Sheepiepalooza Exit Survey
As indicated earlier, we do not have enough self starters in the club locally to continue this event as is. Val and I have come up with the following ideas to make it more enjoyable for everyone. 1) We would extend the whole thing from Thursday through Sunday to allow more time for performance events. Sample schedule: Agility trial on Thursday morning, Rally trial on Thursday evening, Sheep herding on Friday morning, Friday night forum party with oral auction, sights of St. Louis on Saturday (including boathouse), Sunday picnic with raffle plus chances to try some basic agility, basic rally, learn more about grooming, and how to get more involved in performance - this would be the most laid back day with lots of playtime, shopping and socializing. People can come in to watch the agility, rally and sheep herding if they would like but can also start their weekend with Friday night if that works better. 2) We would hire an event planner to handle the process of registration (by the way it is important to meet deadlines and proper payment to ensure that we are not bogged down in this instead of planning a nice event), catering, hospitality, shirts, etc. This would free us up to spend time with you. As a result the cost could go up on each day by a marginal amount to cover the cost of the event coordinator. We are way cheaper than attending Nationals for example or a performance trial so I think we can keep it in line with that. 3) Lastly, if the above does not work we are considering making this at least an every three year event (we would need that much time to recuperate) to avoid the burnout. Though we would miss seeing everyone. |
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I think its a great idea - I actually mentioned to someone else I didn't think I could come back unless things were more spread out - its just too much after a long drive and not only my dogs are tired out 
I loved the rally on a different day from agility this year - even if I ended up using the same dog for both  Add in an option for a dog sitting service and a people only event for socializing and you have a sold customer! |
| My suggestion isn't really too much, but may help those who are wanting to visit more at the Hotel.
I liked this hotel and the staff were very friendly. They seemed to like all the OES running around - hope they want us back!! We did end up on all 3 floors. Maybe we could have all been together? I have never worked at a hotel, so I don't know if that is feasible or a big headache for them. Also, on the same thread, could we make a list of who is in what room? I know the hotel can't, d/t privacy laws. But could we have a sign-up sheet near where we get the fabulous welcome bags? Then those who wanted to could write down their name/dog's name and room number. Somone could make copies Friday eve or Saturday morning and they could be handed back out to everyone participating. Or, as our basset rescue does for our annual get together - the people staying at the motel (we camp) make signs/collages and put them on their motel room door. It has evolved into quite the competition for creativity and it gets people out wandering the halls to check out the doors each year! I would love to add herding - Purina Farms has the sheep right there....... |
| I was thinking about this on my drive home, too, Judi. I was trying to decide which things you could easily do remotely. Having been an event planner for years, I know there are some things that have to be done on location, but a lot of it could be handled remotely and free you & other club members up for more relaxed fun and socializing during the actual event. Of course, I realize, too, that this costs money and you've done a great job at keeping this event very affordable. But, I am convinced it can be balanced. As fun as it is, burn out is inevitable if you keep up this pace.
I think the idea of spreading the performance events out is a good one. I also like Kerry's idea of hiring a pet sitting service for an evening of social activities without the dogs. BTW, I think the hotel this year was great. I've got a few other ideas, too, that I'll put in a PM to you for your consideration. I'm happy to help, too, as needed for future events. |
got sheep wrote: Or, as our basset rescue does for our annual get together - the people staying at the motel (we camp) make signs/collages and put them on their motel room door. It has evolved into quite the competition for creativity and it gets people out wandering the halls to check out the doors each year!
. That seems like the best idea - adds to the fun and could be quite creative as long as the hotel doesn't have a problem with it. I will keep in mind the note about one floor - that seems like the best idea- especially if we book them now for next year. Thanks for the hotel feedback. |
while we are talking about the hotel - (my non smoking room was obvouslly nonsmoking this weekend only room  ) Not at all your fault!!! could you offer a couple of hotels in different proce ranges? especially if you are going to spread the events out people might want to do some of the other things in St Louis - that you probably even don't notice - while they are there and stay a few more days.
if you could offer two hotels at different price ranges with some break (like no huge dog fee for the homewood suites  ) people could make some personal choices - I would love a hotel with an indoor pool for my own reasons but I recognize that isn't important to some others. I just balk at paying a dog fee for a dog that will do less damage and is quieter than alot of kids  |
| We have always had a list of other hotels available BUT the likelihood of getting a good rate at several hotels is just not feasible. We are trying to lesson our load - not increase it. |
Beaureguard's Mom wrote: I also like Kerry's idea of hiring a pet sitting service for an evening of social activities without the dogs. We can get you a list of doggie day care or kennels - but at this time we are not looking to offer a pet free evening. The purpose of this weekend is to bring the pets. So if you want to enjoy an evening without the pets than you can look into one of the doggie kennels - usually that requires checking them in before 6:00 and not being able to pick them up until after 8:00 the next day. That would be a personal choice. Individual pet sitting services are minimal around here and quite expensive. Without intention to offend we are looking to lessen our work load not increase it. Beaureguard's Mom wrote: I've got a few other ideas, too, that I'll put in a PM to you for your consideration. I'm happy to help, too, as needed for future events.
