Wikipedia:Meetup/NYC/August 2007

Come one, come all, to the first annual Wikipedian Picnic in Central Park, New York City (the WikNYC Picnic). Bring along your significant others, bring your offspring, bring your frisbees, your coolers, your sandwiches, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free, and whatever else you find appropriate. [Note: the picnic took place on August 12, 2007]

What, Where, When, and How?

 * What? Picnic in Central Park
 * Where? The Great Lawn, Southwest quadrant, just north of the Delacorte Theater (a Central Park (north is to the right) map and another map (north is up) focused on the Great Lawn section).
 * When? Sunday, 12 August 2007 from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. — High 90°F (at 3pm!), Mostly sunny
 * Rain date: Sunday, 19 August 2007
 * I heard 86 degrees this morning on CBS. Ab e g92 contribs 17:19, 12 August 2007 (UTC)
 * You were right; the actual high was 83. But man, it sure seemed hotter. TashTish 02:14, 13 August 2007 (UTC)
 * It's not the heat; it's the humidity. The dewpoint was in the 60s. Adam 03:03, 13 August 2007 (UTC)


 * How? By subway, take the IND Eighth Avenue Line B or A train to the 81st Street—Museum of Natural History station and enter the park at West 81st Street and Central Park West.
 * See Meetup/NYC/Directions for detailed directions by all modes of transportation.

What to bring

 * A blanket.
 * Food and snacks enough to feed yourself and a few of your fellow Wikipedians (salads, lunchmeats, breads, condiments, etc.).
 * No alcohol — This is prohibited in NYC Parks, and you could get arrested, and the organizers of the event fined.
 * Stool or folding chair if you prefer staying off the ground (no picnic tables, park benches often crowded).
 * Sunscreen; maybe a hat. Sunshine will be abundant and no shade is available on the Lawn itself, though there are shaded areas just off the Lawn, north of Delacorte Theater.
 * Beach umbrellas. Ditto.
 * Water and ice. No wind right now, and 43% humidity.

Two people brought blankets. I brought a 10' by 20' plastic tarp.

We brought 5 gallons of water that was never even opened, let alone consumed. Everyone preferred juice and Gatorade. The ice was all used, though.

There was so much extra food that some people brought some home with them. --Uncle Ed 21:14, 22 August 2007 (UTC)

I made an ID badge for anyone who wants it
I know it's kinda last minute, but someone below mentioned self-made ID badges, and since I make the ones that my company's employees use, I decided to make one myself, and it occurred to me that others might want to use it, so if anyone else wants to, you can download it at: http://img240.imageshack.us/img240/1904/wikibadgeas8.jpg. You can put your username, your real name, or both. It's a double-image so that if you want, you can fold it in half and laminate it or put it in a badge holder. Or, you could just cut it in half and print it onto an adhesive label and stick it on yourself. Whatever. Go crazy. Nightscream 16:28, 12 August 2007 (UTC)


 * The ID badges were a big hit. Almost everyone wore one. --Uncle Ed 21:15, 22 August 2007 (UTC)

