Copia is always a fun time. I suggest making reservations early for next year. Not yet though, I haven’t signed a contract. I requested the same ten rooms and the meeting room at the same price. I’ll let you know when we have a contract.  The reasons I suggest early booking are to make sure you have a room at the best place in Madtown and you can always cancel for free if plans change. HIE is really top notch. Folks who were canceled at the Clarion also discovered this gem. As others have mentioned, the service is second to none.

Thanks to Mike for his presentation on the Erie Canal to Statue of Liberty. It was fun hearing about a non traditional place to paddle. He’s planning to paddle the Tennessee River in April. Maybe we’ll connect as that’s in my neighborhood.

When I have a signed contract, I’ll start a new thread, Canoecopia 2026. 

I agree with PORTAGE DOG. The Holiday Inn Express is the best hotel for Copia. The rooms were topnotch, nice breakfast, excellent meeting room and the hospitality was A+. And you could walk across to the Alliant Energy Center or take their free shuttle.

I think we should do it again next year at this venue. Old Salt got us a good deal and the manager (Amy) would like us to reup for 2026. I know some of her family (POCI FARMS)  in Rock Falls, IL and she said she would  treat us well.

Old Salt did a a great job with his ALASKA Presentation on Sunday Morning. I am sure he should get excellent reviews and be asked to come back next year.

I enjoyed catching up with fellow QJ'ers.

See you all next year!

I'll agree that the Holiday Inn Express is the best place we've stayed at for Copia since I've attended - a good few but less than most of you QJer's.  Thanks to OS for lining that up and looking forward to the same next year.  Thanks to Rich, Scott, Mike, Terry and everyone that contributed!

It was awesome catching up with all the folks that made it and meeting a few new paddlers as well.  I really enjoyed the story sharing and trip planning opportunities.

pd

Your Norski Nook pie was well received and enjoyed by all. You may be ‘on the hook’ for this for future Copias.

Over the weekend I spoke with the GM about our arrangements, which were very satisfactory, and the closing of the Clarion. Turns out the same management group that owns the HIE is the group that bought the Clarion. During the reconstruction period, their staff will be trained at the HIE. They will reopen as a Hilton property, and employees will be cross-trained for both facilities. When I asked her if they would be open in time for Copia, she said that was the plan. She asked if our group would want to move over there, I told her that we are satisfied where we are, but we are open for discussion according to where we can get the best deal. Talks will continue. If you have any thoughts or input, please post here or contact me directly.
Overall, another great Copia. My speaking slot was head to head with Cliff Jacobsen, doing his final Copia, Bear Paulson, and Peter Marshall, three heavy hitters. I figured I would be lucky if 5 folks came, I was pleasantly impressed with a roomful. Folks are hungry for anything about Alaska. Thanks to Wally 13 for helping out in several ways. I hope to do another Alaska show next year.

Good seeing everyone this weekend.There are some really interesting trips being planned for this year. Lots of good stories were told -- some were probably even true Thanks to Walley13 for the Erie Canal presentation.

I'm looking forward to some of my own trips into Quetico and beyond. Thanks to Rich for setting us up in the HIE this year.

Kevin Callan had a couple of good presentations - his top 10 routes in Canada and an outstanding presentation on Opasquia!

P.S. Thanks to MuleLars too  for his excellent coordination and hosting us as always in his hometown.

Good place, Good times, Good people as always.

I even bought some stuff this year!

Sounds good, Bill. The reservation is under ‘Rich Williamson’. We’ll see you there.

Old Salt wrote on Feb 27^th, 2025 at 8:05pm:


Just a reminder Im still planning on liberty station gathering but will not use shuttle. I'll plan to be at door when shuttle arrives.

See you at the hotel, Marten.

Old Salt wrote on Mar 7^th, 2025 at 1:09pm:



I will buy a Sat. from you

Have fun. Drive safe. Do good things.