I appreciate the offer to help. There are actually jobs that can be done from a distance. This is the case often with a trial secretary for an agility trial or rally trial. |
Quote: 1) We would extend the whole thing from Thursday through Sunday to allow more time for performance events. Sample schedule: Agility trial on Thursday morning, Rally trial on Thursday evening, Sheep herding on Friday morning, Friday night forum party with oral auction, sights of St. Louis on Saturday (including boathouse), Sunday picnic with raffle plus chances to try some basic agility, basic rally, learn more about grooming, and how to get more involved in performance - this would be the most laid back day with lots of playtime, shopping and socializing.
People can come in to watch the agility, rally and sheep herding if they would like but can also start their weekend with Friday night if that works better. 2) We would hire an event planner to handle the process of registration (by the way it is important to meet deadlines and proper payment to ensure that we are not bogged down in this instead of planning a nice event), catering, hospitality, shirts, etc. This would free us up to spend time with you. As a result the cost could go up on each day by a marginal amount to cover the cost of the event coordinator. We are way cheaper than attending Nationals for example or a performance trial so I think we can keep it in line with that. Being the Cochair this year, I was able to experience first hand what a huge project this is!!!! I cannot....CANNOT imagine how Judi has done this for the past 3 years!!! I can tell you that I was able to HELP her with a very small portion of the planning. The details are many and time consuming, just the graphics are a pain due to road improvements and detours, AND, in addition, this year, Judi took on the whole performance venues!!! I am addressing only 2 areas of details...add in the shirts, food, beverages, awards, raffle//auction items, motel correspondance, Purina reservations, Friday details, Boathouse reservations....I COULD go on and on......and at this point, seeing how Sheepiepalooza has grown, year after year..it is humanly impossible for 1 or 2 or even 3 people to get the job done~~~~~especially to the level that Judi has set!!!! BUT..... I would like to get a concensus on the two questions of Judi's original post..... WOULD you attend a 4 day Sheepiepalooza!!! From start to finish???? WOULD you be willing to spend more for fees to attend???? |
| Val-
We would be willing to attend a 4 day event and stay from start to finish. Yes we would be willing to pay a higher fee for this event! And having planned and executed events for 21 years--I would be willing to help with any 'remote' projects that you might be able to delegate. |
SheepieMommy wrote: Beaureguard's Mom wrote: I also like Kerry's idea of hiring a pet sitting service for an evening of social activities without the dogs. We can get you a list of doggie day care or kennels - but at this time we are not looking to offer a pet free evening. The purpose of this weekend is to bring the pets. So if you want to enjoy an evening without the pets than you can look into one of the doggie kennels - usually that requires checking them in before 6:00 and not being able to pick them up until after 8:00 the next day. That would be a personal choice. Individual pet sitting services are minimal around here and quite expensive. Without intention to offend we are looking to lessen our work load not increase it. No offense taken. I agree, you need to lessen your work load. 
My thought, actually, was that maybe one of the rescue groups for which you are raising money might want to offer the service at the hotel as a fund raiser. Since the hotel only allows us to leave the dogs for 30 minutes, it's hard to go to a sit-down dinner and be back within that time frame. And bearing in mind that the dogs need some down time too, if they wanted to offer that service for a fee, we could use that time to eat dinner while the pups got some rest. Just a thought to consider... |
sheepieshake wrote: BUT.....
I would like to get a concensus on the two questions of Judi's original post..... WOULD you attend a 4 day Sheepiepalooza!!! From start to finish???? WOULD you be willing to spend more for fees to attend???? Yes! and Yes! I'd be happy to come out early and help wherever necessary. A lot of things (like organizing the live auction items, as an example) could be done on Thursday by someone not involved with a performance event. As mentioned earlier, there are several jobs that can be performed off-site throughout the year. The accommodations this year were wonderful! We were centrally located to the events, had plenty of grass for the dogs to walk in and were within walking distance of several restaurants. The rooms were clean and reasonably priced and people really enjoyed seeing the dogs. Anyone not happy with the hotel should camp or find a place on their own.