Likely attendees
If you are interested in coming, add your name below to whichever section best describes your RSVP with # ~.
 * 1) -- Y not? 12:54, 4 June 2007 (UTC) I am taking my baseball glove so everyone can find out how much I suck at catching.
 * 2) Newyorkbrad 15:05, 4 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 3) Doc ♬ talk 14:36, 8 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 4) Becksguy (talk) Within walking distance, and would love to meet you all.  Noone wants to see me shirtless, but I'm sometimes funny.
 * 5) John Manuel Meetup parlance I play soccer, therefore I shall bring the ball, but thinking again let us talk see you all. John Manuel -19:41, 19 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 6) Healkids Looking forward...
 * 7) JustPhil[[Image:Flag of Germany.svg|15px]] 00:26, 20 June 2007 (UTC) Sure. Sounds good.
 * 8) User:Mordicai; I should be able to make it; see you folks there.
 * 9) User:Fordmadoxfraud; count me in too.  Ford MF 16:21, 21 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 10) User:sh76us; Sounds like fun. I'll try to make it, although my wife is due right around then so I can't guarantee. Sh76us 16:21, 22 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 11) Jeff G. (talk&#124;contribs) 14:57, 24 June 2007 (UTC) Count me in too!
 * 12) --rocketrye12talk/contribs 16:01, 25 June 2007 (UTC) I will absolutely make it!  I'm not sure if i'll recognize anyone, but it will be a good chance to mingle.  Count me in, and, think of me if you need help planning/organizing anything.
 * 13)  S  t  a f f w aterboy 18:02, 4 July 2007 (UTC) im there i live in ny too!
 * 14) Gosgood Yes. Agree with Pharos. Prospect Park  is  better! Maybe next time... — Gosgood 14:57, 6 July 2007 (UTC)
 * 15) Pharos 18:01, 14 July 2007 (UTC)  My name's on the permit now, so I'm pretty committed at this point.
 * 16) MessedRocker (talk) 21:02, 26 July 2007 (UTC)
 * 17) Nightscream Count me in. Nightscream 00:53, 1 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 18) Woogie10w I'll check it out, rain or shine.--Woogie10w 01:41, 1 August 2007 (UTC)Sorry, got sidtracked this afternoon--Woogie10w 19:14, 12 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 19) Daniel Case coming down from the Hudson Valley. I've held off signing up but it looks like I'll be able to make it now. Daniel Case 12:57, 1 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 20) Jeremyb 07:53, 2 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 21) Space Cadet 11:31, 3 August 2007 (UTC) Definite 90% chance of attending.
 * 22) Jim.henderson 01:54, 4 August 2007 (UTC) I'll be there.  It's only a two mile walk, or bike if lazy.
 * 23) TashTish 04:53, 4 August 2007 (UTC) Sounds great. One q: How do we tell a Wiki from a curious passerby?
 * Everybody wearing a self-made badge with the WIKI logo and a User Name would solve the problem. Space Cadet 14:11, 6 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 1) --Kaveri 17:40, 5 August 2007 (UTC), why not. I just started actively editing in Wikipedia. I don't know what to expec out of the meet but Central Park picnic is always fun.
 * 2) Robcuny 11:54, 6 August 2007 (UTC) Can't get there until 6:30, so I hope you all stay late. (If it's incentive to stay: I too look good shirtless.)
 * 3) jncohen 03:11, 7 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 4) BusterD 11:18, 8 August 2007 (UTC) Weather forecast looks hot and clear.
 * 5) Sidepocket 16::49 8 August 2007  Have nothing to do on Sunday so this is perfect. Will bring food, Jenga, and a mystery surprise...
 * 6) Invertzoo 18:11 8 August 2007. Sounds good to me, my first WIKI event. I live sort of nearby.
 * 7) Comradevik 04:07, 10 August 2007 (UTC) I will be in Central Park around this time, so I should join in.
 * 8) Elipongo, I'll be schlepping down! &mdash;Elipongo (Talk contribs) 14:17, 10 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 9) Changing from "possible" to "likely". Wl219 20:56, 10 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 10) Thinboy00 talk/contribs 21:03, 10 August 2007 (UTC) I will be there, unless something goes horribly wrong
 * 11) I should be free. But how are you going to get all us fidgety recluses to interact with each other? :-) — Omegatron 02:35, 12 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 12) I've been getting that annoying banner for weeks, and I'll probably be in the neighborhood, so why not? :) Adam 03:55, 12 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 13) Weirdest coincidence. Just logged on to Wikipedia  while visiting the USA -- got that universe-wide banner advertising this meeting. As planned several months ago, will be in Central Park with wife & some of the kids tomorrow. Uncle Ed, the weather looks promising & no excuse! If you remember me, this is your chance to get mad/even - otherwise, tabulae rasae and prepare for a shock? Cyde Weys, I hope you'll be able to make it -- I'll remember that revolving X forever, smiling. Raul654: I'm an officer of law -- be there. Or else. Avb 04:26, 12 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 14) I plan to be there, dependent upon how well I'm doing in my food poisoning recovery.  If I have a problem while at church, I won't be there. --Scottandrewhutchins 13:04, 12 August 2007 (UTC)

Possible attendees
If you are interested in coming, add your name below to whichever section best describes your RSVP with # ~.


