Port A Collection Trip July 23-25

[Kristy]

Summertime is upon us and we've been hard at work planning another great MAAST event!
It's the event you've been waiting for, so mark your calendars and start making plans for...

MAAST Port Aransas
Collection Trip
July 23 - July 25, 2010


This weekend will be packed with great activities, including:


Bonfire on the beach

Texas State Aquarium Tour

Gulf Coast boat cruise w/ dolphin watch and lighthouse views

Featured guest speaker: James Wiseman on "How Scuba Diving Has Changed My Aquarium"

Great raffle prizes

Specimen collection along jetties

Beachside BBQ dinner

Kayak trip

All MAAST members are invited as well as members of our sister reef clubs around Texas: ARC, DMAS, DFWMAS, MARSH, and RSF.



Accomodations:


Plantation Suites
http://www.plantationsuites.com/ (http://www.plantationsuites.com/)
Plantation Suites
1909 State Highway 361
Port A
877-836-FUNN or 361-749-3866


$149 per night - let them know you are with the MAAST group when making reservations.


All rooms would be the same rate, this includes:
Double queen with queen pullout – up to 6 people
King with queen pullout – up to 4 people


All rooms are non smoking unless smoking room is requested at time of making reservation
On premises: pool, spa, sand v-ball courts, bbq pits
Free continental breakfast every morning with at least one hot item
Rooms would be held until 2 weeks prior to event - after cutoff, rate stays the same, but rooms are subject to availability


As promised... more details about the MAAST Port Aransas Collection Trip!


Saturday Evening Catered BBQ Dinner / Featured Speaker
5:30 - 7:30 in Plantation Suites conference room
$10 / person (children 10 and under free)
MAAST charter members with one guest free


Saturday Afternoon Boat Cruise
Dolphin Watch boat tour of the Coastal area, to the lighthouse, and around the bay.
$12 / person
MAAST Charter members $6
Children 3 and under FREE

Saturday morning Texas State Aquarium tour
Guided tour through Texas State Aquarium with additional half hour option of a behind-the-scenes tour of the inner workings of their system. Children 2 and under are free.
Basic tour only:
$8.50 / children age 3 - 12; $13.00 / adults (13 years +)
Tour including behind-the-scenes:
$11.00 / children age 3 - 12 ; $15.50 / adults (13 years +); $13.00 / MAAST Charter members

Sunday morning Lighthouse Kayak trip
Kayak rental costs TBA

Also join us for
Friday night bonfire on beach
Saturday night collection trip along jetties

Reminder: reserve your room at the Plantation Suites if you want to take advantage of the discounted group rate! 877-836-FUNN (mention MAAST group)

[The Butcher]

Yes, Finally!!!!!!!!:bigsmile::bigsmile::bigsmile:

[half hour]

Is this the bigbird trip?

[Pennies2Cents]

Hi Welcome to MAAST! :)


Is this the bigbird trip?

Yes/Was, but now it will be known as the MAAST PORT A COLLECTION TRIP. :):thumbs_up:

[roscozman]

We're there!!

[hobogato]

added hotel information.

also, please dont forget to rsvp on the event listing below:

http://www.maast.org/calendar.php?do=getinfo&e=26&c=1

[markmesquite]

Do we have a Speaker in mind?

[kkiel02]

I'm in. So the room rate given above is for the rooms listed below or are the queen rooms different?

[hobogato]

all rooms are the same rate.

[hobogato]

yes, we do - awaiting final confirmation before posting about that :wink_smile:


Do we have a Speaker in mind?

[funkyseamonkey]

I see the room rate but does anyone know how much the other stuff will be? so that we can get a total price for the trip? Also do we have to stay in this hotel? I have family up there and I was wondering If I could stay with them.

[hobogato]

you definitely do not have to stay at the hotel to participate.

each event will cost around $10 a person, some are a little more, some are a little less. all of the specific prices will be posted in the original announcement very soon.

[BSJF]

Do we make our own reservations at the hotel, if so what code do we use.

[hobogato]

yes, when you call, just tell them you are with the MAAST group.

[Neptune@gabesfish]

We are in ..

[jrsatx20]

willing
yes, we do - awaiting final confirmation before posting about that :wink_smile:

K I will do it.

[hobogato]

lol

[Ichthy]

oooooooo I cant wait!!! count me in!!

[g-ray]

I am in!

[g-ray]

wouldnt miss this

[Neptune@gabesfish]

Anyone willing to bet on this one..HAHA

[greatwhite@AlamoAquatics]

only if i get 100 - 1 odds ....lol

[Kristy]

MAAST is excited to announce our guest speaker for this special event will be:

James Wiseman
presenting
"How Scuba Diving Has Changed My Aquarium"
including examples of his impressive reef photography to tell the story.

James is an expert on underwater photography and a resident of the Houston Gulf Coast area who regularly collects critters from our coastal waters. This is going to be a great addition to our weekend!

[cowboy572]

Chevy and I will be there. We will be camping on the beach again. I might need a dog sitter for her if I go to the aquarium this year.

[Kristy]

MAAST is pleased to announce our featured guest speaker for the weekend...
James Wiseman, presenting
"How Scuba Diving Has Changed My Aquarium"
including examples of his impressive reef photography to tell the story.


Saturday Evening Catered BBQ Dinner / Featured Speaker
5:30 - 7:30 in Plantation Suites conference room
$10 / person (children 10 and under free)
MAAST charter members with one guest free


Saturday Afternoon Boat Cruise
Dolphin Watch boat tour of the Coastal area, to the lighthouse, and around the bay.
$12 / person
MAAST Charter members $6 / person
Children 3 and under are free.
(please rsvp here in this thread so we can get a head count)

Saturday morning Texas State Aquarium tour
Guided tour through Texas State Aquarium with additional half hour option of a behind-the-scenes tour of the inner workings of their system.
Basic tour only:
$8.50 / children; $13.00 / adults
Tour including behind-the-scenes:
$11.00 / children; $15.50 / adults; $13.00 / MAAST Charter members

Sunday morning Lighthouse Kayak trip
Kayak rental costs TBA

Also join us for
Friday night bonfire on beach
Saturday night collection trip along jetties

Reminder: reserve your room at the Plantation Suites if you want to take advantage of the discounted group rate! 877-836-FUNN (mention MAAST group)

*(Updated first post, page one)*

[roscozman]

Is there a BBQ on the beach?? I saw someone post about a BBQ on the beach and was worried about sand in their food??