One of the best things about the event was how dog-friendly everything is in St. Louis. Being able to take the dogs everywhere is a huge bonus for us. We hate leaving the dogs alone in the room and if we really needed to find a dogsitter for the evening, I'm sure we could have conned a trusted dog-less person to help out. That should not be the responsibility of the organizers. The only thing we had a problem with was that the map provided argued with the GPS but we managed to find everything.  |
| I was definitly looking for a fee service that was trustworthy - like pet sitters that are bonded and can sit in the hotel and only ensure that the dogs don't get taken, bark or annoy others. An event planner should be able to pull that kind of list together, which is why I mentioned it in the context of the event planner. People can contract directly with the sitters. I agree with Tammy - the dogs need down time and an adult dinner out without the kids might appeal to some.
Definitly not implying you guys should do anymore than you are already - just bringing up ideas of issues that affect those of us who travel to support your event - if you aren't interested than you aren't interested. |
| i think the cost to attend Sheepie Palooza is ridiculously low. I'd pay more to come with my girls, especially if it means that the money could go towards hiring some help to make it all go more smoothly.
Is there any way we out-of-towners could help? I help run a couple of art auctions every year; I'd gladly offer to help with the aural and silent auctions. I might not attend a longer Sheepie Palooza. By day 3, my girls are pretty burned out. But maybe as they get older, they will be less freaked out. |
| Can you remind me of what the costs were to attend? |
| $10 for Friday night catered meal including alcoholic beverages if desired.
$5 for Saturday participation (covers park rental and incidentals) Boat rental is extra but we are given a discounted rate. All meals are out of pocket. $15 for Sunday catered barbecue. T-shirts are $10 each. All proceeds (about 70% of cost) from sale of towels and bandanas go to OES Health & Research. 100% of money raised through auctions and raffle go to OES Rescue. |
| Just so everyone knows for next year....the food was terrific and plentiful...they could double the price and I don't think anyone would complain. The staff at the paddleboats were so great with the crowds and the dogs. They even made sure all the dogs had water to drink. As for the T-shirts...what a bargain. Sydney is still wearing her bandanna. Oakley had his on for five minutes this morning when Sydney decided he shouldn't be wearing it! I'll have to buy him a new one next year! |
| was there food on Friday night? All I can recall was the yummy adult beverages! *hic!* |
| 1. I would pay more to attend
2. I would not attend 4 days The entire event was fantastic - Patch and I thoroughly enjoyed it from the hotel to the de Mayo to the paddleboat, parade, agility, CGC, meeting new friends at lunch and dinner, etc etc. The prices were low - paying more would not be an issue at all. Hiring a coordinator is a good idea. I have also chaired statewide conferences in Kentucky, and it is hard work. However, i do agree with the one who suggested a pet sitter - Patch was so hot I thought she was going to faint - I would have left her Saturday night somewhere in the a/c just to cool her off and joined new friends for dinner. If anything, money could be made for the St Louis OES club for rescue or medical research from the petsitting service. I am not suggesting placing more on your plate, but am merely answering your survey. |
| I was there babysitting Kristine's dogs, and Val's. Since I was dogless I was more than happy to help and have some sheepie time. I do think you could make it 4 days and breaking it up during the day is a good idea too. It would give the dogs a break from the heat too. |
| This is the first of these type of events I have attended. I'm stating right here and now that I felt like my mindset was completely different from most of the people there. Lots of older adults, very few kids. I would have guessed the opposite.
I was considering going the other way. I was thinking it should be a 1 day event. We didn't do any of the events, so we sat in our chairs most of the day, each day. I couldn't imagine a 4 day event. I think the costs were reasonable, so there may not need much changed there. Again, I'm the minority. If you decide not to do this event next year, I may take it upon myself to plan a different style of event. |
Chad McCan wrote: This is the first of these type of events I have attended. I'm stating right here and now that I felt like my mindset was completely different from most of the people there. Lots of older adults, very few kids. I would have guessed the opposite.
I was considering going the other way. I was thinking it should be a 1 day event. We didn't do any of the events, so we sat in our chairs most of the day, each day. I couldn't imagine a 4 day event. I think the costs were reasonable, so there may not need much changed there. Again, I'm the minority. If you decide not to do this event next year, I may take it upon myself to plan a different style of event.
Oh my gosh. I feel so bad that you and your family didn't enjoy yourselves. You didn't say a word to me when you left your dogs at my house on Monday for me to watch them while you took your daughter to the Magic House. I feel really badly and it didn't occur to me about the age of the adults in attendance. There were some others with kids there and I hope they didn't have a bad time as well. We try hard to help everyone have a good time while raising some money for OES Rescue. Thanks for your input and please accept my apologies on behalf of our club. |
| I must have phrased my reply wrong. We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. Everyone was very nice and accommodating. It was truly a great 3 days (we stayed until Monday afternoon). My daughter wants to come back for sure.