 * 1) Imdanumber1 I'll try to make it on the rain date. I am away and will not be returning to Manhattan until that day.
 * 2) I'll be returning from a long trip, but I will try to make it! Ssilvers 04:51, 4 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 3) ragesoss 04:58, 4 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 4) Broadwaygal 13:42, 4 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 5) I'd love to attend. It will be great to associate names and faces. Alansohn 14:02, 4 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 6) I'll try to make it. Mak  (talk)  15:02, 4 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 7) If I'm free, definitely. (It's definite now.)  Prospect Park is more fun, though.--Pharos 23:30, 4 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 8) Although anything can happen between now and then, I'm definitely hoping to make it... TML 00:48, 6 June 2007 (UTC)  Depends on what my work schedule will be. TML 21:44, 11 August 2007 (UTC)
 * Maybe can come again this time. It was great to meet some folks last time. --Aude (talk) 02:48, 6 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 1) If I'm free to be in New York that weekend.  —CComMack (t–c) 05:04, 6 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 2) I'll give it a go if I'm not too time lagged -- get back from Wikimania/Tapei on the 10th. --Reagle 15:45, 6 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 3) If I'm free I'm there... even if I too am falling asleep from jet lag. :-) Kat Walsh (spill your mind?) 17:07, 6 June 2007 (UTC)
 * I am bringing a pillow for Kat. Man, it's pleasant to nap outdoors! -- Y not? 19:36, 6 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 1) If I'm in town. (I'm in town.) Wl219 21:21, 6 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 2) If I can get up there in August, sure. ^  demon [omg plz] 16:54, 7 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 3) I'm not that far away, so I'll what I can do. Grace notes T § 17:09, 7 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 4) I'll try to make it, only 140 miles away. Bearian 19:52, 7 June 2007 (UTC) Leaning towards likely as of today. Bearian 19:33, 30 July 2007 (UTC) I'll be there. Bearian 03:00, 12 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 5) 95% likelihood if I'm in New York City that day. 50% chance that I will be in NYC. Looking forward to seeing you again and those that are new!  CoolGuy 08:25, 8 June 2007 (UTC)
 * If I'm not in San Diego that week -- yes. Agree with Pharos Prospect Park  is  better! Now a likely. Gosgood 14:29, 9 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 1) —MrSomeone ( tlk • cntrb ) 02:10, 10 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 2) Might be too hot for me. --Uncle Ed 15:27, 11 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 3) I don't really consider myself an active Wikipedian-or a Wikipedian in general, to be frank-other than my increasingly rare contributions, but this does sound like like it could be a lot of fun, and I've never shied away from meeting people from the world of the InTaRwEbz. Depending upon the weather this might be something worth trying. So put me down as a very tentative "yes." Ruthfulbarbarity 19:18, 11 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 4) &mdash;Gordon P. Hemsley→ &#x2709;  19:36, 13 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 5) More love for p-squared here. --Howrealisreal 15:48, 14 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 6) Likely to be out of town, but if I'm around, sure, why not? Jd2718 22:17, 16 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 7) Can't wait! Jamiew 03:08, 19 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 8) Sounds great. Hopefully I can make it. kc12286 19:42, 19 June 2007 (UTC)
 * Honestly, I don't know if I'll be back in Miami for school at this time. But if I'm still in New York, I'll try to get there.— Ryūlóng ( 竜龍 ) 20:49, 19 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 1) I might make it out.  If so, I'll bring my baseball glove and some friends! --Nemilar 22:28, 19 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 2) I will do my best to come; give me about a fifty-fifty chance.  Great idea!  paul klenk talk 08:42, 20 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 3) I'm not an outdoors person and I'm a little shy, but I am still interested and am considering it. Tinlinkin 10:31, 21 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 4) If I will be somewhere around, I would like to come too :) --Wizzard 22:38, 21 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 5) I might be around. I'm working in Lower Manhattan by the financial district. But I just hope I come back from my business trip as soon as possible to join the event. --Mbhskid520 June 21 19:31