[Kristy]

No, not at all. Sorry about the confusion, misinformation...

The BBQ dinner will be an indoor sit-down catered meal with brisket, sausage, sides, and all the trimmings. This will be followed by our speaker's presentation. (And this is all free of charge for MAAST Charter Members and a guest!)

I'm really looking forward to this topic and to see some of his wonderful reef photography from scuba diving travels. (I know how much my thinking about reefkeeping has been transformed from the little bits of travel I have done - and that is just with some snorkeling and getting to see the LFS of different regions)!

All of this is followed by the collection trip to the jetties. Should be a wonderful weekend!

[roscozman]

Thanks for the clarification. I know Eve is going to like this presentation...

[pepper]

How do we pay for the events? Will this be pre-paid through PayPal? I hope I am not jumping the gun :)

[Kristy]

Not jumping the gun at all! :)

You should RSVP here in this thread to let us know which of these optional events you are planning to attend. We need a head count for the various activities (boat cruise, BBQ dinner, Texas State Aquarium tour, etc.) Then you may paypal the appropriate amount to treasurer@maast.org or mail a check to:
MAAST Treasurer
P. O. Box 780582
San Antonio, TX 78278

Sherri will confirm receipt of payment. Be sure to include your real name and MAAST user name with the paypal and post here what events you are paying for! Reservations and payment are needed by July 10.

[Pennies2Cents]

Most Definitely! :) Luving it already! :) Great Job, Kristy, & Events Committee as well as the BOD for planning such an eventful weekend... I cant wait!

[pepper]

RSVP:


Saturday Evening Catered BBQ Dinner / Featured Speaker
5:30 - 7:30 in Plantation Suites conference room
$10 / person (children 10 and under free)
MAAST charter members with one guest free
Attending: TXMike (Michael), Pepper, and 1-8 year old (Noah)
Total: $0.00

Saturday Afternoon Boat Cruise
Dolphin Watch boat tour of the Coastal area, to the lighthouse, and around the bay.
$12 / person; MAAST Charter members $6 / person
Attending: TXMike (Michael), Pepper, and 1-8 year old (Noah)
Total: $24.00
Saturday morning Texas State Aquarium tour
Guided tour through Texas State Aquarium with additional half hour option of a behind-the-scenes tour of the inner workings of their system.
Basic tour only:
$8.50 / children; $13.00 / adults
Tour including behind-the-scenes:
$11.00 / children; $15.50 / adults; $13.00 / MAAST Charter members
Attending behind the scenes: TXMike (Michael), Pepper, and 1-8 year old (Noah)
Total $37.00

Also join us for
Friday night bonfire on beach Attending: TXMike (Michael), Pepper, and 1-8 year old (Noah)

Saturday night collection trip along jetties Attending: TXMike (Michael), Pepper, and 1-8 year old (Noah)

Total Due: $61.00

Please correct me on the total if I got something wrong. I'll send my payment once I get confirmation on the total. We are sooooo excited about this trip! Thanks to everyone who put it together!

[Kristy]

Hi Pepper,
Ok, I may need to go back and space the pricing differently so that it is more clear. It looks like txmike is a Charter Member and you are a web member... so here would be the breakdown:

Dinner: one CM, one guest, one child FREE
Boat cruise: one CM ($6), one adult ($12), and one child ($12)
Behind the scenes TSA tour: one CM ($13), one adult ($15.50), one child ($11) = $39.50
TOTAL $69.50

Sorry, the CM discount is only for the Charter member themselves for the boat cruise and the aquarium tour. Children are only discounted for the boat cruise under age 3 (3 and under are free).

[pepper]

I just became a charter member yesterday. I can even see the Charter Member for Sale stuff already. I figured by July I should have my card. So did I get the totals right?

[Kristy]

Oops... sorry Pepper! I did not realize you were now a Charter. I'm sure your profile will be updated in the next day or so! Thanks for supporting MAAST with your charter membership.

In that case, you are correct, your total is $61.00 (with these discounts, it's a good time to charter up!)

[pepper]

That was definitely a bonus. Payment will be made shortly. Thanks, Kristy!

[Kristy]

Okay, I will RSVP for Mike and myself:

BBQ / Speaker: 2 CM = FREE
Boat cruise: 2 CM @ $6 ea = $12
Tx St Aq behind the scenes tour: 2 CM @ $13 ea = $26
TOTAL = $38.00

Paypal sent! :)

[pepper]

Just sent our payment. Thanks!

[Sherri]

I just became a charter member yesterday. I can even see the Charter Member for Sale stuff already. I figured by July I should have my card. So did I get the totals right?

pepper....rec'd your PayPal for both your new Charter Membership and for Port A Trip. It may take a couple of days to get your status updated to Charter. Thank you!!

[Sherri]

MEMBERS PLEASE NOTE:

If sending in payment for any of the Port A Trip events - please post as to what payment is being applied toward. I will confirm here in this thread. I will also be posting a full paid list in this thread and add to it as payments are received. Thanks!

[BSJF]

BBQ / Speaker: 2 CM = FREE
Boat cruise: 1 CM @ $6 / 1 Adult $12 = $18
Tx St Aq behind the scenes tour: 1 CM @ $13 / 1 Adult $15.50 = $28.50
TOTAL = $46.50

Paid 6/13/2010 by PayPal

[Still Learning]

Do you have the start time and duration or the TSA and boat tour on Saturday?

