I am in for Friday Pizza and Sat BBQ for sure.

TomT,

Usually a number of us will gather near the entrance (where they take your ticket) at some pre-designated time prior to Noon.  After assembling, we migrate over to a local place together to grab a bite for lunch.  It's usually within easy walking distance (I'm too cheap to pay their stiff price for parking twice in one day!).  In years past we marched over to the Badger Bowl but in the most recent couple of years we've walked over to a spot  in the other direction (Coliseum Bar & Banquet on East Olin???).  Chances are that we'll let MuleLars "lead the way" since he knows the area best (any excuse to make someone ELSE the leader usually works in QJ circles).

As far as traipsing about the show together, well, birds of a feather often find themselves flocking to similar presentations and vendor displays.  So, I'd say groupings occur more by happenstance & common interest versus by premeditation, at least in my experience. 

Personally, chances are I'll wear a QJ "Shut Up & Paddle" shirt just to have a plausible entree for conversation with other QJ'ers that might stumble across my path.  I suppose one of the many "flamingo" shirts that I have been given over the years by paddling friends would also serve that purpose in my particular case.  Oh, and I'm fond of wearing a brown leather Alaskan Bush Pilot hat.  Anyway, if you see such a character on the premises, chances are it's me.

I really only attend the actual show on Saturday.  I bounce between presentations that interest me and vendor surfing in the exhibition hall.  This year it looks like Old Salt & Wally13's dog & pony show will keep me there later in the day than is my norm.  Since walking that hard floor tends to give me an aching back, I might actually show up a little later in the morning; I typically don't need a full day to take in the events, gadgets & gizmo's I'm interested in.  Mainly I go to Copia to B.S. with the QJ crowd and plan possible rendezvous's in one of the parks.

I used to tell myself, "I'm not going to Copia this year because it's so much of the same thing every time."  While that statement is partly true, my way of thinking about it has evolved a bit. For one, I find I LIKE the "so much of the same thing" aspect.  There's a certain reassurance in the ritual.  For me, it sort of feels like I am touching first base en route to the canoe trips that wait for me a little further along the base path.  Also, every year I've found there are at least a few surprises... usually good & memorable ones.

I expect this year will be no exception.  I am looking forward to visiting with folks and having a good time.

Jimbo   

I go with my wife and we don't even stay together as our interests vary.  If you wear a shirt or something that identified that you are with QJ, someone will say hi to you.  I find it easier to eat at the show rather walking to a local eatery.

Westwood, I hope you're planning to join us at the motel again this year. It's fun getting together and swapping a few tales.

We also hope you guys will consume your share of the pizza and BBQ.

Tom,

Too funny! I understand you envisioning that scenario. I will pm you my cell. We'll connect.