It was just greatly different than what we expected. not better or worse, just different. We had been to the Purina Farms last year, just as a random stop on a trip to STL. It was really fun. Libby got to milk a cow, pet horses, see all kinds of other animals. They had crazy cody put on a demo if catching frisbees. So we went in thinking we would be at the front entrance of the farm and she would be able to do those things again. Again, we aren't into the rally and agility stuff, so I am in the minority and a very small piece of that crowd. Take it with a grain of salt... Overall, everybody had a good time at the event, the weather cooperated, it was well organized and wasn't too expensive. I'm sure it's incredible amount of work. Not to mention, our rescue was a major benefactor! We can't thank you enough. PS. If you do it again next year, I want to help. I can make the registration process web based and allow people to see the status of their registration at all times. That might take some weight off your shoulders. |
Chad McCan wrote: This is the first of these type of events I have attended. I'm stating right here and now that I felt like my mindset was completely different from most of the people there. Lots of older adults, very few kids. I would have guessed the opposite.
Hi, Chad. That's really interesting. With all the chatter that goes into this event, ahead of time, during, after, pictures, more pictures (did I mention pictures?  ), even though I didn't go the first year I felt I had a very good idea what to expect when I attended last year for the first time. And, in fact, it far exceeded my expectations. Actually, it did that again this year. But, yes, you have to have some interest in doing things with your dogs. It is a social event, but one where the dogs are involved every step of the way. There's so much going on ...I'm surprised your dogs let you sit around in your chair all day.  Mine were dragging me all over the place.
If you were expecting a more child oriented as opposed to heavily sheepdog focused event and you think there's an interest in that, then I think it would be a great idea if you did indeed organize something along those lines! Throw the idea out there on the forum and perhaps a few likeminded people can brain storm. That's often how these kind of events come together. You have to remember, though, that for some of us, our dogs are our "kids". Which may help explain why we spend so much time coming up with games, taking them to parks and building odd looking playground equipment we can play on with them
Kristine |
| Yep, my dog is a family pet. He's got it pretty good, but he's not my kid I got to meet several people who have helped, will help or are helping with the rescue. The networking of this event alone was worth the price.
The only thing I have been to that is similar was Paws in the Park, which the Humane Society puts on, so I didn't have much to go on. |
| To quote Chad McCan:
We didn't do any of the events, so we sat in our chairs most of the day, each day. I couldn't imagine a 4 day event. Visiting with others has been noted to be a desired part of this event. Past feedback verifies this. With the large attendance, both in dogs and humans, and the variety of social events in addition to the performance opportunities to try with your dogs, I find it hard to believe you found yourselves sitting for hours on end. Most chose to sit, rest and visit with others in the times that weren't structured times. Chad: The networking of this event alone was worth the price. As you stated, the rescue you volunteer with was worth networking while at this event. The beneficiary of the rescue monies this year was the same rescue you work with. Talking with others about your state's rescue didn't even get you out of your chair? Most of the individuals drive/fly long distances to come, and many only see each other in person a few times a year. A one day event wouldn't be worth the time for most. We would spend more time travelling than actually being there. |
| We sat in our chairs too!!! BUT it was only to watch all the sheepies play!!! There was times we actually looked at each other and commented that we couldn't believe how many sheepdogs were there at the same time and they all got along and played with each beautifully. As someone that drove over 13 hours (along with a son that flew in from Brazil via Panama) we loved chatting with other sheepie owners....made us feel like we might not be that crazy after all! |
Chad McCan wrote: This is the first of these type of events I have attended. I'm stating right here and now that I felt like my mindset was completely different from most of the people there. Lots of older adults, very few kids. I would have guessed the opposite.
I was considering going the other way. I was thinking it should be a 1 day event. We didn't do any of the events, so we sat in our chairs most of the day, each day. I couldn't imagine a 4 day event. I think the costs were reasonable, so there may not need much changed there. Again, I'm the minority. If you decide not to do this event next year, I may take it upon myself to plan a different style of event. We've attended each year and find the event keeps getting better. Yep, you're in the minority; most people with OES do not have young children. Just a peek at pictures of previous year's Sheepiepalooza would tell you it's not a kid's event. It's all about the dogs. We chose not to do performance events this year and spent a fair amount of time sitting around but actually enjoyed the chance to relax and visit with old friends and meet new ones. When there are dogs involved, there's always something to talk about.
