long as I can pull up a camp chair to your kitchen my friend :ylsmoke:

Maybe a Friday night thing? I need to look at the planned schedule again since I am pretty sure Sat & Sun nights are booked with Overland Expo events.

I will say that those of you remote camping should put on some kind of roving happy hour/pot luck thing as that was a great part of the Trophy.
Same for those in the on-site campground but not attending the offical evening events.
Or Friday night if there is nothing else going on...
Can you tell I have food on my mind..wonder what my wife is planning for dinner tonight :)

[tdesanto]

You are welcome to anything in my humidor anytime as long as I can pull up a camp chair to your kitchen my friend :ylsmoke:


Sounds like a plan; Lance, you're always welcome. :chef:

[Jonathan Hanson]

Lance told me he'd give his left leg to be able to cook like you, Tony.

[tdesanto]

Lance told me he'd give his left leg to be able to cook like you, Tony.

Wow, that's a mighty steep price to pay. :sombrero:

[1leglance]

Lance told me he'd give his left leg to be able to cook like you, Tony.

That is funny since I went for my first fitting today for my "new" left leg....
So I can make a great deal on a "slightly used" lower left leg...
carbon fiber competition model Expo Trophy winner
low miles mostly hiway with some offroad
custom touches
test walks aval on request
shipping aval
ok I am laughing too much to keep typing :)

[DesertRose]

So I can make a great deal on a "slightly used" lower left leg...
carbon fiber competition model Expo Trophy winner
low miles mostly hiway with some offroad
custom touches
test walks aval on request
shipping aval
ok I am laughing too much to keep typing :)

Hey - full disclosure here! Didn't I see you use your leg as a sand ladder?

[goodtimes]

Hey - full disclosure here! Didn't I see you use your leg as a sand ladder?


:xxrotflma

[1leglance]

Hey - full disclosure here! Didn't I see you use your leg as a sand ladder?

You're right...it is worth more since the ad should now read..
self recovery capable
mutli-use tested in emergency situations

[spressomon]

Just curious: Will there be "generator rules" in the RV camp area? Leashed and kept after dogs allowed?

[DesertRose]

Just curious: Will there be "generator rules" in the RV camp area? Leashed and kept after dogs allowed?

Good questions! We'll be covering more things like this in the registrant information.

Dogs: welcome, on leash (but they aren't allowed in the buildings, unless Handidogs).

Generators: no, sorry. There is an RV park with hookups nearby.

Thanks for asking!

[teotwaki]

That is funny since I went for my first fitting today for my "new" left leg....
So I can make a great deal on a "slightly used" lower left leg...
carbon fiber competition model Expo Trophy winner
low miles mostly hiway with some offroad
custom touches
test walks aval on request
shipping aval
ok I am laughing too much to keep typing :)

If you put that in the For Sale area I'm not sure what section! Forum rules require a price too :ylsmoke: Wait, get a Pelican case with custom foam and carry it as a Trail Spare as listed in the LDEG (Leg Dependent Expedition Guide). :elkgrin:

[jcbrandon]

Good questions! We'll be covering more things like this in the registrant information...

One more:

Campfires?

[DesertRose]

We might be able to have a small group fire or two but let me check first - don't want the fire marshals to show up!

[1leglance]

I have a propane powered fire pit, please find out if that would be allowed vs wood.
thanks

[Blackeye]

We've got a Pit-2-Go http://www.pit2go.com/ which is a self-contained fire box. It is legal to use where ground fires are prohibited. We were hoping to bring and use it. It leaves no trace.

I'd like to know if it would be acceptable.

[DesertRose]

We've got a Pit-2-Go http://www.pit2go.com/ which is a self-contained fire box. It is legal to use where ground fires are prohibited. We were hoping to bring and use it. It leaves no trace.

I'd like to know if it would be acceptable.

I'm checking it out now - stay tuned!

[Rexsname]

Will the exhibitors also be vendors? That is, will there be folks bringing cool stuff to sell there on-site?

REX

[Jonathan Hanson]

You bet they will be!