 * 6) I might attend. A reminder as the date gets closer would be appreciated. Raul654 05:00, 24 June 2007 (UTC)
 * PS - I'll be in Florida for the rain-date, so if the scheduled date is rained out, I won't be able to make the rescheduled date. Raul654 20:57, 5 July 2007 (UTC)
 * 1) If I can -- there are people here I want to actually see. DGG 06:20, 24 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 2) An old friend from out of town will be visiting me that weekend.  So, I will only go if a) she's down too (not gonna bother finding out this far in advance) or b) it rains (I am free on the raindate)! -Seidenstud 06:16, 27 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 3) Hmmm ... I've been dying to wind the Miata up through the twisty-turns on Route 6 just south of Bear Mountain Bridge (on the Hudson River y'all) ... and it would be our 32nd anniversary (we could get a nice room at the Day's Inn in Elmsford and a very nice dinner at Jennifer's ... mmm) ... let me see what can be done!  :-)  JimScott 17:30, 28 June 2007 (UTC)
 * I'd like to come, but I may be doing a ballpark tour in the Midwest on the date. If I'm in town, I'll do my best to attend.  So right now I'm a solid maybe. EnjoysButter 06:54, 2 July 2007 (UTC)
 * I'll be out of town. If you get rained out, I'll likely make it.  Sorry. EnjoysButter 19:14, 4 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 1) A definite maybe. Add me to the reminder list please! Tvoz | talk 00:46, 9 July 2007 (UTC)
 * 2) I may be in summer school. I will come if I can. Greg Jones II 00:05, 11 July 2007 (UTC)
 * 3) I may. Andre (talk) 23:38, 12 July 2007 (UTC)
 * 4) I'll probably be there. --Gmaxwell 17:10, 14 July 2007 (UTC)
 * 5) Sounds like a good idea. Hope I can be there, but not sure. --Steve, Sm8900 17:28, 15 July 2007 (UTC)
 * 6) I'm in the DC area, but might be willing to schlep myself (and family) to NYC (especially if I miss the DC Meetup on 07/21). -- Gyrofrog (talk) 13:19, 16 July 2007 (UTC)
 * 7) OMG! That is so in my town!--Knulclunk 02:31, 26 July 2007 (UTC)
 * 8) user:76 Cent i can't go because my mom would never let me :(
 * 9) Denimadept I hope to. We'll see.
 * 10) Kgwo1972 18:09, 1 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 11) I might have a barbecue to attend on that day, among other things, but if I can make it, I will. —BrOnXbOmBr21 • talk • contribs • 20:20, 1 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 12) Sounds very interesting, so I'll try. Estimate the likelihood at 50% given the usual family commitments. --Leifern 18:24, 2 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 13) If I decide to get up on that Sunday... Renata 19:50, 2 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 14) Never been to something like this before. But interested. 3rd year med student, so my schedule is a b*tch. Touro  Osteopathic  Freak  T  13:44, 3 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 15) I had fun at the DC meetup. If the train from Washington is reasonable, I might go. &rArr;   SWAT  Jester    Denny Crane.  17:28, 3 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 16) A definite maybe...public transportation is non-existent on Sundays (from here), and driving into NYC... Y'all know. Hgilbert 13:43, 4 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 17) I could walk there. And I just might. --Yamara 11:57, 5 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 18) I'm going to give it a shot, but I'm not 100% sure yet. But I hope I can, and can't wait to meet some of you guys! LuvataciousSkull 14:20, 5 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 19) Oh geez.. the first time I'm in NYC in many months, and that particular day happens to be no good for me... I'd love to come, but no can do. Maybe next time :) LordAmeth 22:09, 5 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 20) User:Star-of-David92 Im not sure if i can come but i hope can come, and i know it'll be great.
 * 21) User:Suredeath Might drop by.
 * tonsofpcs (Talk) 05:49, 8 August 2007 (UTC)
 * Maybe I can make it.— Ryūlóng ( 竜龍 ) 06:19, 8 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 1) Rob T Firefly 19:09, 8 August 2007 (UTC) Plans are a bit fuzzy at the moment, but I shall definitely try to be there.  If I go, I'll bring a chessboard. Can't make it after all.
 * 2) Decafdyke 02:07, 9 August 2007 (UTC) nerds with frisbees!
 * 3) Kimota 08:06, 9 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 4) I'll try to make it, but I can probably only stay for the first hour or so. I'll bring the candy! Ab e g92 contribs 22:00, 10 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 5) Maybe I can come, but for like an hour or two. Mit ch contribs 17:36, 12 August 2007 (UTC)