As far as shortening the event to one day, how many people would drive hours and hours to attend a shorter event? If you were so miserable, why didn't you get off your butt, find a kennel for your dogs and do things with your family? The St. Louis OES Club did ask for suggestions but your ungrateful, ungracious comments for all their hard work is a real slap in the face. Don't be expecting too many Sheepiepalooza fans to attend an event that you organize. You really should be ashamed of yourself when your rescue was the benefactor of the event. The last straw was seeing Judi have to apologize to YOU because you didn't have fun. |
Quote: As far as shortening the event to one day, how many people would drive hours and hours to attend a shorter event? If you were so miserable, why didn't you get off your butt, find a kennel for your dogs and do things with your family?
The St. Louis OES Club did ask for suggestions but your ungrateful, ungracious comments for all their hard work is a real slap in the face. Don't be expecting too many Sheepiepalooza fans to attend an event that you organize. You really should be ashamed of yourself when your rescue was the benefactor of the event. The last straw was seeing Judi have to apologize to YOU because you didn't have fun. I saw how much much stress it was on Val and Judy to make sure all needs were met. I agree with Nita. The organizers were so busy they didn't get any time to socialize. I had a blast and I didn't even have my dogs with me. |
Maggie McGee IV wrote: Chad McCan wrote: This is the first of these type of events I have attended. I'm stating right here and now that I felt like my mindset was completely different from most of the people there. Lots of older adults, very few kids. I would have guessed the opposite. I was considering going the other way. I was thinking it should be a 1 day event. We didn't do any of the events, so we sat in our chairs most of the day, each day. I couldn't imagine a 4 day event. I think the costs were reasonable, so there may not need much changed there. Again, I'm the minority. If you decide not to do this event next year, I may take it upon myself to plan a different style of event. We've attended each year and find the event keeps getting better. Yep, you're in the minority; most people with OES do not have young children. Just a peek at pictures of previous year's Sheepiepalooza would tell you it's not a kid's event. It's all about the dogs. We chose not to do performance events this year and spent a fair amount of time sitting around but actually enjoyed the chance to relax and visit with old friends and meet new ones. When there are dogs involved, there's always something to talk about. As far as shortening the event to one day, how many people would drive hours and hours to attend a shorter event? If you were so miserable, why didn't you get off your butt, find a kennel for your dogs and do things with your family? The St. Louis OES Club did ask for suggestions but your ungrateful, ungracious comments for all their hard work is a real slap in the face. Don't be expecting too many Sheepiepalooza fans to attend an event that you organize. You really should be ashamed of yourself when your rescue was the benefactor of the event. The last straw was seeing Judi have to apologize to YOU because you didn't have fun. Nita - Well stated. Thank you. |
| Chad....
The only thing I can add to the previous posts is........... Since I am the Sheepiepalooza 2009 CoChair, and I saw your 2 posts about dog sitting, to be honest, I was way too exhausted to respond to your request. Judi...being, well, Judi, did respond and although I know for a fact that she was very exhausted from 3 days of running this wonderful event, offered to watch your dog. From--- what was it??? 9:30 to about 12:30???? When you arrived to pick him/her up~~~~~~~ I find it appalling that you never once offered to give a donation to YOUR rescue for JUDI'S services..... Kinda of amazing ..............((( and, IMO you are in the minority...of 1)) Forum....can I please have my cup of tea now????????? |
| When Adam and I brought Tonks and Luna to Sheepie Palooza last year, it was our first time attending and we did not know what to expect. Our girls were young still, only 7 months old, and not very far along in their training. We didn't really know anyone, and didn't socialize too much. Plus, my girls were having weird fighting issues, and I was very tense that they would get themselves (and me) into trouble.
So Adam and I brought a couple of friends along, and we four mostly sat in our chairs for all three days and socialized among ourselves. I know it must have seemed anti-social, but our friends had been a really big help with the girls, and it just made sense to us to bring them along. And having been a part of our Sheepie family; they wanted to come. That being said? We still had an AMAZING time. We did try sub-novice Agility last year; which led me to take the girls through a couple of Agility classes when they were old enough. And this year we got to see the results in the Pre-Novice Agility ring. I don't think there's any reason to apologize for Sheepie Palooza not being as enjoyable to some as it is to others. The fact is; its a dog-centric weekend for dog-centric people. Not everyone's idea of a great time; and thats okay. But for quite a few of us, its a heavenly way to spend 3 days. This is an exit poll; no need to apologize when people express their opinions; just take the info and lump it in with the rest of the responses. Some people will say "Yes Please!" to four days; some will say "Keep it at three" and then others will say "cut it down to one". Don't be upset or offended; just make a note and at the end of it all weigh your options and do what you think will be best for Sheepie Palooza. I think there are quite a few of us that know you'll do the best you are able to, and then probably do a bit more. And then Judi will do even more.