[Rexsname]

Would any vendors care to provide any hints as to what we might expect to peruse? Perhaps in the $50 to $100 range???



REX

[xcmountain80]

So are there any shirts for this event I'll need to buy 2 as I won't be able to make it.MY wife's b-day falls on the same date and her idea of a celebration is not a expo expo. Huh poor me.

Aaron

[hikingff77]

Is this group going to be anywhere near Eastern PA in their travels? I'd love to see some of these rigs in person.

[Blackeye]

Would any vendors care to provide any hints as to what we might expect to peruse? Perhaps in the $50 to $100 range???


I was down at Expedition Exchange http://www.expeditionexchange.com/ yesterday and they indicated that they will be bringing a ton of gear to be made available for purchase. They have great stuff!

[PJPR01]

New member here - longtime reader of Expo Portal and subscriber to OJ since issue 1. Anyway, I'm really looking forward to the OJ Expo in April and am pleased to say that we may have at least 2 if not more members of the Houston Land Rover club coming along as well.

[nwoods]

If we go we'll be doing the day pass thing. There's no way we can commit to anything that far out right now... and with the economy the way it is.. we'll have to pass on the whole package for now too.

I'm in the same boat. I think we are going to make it out there, but can't swing the full deal this year. I'm looking forward to the displays and meeting the people though. Should be an awesome event.

For those that are day pass only, we could easily have our own evening event on Saturday night. I haven't looked into the camping situation yet, but I assume there is a place where we can all camp and mingle around a campfire?

[Rexsname]

YES!! This is exactly what I have been hoping would happen. My 'secret spot' is not at all far from the Fairgrounds and I can't wait to meet up with my "e-friends" from ExPo.



REX

[JPFreek1]

We might be able to have a small group fire or two but let me check first - don't want the fire marshals to show up!

Roseann, how come I haven't heard from you since our last email exchange?

[DesertRose]

Roseann, how come I haven't heard from you since our last email exchange?

Hi Frank! I've been sending you notes and invitations, maybe you changed your email address? I'll keep trying!

[jcbrandon]

Roseann-

What's the latest? Lance and I are trying to plan a whiskey-and-cigar gathering, but we don't know what to plan around :-)

(Note to self: PM Lance before making public statements regarding whiskey and cigars. Especially important before beginning whiskey and cigar evening at home with snow on ground.)

[DesertRose]

We've got the schedule almost done and a registrants update is going out this weekend.

I didn't read the part about XXXX and cigars, though. Nope. Didn't read it. (Liquor licensing at the fairgrounds means whatever you guys do at your camps is unknown to the legally responsible organizer . . . )
:beer:

Meanwhile check out the updates on the website www.ovexpo.com and the exhibitor list -- it's going to be the Who's Who and What's Hot expo of the year for us overlanders! More exhibitors pending.

I also didn't raise the rates yet because last weekend I had the settings wrong on the server and instead of clicking up the rates 10% it shut down registration, so I'm giving people some extra time - before I do the evil deed!





Roseann-

What's the latest? Lance and I are trying to plan a XXXX-and-cigar gathering, but we don't know what to plan around :-)

(Note to self: PM Lance before making public statements regarding XXXXX and cigars. Especially important before beginning XXXX and cigar evening at home with snow on ground.)

[Ear Whiskers]

.

[jcbrandon]

...I didn't read the part about XXXX and cigars, though. Nope. Didn't read it. (Liquor licensing at the fairgrounds means whatever you guys do at your camps is unknown to the legally responsible organizer . . . )
...

Darn that spellcheck. I'm pretty sure I typed "milk and cookies."

[DesertRose]

I'm THIS close to registering, and selecting the Overland Experience package. A couple of questions first though...

Since it would be myself and my almost 12 year-old son attending, I would select the Overland Experience single package with no charge for my son, correct?

Also, I read that children will not be allowed to go to any of the classes but daycare will be provided. So, basically, my son will only be allowed to attend the Family Overlanding seminar and not any of the field classes or other seminars?

p.s. this is my first post!

Hi there,

Welcome to the Portal!