[Kristy]

Yes... but there might still be some tweaking of the schedule so these are not yet set in stone. Some of the fine-tuning will depend on how many RSVP, so hope all of you will let us know what you would like to attend. Right now we are looking at:

Saturday
Texas State Aquarium tour:
Regular tour 9 - 10:30am
Behind the Scenes tour 9 - 11am

Boat cruise:
2 - 3:30pm

Hope that helps!

[Still Learning]

We are definately considering both tours and dinner. Not sure how many of us yet.

[Sherri]

BBQ / Speaker: 2 CM = FREE
Boat cruise: 1 CM @ $6 / 1 Adult $12 = $18
Tx St Aq behind the scenes tour: 1 CM @ $13 / 1 Adult $15.50 = $28.50
TOTAL = $46.50

Paid 6/13/2010 by PayPal

PayPal received 6/13/2010...Thank You !

[sampsonndelila]

So is this still a go? Hotel said no one had booked a room yet? 149 dollars a night? They said they have 23 rooms still blocked for us. Did we chage hotels?

[Kristy]

No, it's still a go! I booked our room a week or so ago and I was not the first one to book, so maybe there was just a miscommunication? I will call the hotel to double check.

Also, keep in mind that people are free to stay with friends/family, camp out on the beach, wherever they would like to stay. But we put the block of rooms together at the hotel for our convenience if we want to stay there!

[sampsonndelila]

No, good! I was worried. We love going each year. Just wanted to make sure.

[Sherita]

Sounds like fun! I'm in. I paid for my charter membership, but it hasn't shown up on here yet. Here's my RSVP

Saturday Evening Catered BBQ Dinner / Featured Speaker
5:30 - 7:30 in Plantation Suites conference room
$10 / person (children 10 and under free)
MAAST charter members with one guest free - Sherita (CM), Pat (guest) $0.00

Saturday morning Texas State Aquarium tour
Guided tour through Texas State Aquarium with additional half hour option of a behind-the-scenes tour of the inner workings of their system.
Basic tour only:
$8.50 / children; $13.00 / adults
Tour including behind-the-scenes:
$11.00 / children; $15.50 / adults; $13.00 / MAAST Charter members
Sherita (CM), Pat (non-member) - $28.50


Also join us for
Friday night bonfire on beach - Sherita (CM), Pat
Saturday night collection trip along jetties - Sherita (CM), Pat

So, if I figured this right, my total is $28.50? Let me know if this is correct and I will get it out on paypal.

Sherita

[Sherri]

Sounds like fun! I'm in. I paid for my charter membership, but it hasn't shown up on here yet. Here's my RSVP

Saturday Evening Catered BBQ Dinner / Featured Speaker
5:30 - 7:30 in Plantation Suites conference room
$10 / person (children 10 and under free)
MAAST charter members with one guest free - Sherita (CM), Pat (guest) $0.00

Saturday morning Texas State Aquarium tour
Guided tour through Texas State Aquarium with additional half hour option of a behind-the-scenes tour of the inner workings of their system.
Basic tour only:
$8.50 / children; $13.00 / adults
Tour including behind-the-scenes:
$11.00 / children; $15.50 / adults; $13.00 / MAAST Charter members
Sherita (CM), Pat (non-member) - $28.50


Also join us for
Friday night bonfire on beach - Sherita (CM), Pat
Saturday night collection trip along jetties - Sherita (CM), Pat

So, if I figured this right, my total is $28.50? Let me know if this is correct and I will get it out on paypal.

Sherita

Sherita - you are now upgraded to Charter Member - welcome btw! And I did receive your PayPal for $28.50...thank you.

[clay]

Just thought yall would like to know that Gary P. Nunn will be playing at the back pourch that saturday in case any of ya like texas country music. The Back pourch is on the harbor next to where the boat trips will probally leave from(not sure which boat yall are using)

[hobogato]

ok, this event is coming up soon and there are still many rooms available. please be sure to make your reservations with plantation suites asap if you will be staying there. also, please dont forget to rsvp on the meeting announcement linked in the home page.

[Still Learning]

Saturday Evening Catered BBQ Dinner / Featured Speaker
5:30 - 7:30 in Plantation Suites conference room
$10 / person (children 10 and under free)
MAAST charter members with one guest free

[FONT=Book Antiqua]Saturday Afternoon Boat Cruise
Dolphin Watch boat tour of the Coastal area, to the lighthouse, and around the bay.
$12 / person
MAAST Charter members $6
Children 3 and under FREE

Saturday morning Texas State Aquarium tour
Guided tour through Texas State Aquarium with additional half hour option of a behind-the-scenes tour of the inner workings of their system.
Basic tour only:
$8.50 / children; $13.00 / adults
Tour including behind-the-scenes:
$11.00 / children; $15.50 / adults; $13.00 / MAAST Charter members

We are thinking about coming but not sure on what the price would end up being. I figured it to be 80.50 for me a charter member, my 15 yr old child, my 5 yr old child, and my 1 yr old child. We were looking at the dinner, the dolphin tour, and behind the scenes of TSA. Let me know if that is correct. Wasn't sure what TSA considers a child and if a 1 yr old costs $11.

Tks

[jrsatx20]

as of now just the BBQ for me. The aquarium is up in the air.

[ZeroHour]

Could I come out and meet and greet just for the night of collection"?

[hobogato]

Could I come out and meet and greet just for the night of collection"?

absolutely! look forward to meeting you :)

[ZeroHour]

Time and local for this would be great. Meaning where should I meet and what time for the collection. Never done this dont even know what I should bring. In fact since im new to Texas I never had even considered this as an idea lol

[jrsatx20]

Small holed net from walmart. Broom handle and duct tape the net to broom handle. Aerator to keep specimens alive small ice chest or something with a lid to carry specimens in. Head light led from Walmart the one with red led and white led. Red led used to not scare specimens away. Usually head out about sun down.

[ZeroHour]

Okay I am planning to attend the collection in the evening is the meal before this? If so maybe I can attempt to make that work as well.