Counting the days to Sheepie Palooza 4!!!! |
| Allison...you are brilliant!!!!
Quote: its a dog-centric weekend for dog-centric people.
you hit the nail on the head....THAT is what Sheepiepalooza is ALL about!!!!! 
In the midst of having fun, we try to introduce different things to do with your puppers (( agility, rally. obedience)) and give at least one informative demo (((Nita, Nelson and the great grooming demo!!!))~~~ FOR ME............. The weekend flew by since I was in heaven just being with all the sheepies and their families...getting to see you and Adam~~ seeing how Tonks and Luna have grown..talking to all my forum friends and getting some GREAT sheepie kisses in the process!!!!!! On Monday...I was missing EVERYONE!!!!  |
I am not even sure where to start! Nita..you said it well! If you don't like it get off of your butt and do something you want! Judi, Val and the whole St Louis team put on an awesome event! I hope to attend next year!! I will help in any way that I can to take the load off of the volunteers! Yes, volunteers.....very time consuming and all just to get sheepie folks together and raise money for rescue! (there is a reward in that) Did I say volunteers????? 
I love bonding with the oes community but, when it comes down to it I love my dogs! Our time is spent with the dogs because, that is what we enjoy! I have actually only been to one OES picnic in New England and I took 3 of my dogs. My human son spent half of the trip with me and he enjoyed having the furries with us! We did doggie stuff...that is what we do! (Can I brag that my son volunteers at the humane society in VA in between studies!) Chad, if you are not interested in rally, obedience, agility maybe you should consider it! You may form a bond you didn't know you could have with your dog! You should try it! Last of all on my rant..... Thank you St Louis OES Club for helping needy dogs! Trust me...there will continue to be dogs in need and we are lucky that so many folks care about our breed! Thanks to all of you that help rescue..... Whole hearted, unconditional! |
| I really didn't see Chad's post as complaining, especially after his follow up clarification that it wasn't bad, just different than expected.
Wasn't the thread a request for feedback? I don't see why someone's honest feelings about the event should receive such a response. I know I certainly don't please every forum member all the time (especially after this post! )
 Please, let's be extra nice to each other today and remember one of the pieces of our
"Cup of Tea Mantra" which is to "read each post as if no insult was intended." |
| ok...I'm sticking my two cents in....
THOUGHTS? The entire SheepiePalooza event is just that, an EVENT!! It's a breath of fresh air as far as I'm concerned. Being that we travel from FL every year to attend this event, I feel that 4 days is perfect for us and perhaps many others....I mean, you have 1 year to mark your calendars !!! Raise the admission fees, tack on another day for the event and have a small bevy of VIP peeps (from the club) running individual events. Split it up into groups and have each person take over 1 individual task or event. For example: So and So takes over the rescue and all things that have to do with raising funds for rescue throughout the weekend. Another person is in charge of Agility, and pan it out that way. If it's broken down into categories it becomes MUCH easier to plan out for those who perhaps have been overwhelmed with many different tasks. I love the doggie door sign for the hotel room doors, the check-in sheet, etc...etc...
Might I suggest something else?? When/IF you raise the admission/registration fees for the entire weekend consider having 1 room at the hotel for everyone to mingle in througout the event (or maybe for the first two nights). The NEOESR picnic has a hospitality room for all OES guests to wander in and out of freely to meet and talk to people. It has some snacks and drinks in it and loads of people do gravitate towards it knowing that's where the OES people can go!! MY TAKE ON THE EVENT ITSELF I have been to many OES events from rescue, to OESCA national specialties and SheepiePalooza is by far the most exciting event we've been to, to date. It touches on EVERYTHING and anything Sheepdog related. Auctions, parade, rally, agility, CGC, rescue auctions, picnic itself, and all genre's of Sheepdogs with their FAMILIES!!! I UNDERSTAND About the coordinating and planning..... It takes me almost 2 months to plan out my merchandising, check inventory, pack, load, and prepare for a trip mentally and physically. Keep in mind, I'm just a vendor at these events. I can't imagine what Judi, Val and other club members go through to plan out SheepiePalooza. GRRRRR I hope some of you forum members forgive me on this one, but from what I've read in previous posts in this thread has left me with my mouth wide open. I can value people's opinions and take it with a grain of salt, but from what I was reading I'm pretty much disgusted. Many people PRIDE THEMSELVES on helping rescue whole heartidly. I must admit, I take offense to what Chad has written on so many levels it's not even funny. It should have been about supporting OES rescue. It should be about the welfare of the dogs you are trying to help, not yourself - I find that disconcerning, disrespectful and outright rude. It makes the real OES rescue supporters, foster people, rescue volunteers and organizations look bad. Being I have helped support OES rescue for many years now, I can't believe what I just read. Horrible - that's my "opinion" [/b] |