Regrets
If you cannot come but wanted to and now want to send your best...add your name below to whichever section best describes your RSVP with # ~. We might invite you next time!


 * 1) JamesMLane t c 04:31, 4 June 2007 (UTC) I've been to other NYC meetups but I'll be out of town for this one.  Have fun, and keep me on the list for future invitations.
 * 2) Choess 17:36, 7 June 2007 (UTC) (moved; sorry!)
 * 3) I would LOVE to go, but I'm just coming from church and what would I tell my parents. QuasyBoy 19:37, 7 June 2007 (UTC)
 * On the 7th day, God rested. You can rest with your Wikipedia friends after church -- Bring parents along.  -- Ssilvers 15:46, 11 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 1) I'd also love to come, but I don't think I'll be able to make it, owing to that whole parent thing. --ST47 Talk 16:50, 11 June 2007 (UTC)
 * MessedRocker brought his dad last time, and it was very nice to meet both of them, and his dad didn't look too scared, so it's a possibility. Mak (talk)  17:59, 11 June 2007 (UTC)
 * I believe the form of introduction was "this is Messedrocker ... and this is Messedrocker's chauffeur." :) Newyorkbrad 21:27, 12 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 1) The age/parent thing...-- (Review Me) R Parlate Contribs@(Let's Go Yankees!) 23:31, 12 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 2) Ditto on the age/parent thing, and about the Yankees being awesome. Good luck to all you lucky people who manage to make it, though! Special Penguin (Talk) 16:37, 31 July 2007 (UTC)
 * 3) wish i could go, but i live on the other side of New York! ( rochester :0 ) Evaunit666 00:25, 13 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 4) Rochester here too.  Have fun, everyone.  Dstumme 01:29, 13 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 5) Thanks for the invite. If it wasn't for the eight hour drive from Buffalo I'd def. be there! Have fun guys and gals! --eLeigh33 01:53, 13 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 6) I'm out of town, sorry. Plus, internet meetups + parents ≠ good time had by all. --Fbv65 e del / ☑t / ☛c || 03:29, 13 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 7) I'd love to come, but unfortunately there's the slight inconvenience of the Atlantic Ocean.  I'll be with you in spirit, however. David Mestel(Talk) 03:47, 13 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 8) It's now likely that I can't come this time, since I'll be giving a talk at Wikimania.  Don't think I'll get back that quick, to be there on the 12th.  If it rains and the picnic happen on the 19th, then I may come after all. --Aude (talk) 04:30, 13 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 9) Thanks for the invite but Buffalo is 400 miles away. Next year maybe somewhere more central, like Syracuse or Albany? Hell, Rockland County is 2 hours closer for Western New Yorkers...--CastAStone|(talk) 15:33, 15 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 10) It's easy to get from Brooklyn (where I live) to Central Park but unfortunately I'll be out of town for a little over a week when this event is happening.  Hopefully next year though, have fun!--Bigtimepeace | talk |  contribs 16:28, 18 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 11) Unfortunately I'm going to have to add my whole "I'd come if I could but I'm out of town!" though if by some chance the rain date ends up in play, I'm there.  --mordicai. 20:20, 19 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 12) I'd love to go, but I'm tied up with work in Odenton, Maryland, all summer. Way lame. Larry V (talk &#124; e-mail) 22:07, 19 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 13) Not of age and I couldn't get a ride anyway. Maybe another time. Lemmy12 02:02, 20 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 14) Sorry, it sounds like fun, but I am 300 miles away in northern upstate New York. If the event was within range, I would definitely attend. Okuzaone 04:01, 20 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 15) Sorry, I wish I could go, but I could never get parental permission. Thanks for the invite, though! Lizzysama 04:51, 20 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 16) Sorry, currently in the Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines for my freshman year... sadly I'll be coming back to New York on March of the next year... so just have fun and enjoy! -chris^_^ 09:16, 20 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 17) Sorry, I'll be at camp. Plus, I don't even know if children under 18 can attend, and even if they could, my parents would surely disapprove. Smartyshoe 18:35, 20 June 2007 (UTC)
 * People under 18 can attend. We are meeting in Central Park, not a bar. All pretty tame stuff.  --David Shankbone 18:44, 20 June 2007 (UTC)
 * True, but they need their parents permission for both practical and legal reasons. And I don't have mine.