[Sherita]

For those of us who have not been on a collection trip, would anyone be so kind as to give a quick rundown of what we should bring? Looking forward to this, I really need a break.

Sherita

[jrsatx20]

Two posts up is a small list of the main things

[Sherri]

I will be using this post to confirm all payments & reservations received - if you are not on this list and have made payment, please PM me. Thank you! Sherri




Saturday Evening Catered BBQ Dinner / Featured Speaker
5:30 - 7:30 in Plantation Suites conference room
$10 / person (children 10 and under free)
MAAST charter members with one guest free


Kristy (CM) N/C
Mike (CM) N/C
BSJF (CM) N/C
+ 1 guest N/C
Sherita (CM) N/C
+ 1 guest (Pat) N/C
Pepper (CM) N/C
TxMike (CM) N/C
+ 1 guest (Noah) 8 yr old N/C
jrsatx20 (CM) N/C
dradrenaline (WM) + 4 guests $50 PAID
rozcosman (CM) N/C
Pennies2Cents (CM) N/C
ZeroHour (WM) $10.00
hobogato (CM) N/C
checkerkitty (CM) N/C
+ Zach (7 yr old) N/C
+ Alex (3 yr old) N/C
Cowboy572 (CM) N/C
+ Chevy (MAAST Mascot) N/C :o))
jpond83 (CM) N/C
jpond0406 (CM) N/C
+ 6 yr old N/C
+ 3 yr old N/C
Joe31 (CM) N/C
+ 1 guest N/C



Saturday Afternoon Boat Cruise

Dolphin Watch boat tour of the Coastal area, to the lighthouse, and around the bay.
$12 / person
MAAST Charter members $6
Children 3 and under FREE

Kristy (CM) $6.00 PAID
Mike (CM) $6.00 PAID
BSJF (CM) $6.00 PAID
+ Adult Guest $12.00 PAID
Pepper (CM) $6.00 PAID
TxMike (CM) $6.00 PAID
Noah (8 yr old) $12.00 PAID
rozcosman (CM)$6.00 PAID
Pennies2cents (CM) $6.00 PAID
hobogato (CM) $6.00 PAID
checkerkitty (CM) $6.00 PAID
+ Zach (7 yr old) $12.00 PAID
+ Alex (3 yr old) N/C



Saturday morning Texas State Aquarium tour
Guided tour through Texas State Aquarium with additional half hour option of a behind-the-scenes tour of the inner workings of their system.
Basic tour only:
$8.50 / children; $13.00 / adults
Tour including behind-the-scenes:
$11.00 / children; $15.50 / adults; $13.00 / MAAST Charter members

Kristy (CM) $13.00 PAID (Behind Scenes)
Mike (CM) $13.00 PAID (Behind Scenes)
BSJF (CM) $13.00 PAID (Behind Scenes)
+ 1 Adult guest $15.50 PAID (Behind Scenes)
Sherita (CM) $13.00 PAID (Behind Scenes)
+ 1 guest (Pat) $15.50 PAID (Behind Scenes)
Pepper (CM) $13.00 PAID (Behind Scenes)
TxMike (CM) $13.00 PAID (Behind Scenes)
Noah (8 yr old) $11.00 PAID (Behind Scenes)
Cowboy572 (CM) $13.00 PAID (Behind Scenes)
kkiel02 (CM) $13.00 PAID (Behind Scenes)
+ 5 guests @ $15.50 ea. $77.50 PAID (Behind Scenes)
hobogato (CM) $13.00 PAID (Behind Scenes)
checkerkitty (CM) $13.00 PAID (Behind Scenes)
+ Zach (7 yr old) $11.00 PAID (Behind Scenes)
+ Alex (3 yr old) $11.00 PAID (Behind Scenes)
jpond83 (CM) $13.00 PAID (Behind Scenes)
jpond0406 (CM) $13.00 PAID (Behind Scenes)
+ 6 yr old $11.00 PAID (Behind Scenes)
+ 3 yr old $11.00 PAID (Behind Scenes)



Sunday morning Lighthouse Kayak trip
Kayak rental costs TBA

Also join us for
Friday night bonfire on beach
Saturday night collection trip along jetties

Reminder: reserve your room at the Plantation Suites if you want to take advantage of the discounted group rate! 877-836-FUNN (mention MAAST group)

[Sherri]

We are thinking about coming but not sure on what the price would end up being. I figured it to be 80.50 for me a charter member, my 15 yr old child, my 5 yr old child, and my 1 yr old child. We were looking at the dinner, the dolphin tour, and behind the scenes of TSA. Let me know if that is correct. Wasn't sure what TSA considers a child and if a 1 yr old costs $11.

Tks

Kristy should know about the age situatuon with the children for the Aquarium tour. Sure she will chime in...or I will find out. This is how I see it - we'll get answer on ages of children for Aquarium (Behind the Scenes Tour)...

BBQ/Speaker:

Still Learning (CM) N/C
15 yr old (guest) N/C
5 yr old (10 & under) N/C
1 yr old (10 & undr) N/C

Dolphin Watch Boat Tour:

Still Learning (CM) $6.00
15 yr old $12.00
5 yr old $12.00
1 yr old N/C

Aquarium Behind Scenes Tour:

Still Learning (CM) $13.00
15 yr old $11.00
5 yr old $11.00 ????????
1 yr old $11.00 ????????

$54.00 PLUS whatever children ratings at Aquarium Tour....hope this helps.

[roscozman]

Sherri,

Here is what Eve and I will RSVP to:


Saturday Evening Catered BBQ Dinner / Featured Speaker
MAAST charter members - 2 (Ross & Eve)

Saturday Afternoon Boat Cruise
MAAST Charter members $6 -2 (Ross & Eve)

Also join us for
Friday night bonfire on beach - 2 (Ross & Eve)
Saturday night collection trip along jetties 2 (Ross & Eve)

Total - $12.00

Will send PayPal to treasurer@maast.org this afternoon.

