I have been away from home, so I missed a lot of this...I didn't read the whole thread...so ignore me if things were already covered.
I think I read someone mentioning the Fall.....but I think last year it was planned for June 21st because most schools were out (so those w/ kids in school didn't have to worry about anything regarding that), early summer (nice weather (hopefully), those planning vacations still could (other than the meet-up)etc, etc.
As for why KC was picked last year...I just don't remember. I know Lisa had family there and I think Jodie did too. (and it was the DEAD center of the US - I remember that). I think that is why it was picked....plus the fact it was near a major airport, dog friendly and had a lot of attractions. I know, I wouldn't have EVER picked KC (I had never been) and I know I wasn't too sure about it at first either...but it was pretty much clear that was the place to go...I know that one was mentioned over and over in the planning process...and it sounds like it was a great location.
As far as people NOT attending that said they would....I don't think that is really an issue. I know if they paid, wasn't that non-refundable...so that money was still going toward the event. I know, I was all gong-ho to attend...but found out at Christmas that we were having our family reunion around that time...then found out when it was and how many house guests (if any) I would have, etc. Things come up that really can't be helped. (sad) And people shouldn't be looked down upon for things like this (that is out of their control) coming up. --I mean, you do not know how many times I threatened to just be gone that weekend and miss my family who was flying in. Seriously!
I LOVE Cindy's idea and I think (if she is up to it), she should be a big part of the planning committee! Cindy, you are great...and above all, you are a voice of reason and you truly think of everyone and everything! YOU GO GIRL! I still think that there should be a vote ($10 like Cindy mentioned...so that is a good start on the planning and cost)! I think if more people had a say, maybe more people would be more apt to attend.
I don't know if those who attended the KC meet-up should be the only ones w/ a say....we are a huge group....I think Cindy's idea ROCKS!
As for location...I don't remember it being written in stone that each year would be one on one coast, center, vise/versa, etc. Yea, the concept of being fair is always nice, but in reality...it normally never works out as planned. With that being said...if we could get a census on some areas...check out those areas (dog friendly, dog rates, attractions, etc)...then go from there.
I know a lot of people keep mentioning certain areas because THEY want to go there....and that is great. That is how places get found.....but, we have to look into all locations. AND I think the biggest thing would be the cost (dog rates at hotel, places that dogs are allowed, etc)...afterall, these dogs are the reason for these meet-ups!
I think that it is great to try that...but you have to remember too....it is a lot farther for someone on one coast to fly/drive to the other....AND if a location can be found w/ good rates, good attractions, dog friendly and where it isn't outragiously priced per dog to stay...that HAS to be looked into (no matter what location)!!!!
And I agree w/ Jodie....just because there is a "cluster" of YT members in one area, doesn't mean that is the best area...we have to look at everyone, everything, etc.