 * I don't disagree, but there won't be anybody checking permission slips.--David Shankbone 20:12, 20 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 1) Sorry, but I will be on vacation in Newfoundland that week. Please keep me in mind for future meetups, especially if they are in Boston or Worcester, as both of those are closer to where I live. --Tckma 19:51, 20 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 2) I would love to, but NYC is a 6+ hour drive and I don't know anybody who would be willing to drive me (I don't own my own car). Have fun though. TJ Spyke 21:50, 20 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 3) I won't be in NY that week, otherwise I would love to attend. Steggall 02:43 21 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 4) thanks so much for the invite. would love to come, but will be out of town on vacation then. J. Van Meter 01:14, 21 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 5) Sadly have previous engagement on the main date. Thank you kindly for the invite, regardless.  Nick Curtis 10:25, 21 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 6) As much as I like Wikipedia, I'm not THAT into it to attend a meet-up... not just yet. Maybe next time. Thanks though. --Jon Ace 01:24, 23 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 7) Maybe some other time. Thank you for the invitation.Dragonbite 03:47, 24 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 8) I live in Buffalo, and there's that whole parent thing, so sorry! Sounds fun though. Dr. Hannibal Lecter 02:24, 25 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 9) Money's kinda tight and NYC ain't exactly right next door! Odin of Trondheim 18:14, 26 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 10) Sounds appealing, but NYC is a mighty big bunny hop from Rochester. Sorry. --T M F Let's Go Mets - Stats 04:44, 27 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 11) Not in town that weekend. Maybe next time. Have fun y'all. Tsekub 17:55, 27 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 12) I'd like to, but I'll be in Louisiana for work then. --mcornelius 01:36, 28 June 2007 (UTC)
 * I'll definitely be in Florida after checking the Fall semester's calendar.— Ryūlóng ( 竜龍 ) 05:18, 30 June 2007 (UTC)
 * 1) I'd love to be there, but all weekends in August are tied up with community picnics on Saturdays and family reunions on Sundays in Pennsylvania/Maryland. Doc ♬ talk 20:23, 5 July 2007 (UTC)
 * 2) I don't think I'll be making it. I'm leaving for school not too long after that, so I'll be busy shopping and packing. =( --Jen 00:34, 4 July 2007 (UTC)
 * 3) I'm moving to Los Angeles at the end of July. Sorry! However, I will always be a New Yorker at heart, so I'll still keep an eye on the meetups in case I'm in NY for the next one. Kafziel Talk 04:28, 9 July 2007 (UTC)
 * 4) Sorry. I'm poor, and I don't have any form of transportation to use. I doubt my parents would allow me to go just because my favorite site on the internet invited me to go. To everyone else: Have a great and fun time! Michaeldsuarez 11:29, 9 July 2007 (UTC)
 * 5) I'm thousands of miles away, but I still dread for NYC... I'd come if someone pays :) -- Filip  ( § ) 21:29, 10 July 2007 (UTC)
 * 6) Will be on vacation in Montauk...maybe next year? -- BlastOButter42 See  Hear  Speak  04:15, 11 July 2007 (UTC)
 * 7) Sounds cool but I don't think my parents will take me frrom Syracuse :). They're rather busy.  vlad§inger  tlk  01:42, 14 July 2007 (UTC)
 * 8) Out of town.  Cbrown1023    talk   02:13, 15 July 2007 (UTC)
 * 9) I don't really live in NY anymore. Thanks anyway. rmagill 02:13, 27 July 2007 (UTC)
 * 10) I was considering all summer attempting to make this meetup, but ultimately this is too close to other can't-miss events scheduled for me (both on August 11 and August 17). I live approximately four hours away (near Washington, DC during the summer, near Boston during the school year), but I don't mind the updates. There just might be a chance I could attend a future event in New York (I was there just last week). --  tariq abjotu  17:44, 31 July 2007 (UTC)
 * 11) I'm based in DC, so the travel is kinda prohibitive.  Thanks, though.  --fuzzy510 17:45, 31 July 2007 (UTC)
 * 12) I would love to come, but I'm underage. Which is most likely a "no". Pacific Coast Highway {talk • contribs} 22:26, 31 July 2007 (UTC)
 * 13) I'm having a job at BK. Brian Boru is awesome 23:17, 31 July 2007 (UTC)
 * 14) I'm running a blood drive (in Philly) that day, so can't make it. Thanks for the invite though. Ornith 23:47, 31 July 2007 (UTC)