Thanks.

[Kristy]

Sorry guys - been working long hours and missed this question. Children 2 and under are free for the Aquarium tour. I will go back and update the post with costs to reflect this info.

[Sherri]

Thanks Ross...will confirm when rec'd...

and thanks Kristy...knew you would chime in! :bigsmile:

[cowboy572]

Sherri,

Here is what I will RSVP to:

Aquariu tour - 13.00

Saturday Evening Catered BBQ Dinner / Featured Speaker
MAAST charter members -1

Friday night bonfire on beach - 2 (Jarrod and Chevy)
Saturday night collection trip along jetties 2 (Jarrod and Chevy)

Total - $13.00

Will send PayPal to treasurer@maast.org this Fri afternoon.

Thanks.

PS - Still looking for a possible pet sitter for Chevy on Sat. Also after the aquarium tour I plan on going to the USS Lexington if anyone wants to join me.

[justahobby]

Am I right to assume you are supposed to have a fishing license for collecting?

[ZeroHour]

Okay heres my RSVP

ZeroHour
(Chris Dombkowski)
BBq/Speaker: 1
Collection trip

Saturday

[cowboy572]

Justin, Yes all you need is a basic saltwater license.

[justahobby]

Thanks

[Still Learning]

BBQ/Speaker:

Still Learning (CM) N/C
15 yr old (guest) N/C
5 yr old (10 & under) N/C
1 yr old (10 & undr) N/C

Dolphin Watch Boat Tour:

Still Learning (CM) $6.00
15 yr old $12.00
5 yr old $12.00
1 yr old N/C

Aquarium Behind Scenes Tour:

Still Learning (CM) $13.00
15 yr old $11.00
5 yr old $11.00 ????????
1 yr old $11.00 ????????

$54.00 PLUS whatever children ratings at Aquarium Tour....hope this helps.

$65 it is then.

[Kristy]

There are still quite a few people who have indicated that they plan to attend but who have not yet RSVP'd and made their arrangments.

We need to send in final reservation numbers for the Boat Cruise and for the TX State Aquarium tour, so please RSVP here immediately and send in your money by the end of this week if you plan to join us for those activities.

[BSJF]

Kristy, have you sent them a PM too? Sometimes messages in the threads aren't real obvious. See ya'll soon!

[hobogato]

just a heads up -

we have passed the deadline for the hotel to hold rooms for us. all unreserved rooms have been taken off of our block and can be sold to people who are not in our group. however, if you still wish to make reservations, they will still give you our group rate if you specify that you are part of our group.

[Europhyllia]

I'll be missing out on this. Dates overlap with a TDY assignment :(
Will be sure to join next year! the boat excursion sounds cool

[kkiel02]

Sorry I was out of town this weekend and my parents just got back from Alaska Friday. Been busy to say the least. We would like to do the Texas State Aquarium tour if we still are able. There will be 6 of us one-me(charter) and 5 noncharter. Which totals to $90.50 correct?

I dont think we can make the other events though as my cousin is getting married in Rockport Sat night and my tank should be delivered that weekend also.

[Sherri]

As of today....7/13/10 - all payments that have been received are posted....

[Still Learning]

Hubby just informed me of the following:

Texas Coastal Expo 2010 (http://www.cechouston.org/index.php/2010/06/22/texas-coastal-expo-2010/)
Title: Texas Coastal Expo 2010
Location: grounds outside the Texas State Aquarium
The Texas Coastal Expo is a free, family event with an anticipated attendance between 4,000 and 7,000.

Not sure we are up to facing the crowd.

[Sherri]

Sherri,

Here is what I will RSVP to:

Aquariu tour - 13.00

Saturday Evening Catered BBQ Dinner / Featured Speaker
MAAST charter members -1

Friday night bonfire on beach - 2 (Jarrod and Chevy)
Saturday night collection trip along jetties 2 (Jarrod and Chevy)

Total - $13.00

Will send PayPal to treasurer@maast.org this Fri afternoon.

Thanks.

PS - Still looking for a possible pet sitter for Chevy on Sat. Also after the aquarium tour I plan on going to the USS Lexington if anyone wants to join me.

Received PayPal....will update list tomorrow (Friday) - thanks!

[Sherri]

Sorry I was out of town this weekend and my parents just got back from Alaska Friday. Been busy to say the least. We would like to do the Texas State Aquarium tour if we still are able. There will be 6 of us one-me(charter) and 5 noncharter. Which totals to $90.50 correct?

I dont think we can make the other events though as my cousin is getting married in Rockport Sat night and my tank should be delivered that weekend also.

Rec'd PayPal...will update list tomorrow - thank you!

[hobogato]

ok, here is what i am sending payment for:

BBQ/Speaker:

hobogato(CM) N/C
zach (7 yr. old) - free
checkerkitty(CM) N/C
alex(3 yr. old) - free

Dolphin Watch Boat Tour:

hobogato(CM) $6.00
checkerkitty(CM) $6.00
7 yr old $12.00
3 yr old free


Aquarium Behind Scenes Tour:

hobogato (CM) $13.00
checkerkitty (CM) $13.00
7 yr old $11.00
3 yr old $11.00

total: $72

[Sherri]

ok, here is what i am sending payment for:

BBQ/Speaker:

hobogato(CM) N/C
zach (7 yr. old) - free
checkerkitty(CM) N/C
alex(3 yr. old) - free

Dolphin Watch Boat Tour:

hobogato(CM) $6.00
checkerkitty(CM) $6.00
7 yr old $12.00
3 yr old free


Aquarium Behind Scenes Tour:

hobogato (CM) $13.00
checkerkitty (CM) $13.00
7 yr old $11.00
3 yr old $11.00

total: $72

Rec'd PayPal Ace - processing....thanks!

[Sherri]

Kristy...had a member ask:

What time should they arrive at Hotel for BBQ/Speaker?