I Dream Of Sheepie wrote: It should have been about supporting OES rescue. It should be about the welfare of the dogs you are trying to help
But here's the key, and it made much more sense to me when I read Chad's response (thank you for clarifying, Chad) Sheepiepalooza is NOT a rescue event, it's a Sheepdog event. There are plenty of rescue picnics around the country and they are usually much shorter (one day), and the focus tends to be on eating lunch and raising money. There are maybe a handful of activities - a parade that features rescue dogs, some times some kind of demos, but it is mainly about a group of similiar-minded people eating, talking about rescue and giving money. The dogs themselves are along more as an afterthought. If that's the frame of reference Chad had, and put in that context, Sheepiepalooza with its frenzy of sheepdog related activties and sheepdogs of every kind must seem like Old English Sheepdog boot camp to the unprepared
On the flip side, it's not a "show dog" event. We have plenty of great specialties -- the national generally offers agility, obedience, rally, health seminars, and hopefully herding and a rescue parade in addition to the breed judging, but the primary focus is on show dogs and people who do things with their dogs. Many strictly pet only people find them tedious because there is less emphasis on social events - though it does have several of those as well, the main emphasis is about competition and if you're not into that so much, what do you do with your time and your dog? What is the defining characteristic about Sheepiepalooza? And, Michelina, you touched on this: The event cuts across those lines. It's about SHEEPDOGS. All sheepdogs. And enjoying spending time with same with friends in whatever manner suits you best, plain and simple. If you want to catch up with other rescue people, you can. One of the highlights for me is it's one of the few places I run into Nita and I'm always grateful for her calm, common sense when I run into a problem with a rescue dog. But there are also people who show, people who do agility and so on, people who are interested in the health aspects of the breed. And people who just enjoy their sheepdogs for what they are. Period. It's the diversity that makes it special. But also one of the things that make it hard to organize and continue to appeal to all. There's no other event like it in the country and though there are many other excellent events, this one stands out for that very reason. If someone expected it to be purely rescue-centric, they would of course be dissapointed. It's kind of the organizers to fundraise for rescue and health & research, but that's only a small part of what the event is about. We're there to have fun with our dogs and meet up with friends we rarely see (or sometimes have only spoken to electronically, but somehow feel we know). How incredible is that? Judi rarely makes this point publicly, but the forum itself is in no small part the driving force behind this event. St Louis is probably as central as you get in the US. The St Louis club was kind enough to step up and make it a place where we could actually meet in person. Given the diversity of people and sheepdogs on the forum, it makes sense that the event would reflect that. The bigger question is: can it continue to do that and not end Val and Judi especially on the funny farm due to the amount of work that goes into such an event?
I've been involved in some capacity or another in helping organize several national specialties and though these events are larger on a number of levels, Sheepiepalooza is getting there in terms of size and activities. But whereas we have committees and subcommittees and the show chair can delegate (but generally still feels like checking him or herself in at a local funny farm by the time all is said and done) and doesn't usually do this year after year, in St Louis you have a very small handful of people doing it all with no such break. Where do they go from here and not end up in nice, padded rooms wearing straight jackets is probably the most relevant issue for them. Kristine |
| I suggested this on another post: we can volunteer from afar. I do not know if I will be able to attend next year - I definitely would love to - however, if I cannot attend I will still volunteer to do something to lessen the load on the Chairs. Acting as a Chair is also defined as deligating - we all love the dogs, love the socialability, the events, the paddleboats, but we can also all help. Give each of us a job for next year. On a personal note, when I saw all those assembled sheepdogs it warmed my heart - and Patch and I loved being a part of the assembly. |
Ron wrote: I really didn't see Chad's post as complaining, especially after his follow up clarification that it wasn't bad, just different than expected.