 * 15) 2nd half of Sunday in NYC does not work for me. Sat or Sun in Boston would. Thanks for the invitation. Solarapex 11:32, 1 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 16) As much as I'd love to come, I live in DC, way too far away. --Defend er 9 11  14:40, 1 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 17) Thank you for the invitation. I regret to inform you that I will be unable to attend this event. Best wishes to everyone. CTS10866 21:30, 1 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 18) Sunday simply doesn't work for me, and I suspect, many out-of-towners.  There's no time for me to get home post-meetup at night in time to go to work the next morning.  Now if it was on Saturday, I would be able to attend &mdash; I'd take the early Chinatown bus up to New York, attend the meetup, couchsurf the night, and take the early Chinatown bus the next morning to DC.  -- Cyde Weys  03:00, 2 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 19) Dagnabbit! Blasted holiday plans! Afraid I'll be elsewhere. samwaltz 14:17, 2 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 20) Thank you, I'd love to, but I 8-( work Sundays 8-(. J S Ayer 21:20, 2 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 21) Thanks, but I can't. I usually sleep during this time. Besides, my mom would never give me money for travel, even though I live so close (Brooklyn). Bronislav84 01:34, 3 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 22) Same reason as Evaunit666 and Dstumme. - Penwhale &#124; Blast him / Follow his steps 19:51, 3 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 23) I'm so sorry I can't attend. I'll be away on business. CTS10866 22:28, 3 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 24) Sadly, I already drove up from Western Florida in late-June & early-July 2007, so I won't be able to do it this time. Which is too bad, because my previous trip was short and I didn't get to do everything I wanted at the time.  DanTD 02:54, 4 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 25) I'm afraid I'll be killed if I skip a wedding.  Hopfully next time around! Gan <font color="Green">fon  00:20, 5 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 26) Yamaka122 ... <font color="#FFFFFF">:)  13:45, 5 August 2007 (UTC) Out of town,but would love to come next year!!
 * 27) It's too much of a hassle for me to get there, but maybe next time! Dan 17:24, 5 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 28) Unfortunately, I can't make it. Maybe next time. kc12286 01:54, 6 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 29) Working. :( Anybody want to do a picnic in Columbus, Ohio? Aelffin 10:49, 6 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 30) Would love to come, but securing a ride is impossible Rgoodermote 22:15, 6 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 31) I am scheduled to work August 12, but it sounds like a great idea. See you next time! mariox19 16:25, 7 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 32) I feel really bad about this because my schedule won't allow my presence. If there's another picnic in NY next Spring/Summer I'll try to make sure that I'm available.
 * 33) Packing for college and camp. Have never been to one of these, didn't know they existed. Now I wish I did.... MystRivenExile 20:52, 7 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 34) Gonna be down in the OBX for vacation. Maybe next time.  Jr  ss  r5  17:20, 8 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 35) Thanks for the invite, but I don't live in the area. Sinisterminister 17:55, 8 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 36) I'm busy sorry. Nintendo freak 128 22:52, 8 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 37) Thanks a lot,but I live in Vancouver,so it's kinda far for me.Anyway,keep me on the list for further parties (Teodobre)
 * 38) I'd love to come, but its a bit far for someone too young to drive, and I just got the invite. Mabye in a couple of years. I could probably come to one in Philadelphia... FerralMoonrender (MyTalk • MyContribs • EmailMe) 07:20, 9 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 39) I would love to attend but just learned of this event about ten minutes ago. I have another event planned (seeing an old childhood friend who I haven't seen in eighteen years) up in Woodstock. I will definitely come to the next one if all is in line with the cosmos.
 * 40) Travelling the world right now. <small style="color:#000">east . <small style="color:gray">718   at 16:49, August 9, 2007 
 * 41) Out of town on business, sorry folks. alphachimp  00:39, 10 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 42) Happily occupied. JNW 03:18, 10 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 43) <font color= "black" face="Old English Text MT" size="4">TearJohnDown 11:36, 10 August 2007 (UTC) - Darn, I would have liked to attend, but I will be in Toronto. Please keep me informed of any future meetups!
 * 44) David Shankbone 15:40, 6 June 2007 (UTC) I do not play sports, but I can spit, tell jokes and look good without my shirt.
 * 45) Something suddenly came up.— Ryūlóng  ( 竜龍 ) 07:13, 11 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 46) Unfortunately, my work schedule proved to be unfavorable. TML 03:23, 12 August 2007 (UTC)
 * 47) Unfortunately out of town --Work permit 04:44, 12 August 2007 (UTC)