Is there a Jettie Dive after BBQ/Speaker? I believe this is the Collection on the Jetties....not dive.

[Sherri]

Sorry I was out of town this weekend and my parents just got back from Alaska Friday. Been busy to say the least. We would like to do the Texas State Aquarium tour if we still are able. There will be 6 of us one-me(charter) and 5 noncharter. Which totals to $90.50 correct?

I dont think we can make the other events though as my cousin is getting married in Rockport Sat night and my tank should be delivered that weekend also.

Got your PayPal...adding you to list...thanks!

[Sherri]

OK everyone - Attendance/Paid list is updated on Page 7 of this thread...please check to make sure you are on this list IF you have plans on attending and/or have paid....if you are NOT on this list and should be....please PM me as this is up to date as far as what info I have received as of today (Sunday the 18th)

Thank you! :bigsmile:

[pepper]

Is there any additional information available on the bon fire and dolphin tour? Just wondering where we need to go. We aren't staying at a hotel in Port Aransas and would like to be able to look up directions for the boat tour and get an idea of where the bon fire will be. Thanks!

[Kristy]

Hi Pepper and all other Port A adventurers-

The day is almost here. Getting excited about this weekend!

For the boat tour, you should plan on meeting us at the Woody Sport Center at 1:30 on Saturday (136 W. Cotter Port Aransas, TX 78373). Have to get you more info for the Friday night bonfire, but a backup plan could be to meet us around 8pm at the lobby of the Plantation Suites hotel and we could go together.

[cowboy572]

Can I ask, and I know it's silly, do the members that are going on the collection trip Sat. night know what to bring with them? From reading the posts it seems nothing has been brought up about this. Like I said, just curious. I see a lot of new members going this year and no mention of equipment or license to bring with them.

[Kristy]

Yeah, post what you are planning to bring. That would be really helpful! (And also where you can find one like it in case people don't know).

[jrsatx20]

I believe I had posted a brief inventory earlier in the thread. Might be flying solo on this one. So may be driving up there on sat. N e body want to share the gas. Lmk

[cowboy572]

Here's some stuff to get you started...

-SW Fishing License! - You can go yearly, day to day, under 17 - no license needed.
-Bucket or 2 - you can go Homer buckets or use clean salt bucket you have laying around. Lid is prefered.
-Battery-operated air pump - Picked up at Wally World pretty cheap.
-Fish net with long handle - Long Handle is prefered, but for some of the pools a short handle works well. pvc pipe makes a good extention.
-Decent shoes for walking along slippery jetties - a must!
- A head or hat mounted led light with both red and white leds, or just a red led light. Plus a flash light doesn't hurt. The critters can not see the red light spectrum.
-Cooler/beverages - Plenty of water - The jetties are quite the hike. Ask the MAAST mascot.
-Beach Chairs - Are optional.

Just remember what you take out there you are responisble for. Leave nothing behind.

[BIGBIRD123]

....be sure to take a real flashlight to find your way back....:)

[Bill S]

OK, we are finally nailing this down. We have some boat issues that need our attention this weekend. Therefore, we will NOT be going to Port A with the boat, however, we WILL be there on Saturday night:

Bill & Jan for dinner.

Also, if there are any folks interested, we would be happy to entertain anyone that would like to go sailing on Sunday afternoon, from Corpus Christi City Marina on our 47' sailboat "Merlin".
http://sailboatdata.com/viewrecord.asp?class_ID=2810

If you are going on the kayak trip, we can arrange for this to happen AFTER the trip. We would plan on about 2 hours - but we are very flexible.

[jpond83]

is it mandatory to stay in that hotel?

[cowboy572]

No, you can stay where you want. For me, I will be camping on the beach again. I will be at the IB Magee Beach Park. Which is a stones throw from the bonfire and the jetty where we will be collecting.

[Sherita]

ok, since we are getting close to the wire....can someone tell me where the bonfire is going to be? Close to the jetties? And what time do we need to be at the Texas State Aquarium? Thanks. Sherita

[Kristy]

Hi Sherita,
We will be sending out an itinerary for the weekend with more details. Stay tuned for that.

I can tell you off the top of my head that the Texas State Aquarium tour starts at 9:00am (which is what time they open) so arriving just a few minutes prior to that should be perfect.

[jpond83]

I would also like to know if i can pay my charter membership now and still get the discount for the events?

[Sherri]

I would also like to know if i can pay my charter membership now and still get the discount for the events?









YES, you can - just PM me and let me know when you send payment (PayPal?) so I can watch for it...once I receive..will post in thread. Just be sure to include either on PayPal payment or PM sent to me what payment is covering...thanks! If you want, I can make up your membership card and have it taken down so you can pick up if you want...LMK Sherri

[Bill S]

YES, you can - just PM me and let me know when you send payment (PayPal?) so I can watch for it...once I receive..will post in thread. Just be sure to include either on PayPal payment or PM sent to me what payment is covering...thanks! If you want, I can make up your membership card and have it taken down so you can pick up if you want...LMK Sherri

What a steal. A membership gives you 2 free dinners...

[jpond83]

cool making payments tonight. What kind of creatures could i expect to find on the collection? Im staying in a tent alsoi so i dont know if i have to worry about my buckets overheating.

[jpond83]

Just made my payment. My wife, 2 kids (3 and 6), and myself will be attending the aquarium, BBQ, and collection trip. looking forward to meeting anyone i haven't met yet.

[Sherri]

Just made my payment. My wife, 2 kids (3 and 6), and myself will be attending the aquarium, BBQ, and collection trip. looking forward to meeting anyone i haven't met yet.

Rec'd your PayPal....sending you a PM needing info....thanks! Sherri

[ZeroHour]

Where do I send payment for the dinner?

