So, I know this is my club/site and all, but I'm having some domestic issues over my travels and lack of vacation time from work because of all my club related travel.

Would it be impossible to have a Gathering if I wasn't there?

If it's anywhere near me I'm here for ya's.

Well now....it just wouldn't be the same...
We are not planning on going to the '09 shin-dig anyway, so I'll have to defer to the ones that are planning to go...

That's a bummer, you finaly will be able to drive to one and now you can't go. Hey you gotta do what you need to keep the family happy. I'm sure we can work things out. Maybe everyone on the way to the gathering can swing by your house and stage a protest, "LET OUR LEADER GO!"

I would hope that you would be able to attend if it is held close to home. If not, I imagine that a volunteer(s) would step up to the plate to help you out.     Especially with as much advanced planning time that is available and with your help, aide, and guidance.

While we would definitely miss you if you can't make it, "ya gotta do what ya gotta do". As someone once said, though, "the show must go on". I think most of us really look forward to these annual get togethers - to renew old friendships and make new ones. I'm sure we can pull this together, once a location is chosen.

If you appoint someone to keep the group in line and go over everything you wanted to go over i am sure it would be fine.  Look around and see if there is someone that could help out and be a leader for the group if only for the gathering.

Adam,

C'mon now, It is early. Ya had ta fly inta the springs last year an rent a family car. This year you could drive the vette an bring the family. Philly is not far from up-state central New York. BUT if things go awrey, I vote a hardy go getter like  "DWRIGHT" to emcee the show.  Ladies are first and foremost, so spend some time with her. 

Which part of the country is is slated for in '09? Maybe if it isn't too far from you, you'd be able to be there for part of the time.