Things to do in New York

 * See also: Meetup/NYC/December_6%2C_2006


 * Take a pre-meetup stroll around Central Park.
 * More ambitious, stroll the street fair in Madison Avenue in the 50s, then E60th to the Park, through the Central Park Zoo, stop at the Model Boat Basin to see the nesting wild hawks, then walk over Cedar Hill to the Meetup.
 * Highly ambitious: Meet bicyclers at Columbus Circle the night before, ride over George Washington Bridge and back to New York through Lincoln Tunnel at 2 AM.
 * Less ambitious: Spend late morning/early afternoon at American Museum of Natural History and planetarium before a short walk to the picnic.
 * Afterwards, see a free outdoor performance of A Midsummer Night's Dream at the Delacorte Theater (near the meet-up site) in the park that night at 8PM. See here and this too. If you want to go, you'll have to pick up the (free) tickets earlier in the day, though. Ticket line starts at 6am in the morning, and if you don't get in line before 10am, you're not as likely to get seats.
 * See a free outdoor performance of Farquar on the Run: THE RECRUITING OFFICER at 7:00 pm (The New York Classical Theatre) at West 103rd Street and Central Park West, inside the Park.
 * Wo Hop.
 * Wander the city.
 * See a show in the theatre district.

Post-meetup summary
The picnic took place in Central Park as scheduled, where scheduled, on a sunny, hot and very humid afternoon. Uncle Ed had shopped for food, and others chipped in with items or money. Makemi's rolling shopping basket was used to transport supplies and, later, trash.

A lovely time was had by all, and there was a very collegial atmosphere. Some frisbee playing occurred, with minimal damage to nearby groups of innocent park-goers, but the heat and humidity of the day prevented too much physical activity. After initial milling around and snacking/lunching, many attendees settled, cross-legged, into a circle to discuss a number of issues listed below.

Attendees of record

 * mordicai
 * Knulclunk
 * Y not?
 * Newyorkbrad
 * Messedrocker
 * Ssilvers
 * Broadwaygal
 * David Shankbone
 * Raul654
 * Thinboy00 + parent
 * Nightscream
 * Invertzoo


 * Pharos
 * Bearian
 * Gosgood
 * Ragesoss + spouse
 * Gmaxwell
 * Mindspillage
 * CComMack
 * DGG
 * Ed Poor + 7 friends
 * Reagle
 * Jeremyb


 * Jim.henderson
 * Sidepocket
 * Avb
 * Adam613
 * Scottandrewhutchins
 * TashTish
 * Mak
 * Elipongo
 * Daniel Case + son
 * Nbauman
 * BusterD

Things discussed

 * The colossal mess that Megafauna is.
 * Transcribing the Royal Society archives (who was it who downloaded them?)
 * That would be User:Gmaxwell, hero of the Commons.


 * Copyright & why Wikipedia is pushing for free images.
 * David Shankbone's body parts (of a model) gallery and the unused
 * Little Man
 * What is a stub v. what is an article.
 * Approaching the Metropolitan Museum of Art for opening up their archives/granting us special access for photography.
 * Standardizing article versions to be cited in papers.
 * Alternate versions for controversial articles.
 * Micromollusks
 * How hang-overs influence time spent on Wikipedia.
 * Cycling editors through AfD.
 * Willy on Wheels
 * The difficulty of writing a decent summary to an article.
 * What to do if banned users attend meetups, or two participants on opposing sides of an RfC showed up and decided to settle it right then and there.
 * Smackdown!


 * What's doing with Wikimedia Pennsylvania, and why metro-level local chapters might make more sense than state-level ones.
 * How User:Raul654's work is never done.
 * How Military History project has become an FA machine; raising questions as to why this has become the case
 * WP:Notability of playwrights with only 600 or so Google hits.
 * Qualifications for a WP:Good article
 * WP:Lamest Edit Wars/Charun
 * Danzig vs. Gdansk: The five year's edit war.
 * More people than I planned on, asked me about Conservapedia, global warming or George Bush (Uncle Ed)