[hobogato]

treasurer@maast.org is the paypal addy

[roscozman]

Sherri,

Here is what Eve and I will RSVP to:


Saturday Evening Catered BBQ Dinner / Featured Speaker
MAAST charter members - 2 (Ross & Eve)

Saturday Afternoon Boat Cruise
MAAST Charter members $6 -2 (Ross & Eve)

Also join us for
Friday night bonfire on beach - 2 (Ross & Eve)
Saturday night collection trip along jetties 2 (Ross & Eve)

Total - $12.00

Will send PayPal to treasurer@maast.org this afternoon.

Thanks.


I know this was later than expected, but PayPal sent.

[jpond83]

what time will the aquarium trip be at? also when and where will the collection trip be taking place?

[txav8r]

Aquarium tour is Saturday morning
Collection trip will be along the jetties.

[Sherri]

rec'd PayPal Ross..thanks! Will update thread

[jpond83]

I was shooting for a actual time because im not going to be staying int he hotel. Is the aquarium a group thing or ???

[Sherri]

I was shooting for a actual time because im not going to be staying int he hotel. Is the aquarium a group thing or ???

I can tell you off the top of my head that the Texas State Aquarium tour starts at 9:00am (which is what time they open) so arriving just a few minutes prior to that should be perfect.

Kristy posted this as an answer to another member that basically asked the same question...I'm sure if she can offer any further info, she'll chime in. :)

[Pennies2Cents]

We will be creating a flyer for everyone who attends for easier info access and such...

[jpond83]

cool thanks. what size nets should i use like the aquarium nets with a pvc extension or something larger?

[hobogato]

for collection on the jetties, the best net to use is a bait net from academy that has an aluminum tube around the outside to protect net edge as you scrape the rock.

[hobogato]

also, we will have the maast banner up at the bonfire on friday evening.

[jpond83]

cool. I have another concern. We have decided to camp out at the national park by the jetties. Does anyone have any idea of what i can do to keep the stuff i collect cool? I have thought about bringing quite a few frozen 2 liters of water and sticking them in the cooler that i will be keeping my stuff in.

[cowboy572]

Looks like we we will be dodging the rain this weekend.

[jpond83]

i just checked the weather again and it says it shouldn't rain.

[txav8r]

Aransas Pass, TX Weather

Tonight: Variably cloudy with scattered thunderstorms. Low 81F. Winds ESE at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 50%.
Tomorrow: Partly cloudy with isolated thunderstorms possible. Heat index near 105F. High 92F. Winds ESE at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of rain 30%.
Tomorrow night: Isolated thunderstorms during the evening, then skies turning partly cloudy overnight. Low 79F. Winds SE at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 30%.
Saturday: Becoming partly cloudy with isolated thunderstorms developing during the afternoon. Heat index near 105F. High 93F. Winds ESE at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 30%.
Sunday: Slight chance of a thunderstorm. Highs in the low 90s and lows in the upper 70s.
Monday: Partly cloudy, chance of a thunderstorm. Highs in the low 90s and lows in the upper 70s.

[Sherri]

OK everyone....countdown is happening....IF ANYONE ELSE plans to attend any of the events that call for payments...please confirm as a paid list is being made up in the morning (Friday AM) to be sent down to Port A for reference. Don't want to leave anyone out....again, if I have missed anyone, please let me know. Hope it is a great weekend for everyone!

[roscozman]

Aransas Pass, TX Weather

Tonight: Variably cloudy with scattered thunderstorms. Low 81F. Winds ESE at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 50%.
Tomorrow: Partly cloudy with isolated thunderstorms possible. Heat index near 105F. High 92F. Winds ESE at 15 to 25 mph. Chance of rain 30%.
Tomorrow night: Isolated thunderstorms during the evening, then skies turning partly cloudy overnight. Low 79F. Winds SE at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of rain 30%.
Saturday: Becoming partly cloudy with isolated thunderstorms developing during the afternoon. Heat index near 105F. High 93F. Winds ESE at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 30%.
Sunday: Slight chance of a thunderstorm. Highs in the low 90s and lows in the upper 70s.
Monday: Partly cloudy, chance of a thunderstorm. Highs in the low 90s and lows in the upper 70s.

Bill - Does this put an anchor in you plans for Sunday sail??

[Sherita]

Where/what time is the bonfire? We are headed out in the morning about 8. Looking forward to it.

Sherita

[hobogato]

it will be near the jetties, around dark. we will have the maast banner up so we should be pretty visible.

[jpond83]

i just made a homemade aerator cooler with a mag 5 and some pvc. Im ready. It is similar to this one http://www.instructables.com/id/Portable-Livewell/

[hobogato]

are you going to run it using a power inverter and your car?

[jpond83]

yes and i will keep it on my camp site. we got electricity there. does anyone have any ideas on keeping it cool? I was going to keep a couple frozen 2 liters to keep in it while im camping. Would this cause problems?

[jpond83]

power inverter will be just for the ride home

[jpond83]

I am trying to get a spot a nueces state park and they do not do reservations. The problem is my wife cannot get off work in enough time to make it there to get a camping site. If anyone can meet me tomorrow morning on their way out there i will give them the cash to stop by and pay for a spot for me. I could even throw in a frag. This is something my whole family is really excited about and we don't want to miss.

[Sherita]

jpond83, I should be down there by three, if that would help you any. I am staying over in Rockport, but could zip by Nueces on the way. LMK. Cell number is 325-220-1364. Will be leaving at 8 in the morning.

Sherita

[Big_Pun]

I'll be driving down with Ruben for the day only so if you need any extra hands I can help as much as I can, without having my own car

[Bill S]

"Merlin" was designed as an "around the world" cruiser. If folks want to go, we'll go. 10kts forecast for Sunday, a little light...

[Kristy]

Here are the basics for any stragglers...

PLEASE SEND ME YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS BY PM IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO RECEIVE AN ITINERARY!

Friday July 23

8:30 pm Bonfire on the Beach
Meet us in the lobby of the Plantation Suites hotel (1909 State Hwy 361 Port Aransas, TX 78373) at 8:30 if you would like to caravan to the beach bonfire site together. Or you can find us on your own by following Cotter St. down to the water. This leads you directly to the jetties where we will have the bonfire (and also the collection on Saturday night.) Look for the MAAST banner.