Wasn't the thread a request for feedback? I don't see why someone's honest feelings about the event should receive such a response. I know I certainly don't please every forum member all the time (especially after this post! ) Please, let's be extra nice to each other today and remember one of the pieces of our "Cup of Tea Mantra" which is to "read each post as if no insult was intended." To be honest, this was my immediate reaction to the "replies" to his honest feedback. ...which I really didn't view as trying to be offensive. He was just sharing what he thought it would be like, but clearly stated it was okay it wasn't ...just throwing it out there that maybe if there were more things during the day/broken up/made into one day ...then it would be more enjoyable for some. While I totally see why those who organized this would be offended, I think it's weird to expect only positive feedback. Again, I didn't see his reply as completely negative since he did enjoy his time there. I think it's understandable that this would be all about the "sheepies" too, but the person wasn't saying he was offended it was. ...just that he may have gotten a bit bored. As someone who goes to many "day events" with my family, I see people who can spend alllllllllllll day looking at rodeos, agility, kids chasing sheep, etc, etc ...but I am also someone who can walk through, play a little, chat a little, watch a little, and then think it's time to go. Still doesn't mean I didn't have fun, but it does mean that someone like myself may have enjoyed it more if there was even more. Or someone like me shouldn't attend at all. That may have not been possible to add more, but it was his honest feedback. I feel bad making this reply b/c I know how committed people are to this event and why it hurt some, but I was like Ron and kind of surprised by the replies. The guy obviously loves sheepies a lot or he wouldn't have attended imo. |
Sheepie2 wrote: I suggested this on another post: we can volunteer from afar.
Yes, I agree and I really think it's going to come down to this. It's harder to coordinate that way, and a disproportionate load still falls on local organizers by sheer proximity, but it is doable. Kristine |
Mad Dog wrote: Sheepie2 wrote: I suggested this on another post: we can volunteer from afar. Yes, I agree and I really think it's going to come down to this. It's harder to coordinate that way, and a disproportionate load still falls on local organizers by sheer proximity, but it is doable. Kristine I mentioned in another thread that I would help as well. I manage an art auction for two other events during the year, and I do that remotely too. I'd gladly help take the silent and regular auctions off their hands. Judi! Val! Let us help!!! And I love Michellina's idea to have part of the additional charge go towards a hospitality suite. I could display auction items there until the auction events, allowing people to get an eyeful f what was going to be available! Also, I found myself walking my dogs hoping I'd run into other group members, so I could chit chat with them. If there was a room I knew I could go to, it would be great. |
| I would love to have it be a four day event! That way we could spread things out and have more down time. I love helping and volunteering but I would love to have social time also. I am always available to help if you need me. I know I NEVER post but you know how to get a hold of me
Judi, if Keith hadn't been there I think Martha would have felt the same way as poor Harry
I love Sheepiepalooza because it is all about having fun and exploring new avenues with my Sheepie. I have two small children and this is why they stay home during this event 
Bre might be getting old enough now to come and not whine the whole time but I still don't know if I will bring her. I love just getting to be with my Martha. -LeAnne |
I had great fun last year and could not attend this year....I would love to attend however many days it is!! One day would not be enough and I would gladly pay more to attend this event. As long as we could eat where my sheepdog (s) could come I would not need a pet sitter Maybe if we all stayed in one area we could pay some one to sit outside and watch so our dogs are not dognapped I know how much work is put into this event and I would be willing to help in anyway I could Even if it meant coming a day early to help set things up. Every one is just so nice and willing to help folks attending (just a note I would have made a donation to someone if my dogs had been dropped off for a day of petsitting) Please please do this next year I know every three years would be easier for the club and I understand. But I missed it this year  |
| Thanks to everyone for their compliments, suggestions, feedback and offers to help. We will take everything into consideration. We certainly opened up the possibility for criticism of our event and in fact we welcome it to make Sheepiepalooza better.
However, the offense taken by myself and others to one particular post had to do with the inability to become self involved in an event that offers something for just about everyone. On a personal note, I took offense at the reference to the age of the attendees. I chose not to address it earlier but I will address it now. As one of the “seniors” at the overly ripe age of 45, it is cool to see people of all ages work hard together for a common interest. We come from all walks of life economically, socially and regionally. I can only say I am proud to be in such good company as most of the attendees of this event. I would like to clarify something in the original post. We were only looking to see if anyone would be willing to come for four days. Obviously, you could come to just one of the four days if you want. We have people do that every year. Regarding the offers to help, we will certainly take you up on the many things. We have to go back to the drawing board and see how this can be accomplished. I knew in throwing this out to the forum that there are things can be delegated from a distance. We have attempted to delegate locally for the last two years but it has not been as successful as we would have liked. Still there has to be at least one person locally willing to oversee things at this end and it cannot be me or Val. We are preparing for our local meeting within the next couple of weeks and hope to find someone to step up to the task. The great news is that most of the venues we work with here are established and as of yet we have not worn out our welcome. So it is not like we are trying to reinvent the wheel. Therefore the workload should be relatively easy when spread out. The main purpose of this post was to see how important the continuance of Sheepiepalooza was to you and from your responses it is clear that it is. I would like to ask a moderator to lock this thread now as I think we have discussed it sufficiently at this time. Thanks again. Judi President of the St. Louis OES Club |
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