Your son would be free, yes, so you just register for the Single Package. And at 12, I think he could come to most of the classes except, for safety reasons, the driving ones and recovery / technical ones. He'd be welcome to be in the seminars and talks. My main concern for all kids under 15 is safety in the driving area; and for younger kids, the concern is that they disrupt the classes.

Feel free to call if you have any more questions - the contact information is on the OvExpo site.

Thanks and I hope you both come - there are numerous other families coming, and so it should be great fun.

[kb7our]

Not sure if this is even something that could work or if people are interested but I'll bring it up just to see what kind of response unfolds. Hope I didn't miss a similar question and response already within this thread.

With so many Expo participants gathering at this single event it seems likely that some may have smaller items they want to sell/swap or purchase related to the overall theme of the event and could therefore bring with them on the trip (i.e. fuel cans, load bars, camping gear, GPS, laptop, etc.). This seems like an excellent opportunity for an Expo participant's garage sale of sorts if there is any time in the calendar to accomodate such an event. Just something to consider - maybe it's just not possible or too crazy an idea but then again maybe it could fill a need.

Wade

[DesertRose]

One more:

Campfires?

We can have campfires if we use raised/portable fire pits / containment.

I'll bring our Snow Peak folding bbq pit.

[DesertRose]

With so many Expo participants gathering at this single event it seems likely that some may have smaller items they want to sell/swap or purchase related to the overall theme of the event and could therefore bring with them on the trip (i.e. fuel cans, load bars, camping gear, GPS, laptop, etc.).

I'm afraid we won't be organizing a swap meet at the event - it's already so packed with activities and wonderful exhibitors - 45 and counting! - that people won't have any extra time at all, I guarantee you (I've seen the schedules they are turning in - some won't even be sleeping, apparently).

So much to do, so little time, I know.

[cowboy4x4]

Does anybody know if any of the vendors that will be here will be carrying the PIT2GO portable fire pit ? I would like to purchase one and will wait for the Expo if someone is going to be selling them....... Thomas

[roamingaz]

Not sure if this is even something that could work or if people are interested but I'll bring it up just to see what kind of response unfolds. Hope I didn't miss a similar question and response already within this thread.

With so many Expo participants gathering at this single event it seems likely that some may have smaller items they want to sell/swap or purchase related to the overall theme of the event and could therefore bring with them on the trip (i.e. fuel cans, load bars, camping gear, GPS, laptop, etc.). This seems like an excellent opportunity for an Expo participant's garage sale of sorts if there is any time in the calendar to accomodate such an event. Just something to consider - maybe it's just not possible or too crazy an idea but then again maybe it could fill a need.

Wade


I was thinking the same thing, I know we all have misc. stuff that we dont use and what better place to gear swap!

[Rexsname]

I will have a couple of items for sale with me. I wouldn't mind seeing what others have to sell/trade.....


REX

[DesertRose]

I was thinking the same thing, I know we all have misc. stuff that we dont use and what better place to gear swap!

Hi guys - there won't be a swap meet at the Overland Expo - it's just not set up that way, I'm afraid - but I'm sure you could arrange something at your own camps. That would be fun.

[DesertRose]

Does anybody know if any of the vendors that will be here will be carrying the PIT2GO portable fire pit ? I would like to purchase one and will wait for the Expo if someone is going to be selling them....... Thomas

Hopefully some of the vendors will see this and respond!

[WFTW]

I'm camping just outside Amarillo, TX tonight and will be in Arizona tomorrow (not sure exactly where I'll stay tomorrow night yet...depends on how much driving I feel like doing).

Anyhow, I'm looking forward to getting the chance to meet with everyone and to showcase the WFTW Jeep and trailer as well as spread the word about the WFTW program.

Safe travels for all who are attending and I'll see you there!
Jason

[Tat]

Hi Roseann and fellow Overlanders,

We will be bringing some of our parts to drool over and purchase.

We will have a few (OV EXPO 2009) specials on hand, such as new Nato cans. Limited to supplies on hand.

Please stop by and see what's new and check out the quality of products we have to offer you.

We're looking forward to meeting each and every one of you in person.