Saturday July 24

9:00 am Texas State Aquarium tour
Basic tour 9:00 – 10:30
Behind the scenes additional tour 11:00 – 11:30
2710 N. Shoreline Blvd Corpus Christi, Tx 78402

1:30 pm Dolphin Watch Boat Cruise (departs at 2:00)
Meet us at Woody’s Sports Center at 1:30pm to join the fun.
136 Cotter Avenue Port Aransas, TX 78373

5:30 pm BBQ Dinner with Speaker
Featuring James Wiseman, presenting
“How Scuba Diving Has Changed My Aquarium”
Plantation Suites Hotel conference room
1909 State Hwy 361 Port Aransas, TX 78373

9:00 pm Collecting on the Jetties
Meet us in the lobby of the Plantation Suites Hotel if you wish to caravan. Or, to find us on your own, follow Cotter St. to the water. This leads you directly to the jetties. Look for the MAAST banner and the reefers having a good time.

[txmike]

about to leave see yall on the other side

[roscozman]

I'll be driving down with Ruben for the day only so if you need any extra hands I can help as much as I can, without having my own car

We'll see ya out there...

[nubz]

wish the weather was better... but im still stoked.... gonna go get some porcelean crabs later on today!

[nubz]

hey, if you havent already dont bother to buy firewood for the bonfire, ive got plenty of oak and misquite for a bonfire

[BSJF]

Hey, we're here! They didn't have our hotel reservation, so if anyone hasen't left, I'd call ahead and make sure yours is reserved. Anyone know if doggies are allowed where the bonfire is going to be?

[Sherri]

Hope they fixed your reservations! Shouldn't be any prob with dogs at bonfire....?

Enjoy the weekend everyone....!

[BSJF]

Yip, reservation all fixed. Dinner was great. Resting up for fun times.

[ZeroHour]

im having a paypal issue is it possible to pay for the dinner upon arrival?

[Kristy]

Yes, we can collect at the door for the dinner or for membership also if that is what you were wanting to pay. And at this point, that would be preferable to the PayPal since there would be the possible lag time for processing.

[cbianco]

FREE 2" BLUE ACRO FRAG (FAST GROWING TOO) TO...

anyone who can get a video (got a camera phone?) of Ace (the president) dancing on the beach (beach, jettis, random pile of rocks or whatever) and put the video to Katie Perry's California Girls (or similar funny song for a guy to dance to).

Seriously! :thumbs_up:

Sorry Ace :P

Christopher :)

http://i686.photobucket.com/albums/vv229/biancochris/2010-07-25125538.jpg

[Pennies2Cents]

Just now going home. The whole weekend was a success! :) AVery special thank u to our events coordinator for putting this together. Bonfire, dolphin watch, BBQ dinner , aquarium, collecting on the jetties, (lots of peps too!) and to finish off the weekend, sailing on BStreeps sailboat it was a great! Pics up soon! :)

[cowboy572]

I wanna second that motion. A very good weekend. The bonfire, aquarium tour, collecting on the jetties, and the BBQ. Will have pics up soon of the trip also. I have one tired mascot.

[txav8r]

Catch any sargassum anglers?

Rob brought me this one a while back.

8903

[ZeroHour]

Was a great time and I am sure most everyone from the collection trip will have a nice bruise to remeber it by. As for Anglers, I dont think anyone got one. I had one that pulled in mid day fishing when i snagged a pile of weeds. I didnt feel it was fair to leave it in a bucket baking all day so I did keep it. Also had some saragassum shrimp in the clumps I snagged.

[kkiel02]

I didnt get to make the collection trip but loved the aquarium. How was the speaker? He seemed very nice at the aquarium.

[Sherita]

Had a fantastic time. All the critters made it home just fine, including the huge Molly Miller that I found at the Marina. And Zerohour, I don't know where your bruise it, but I have more than one. Man, that stuff was slick.

The gift certificate I won went to good use, got some snails and a beautiful frag of green hammer. Thanks to everyone who was so friendly to both myself and Pat. We really enjoyed it.

[Europhyllia]

You all will have to post pics of the critters you collected.
I am hoping to be able to go next year (as long as we don't add another Eurofrag to the clan -kiddos should be old enough next year to be more portable)

[Pennies2Cents]

Here's a teaser! :) Ross & I picked up over 350 peps over a 2.5 hour time period. More pics up soon! :)

http://i819.photobucket.com/albums/zz118/Pennies2Cents/DSC_0286.jpg

[Pennies2Cents]

The Dolphin Watch! :)

http://i819.photobucket.com/albums/zz118/Pennies2Cents/Dophins.jpg

[Pennies2Cents]

http://i819.photobucket.com/albums/zz118/Pennies2Cents/DSC_0194.jpg

Sailing on BStreeps Sail Boat.. :) We had a blast!

http://i819.photobucket.com/albums/zz118/Pennies2Cents/DSC_0274.jpg

[Bill S]

The number of dolphin we saw sailing was incredible. We've NEVER had so many come up to the boat and just hang out. Eve, the reflection picture is great!

[SirReal63]

It looks like a great time was had by all. My daughter, GF and I were in Corpus Sat. night but our schedule was just too tight to look anyone up. She wanted a cruise on the Capt. Clarck and to go to the aquarium, so I obliged. We saw a few peppermints and I told her the club was down here and probably had a few thousand in buckets. lol

If anyone has a couple extra...they would make a neat addition to the tank.

[Sherri]

Wonderful to hear it was a great trip for all...except for me! Had to work...really wanted to get away - sounded like it was perfect! :o))))

[Sherri]

Eve - GREAT pics! Want more!

[txmike]

Wanted to thank all who helped put this together we had a blast .

Got Protein ???

Yes that is a skimmer behind me and i am well over 6 foot tall.

http://i736.photobucket.com/albums/xx7/txmike2/DSC07991.jpg