Hi Guys:
I chatted with Philippe this morning to see if we can make
the facilities of UBC available for our May 16th to 18th meeting
and the answer is yes. So I want to offer UBC as the venue for our next face to
face. We can provide multi media equipped seminar rooms for our plenary
sessions and a number of other rooms for break-outs. In addition UBC has
excellent wireless networking coverage. We will not be able to host
refreshments or food but can make catering available. Also there are numerous
food services available on campus including…get this…a Starbucks
located right in our facility J
There are numerous hotels available for accommodation a
short drive (or taxi ride) from UBC. It also may be possible to provide some accommodation
at UBC for those who prefer not to commute. We can expect room rates between
100 to 150 dollars CDN per night. I imagine that IBM may be able to negotiate
favourable rates for accommodation. Also Vancouver
is served by a large number of air carriers (some of which are not
bankrupt and even making a profit!) and the airport is close to UBC and
downtown (about a 25 to 30 $ CDN taxi ride). I should also point out the
weather should be fairly pleasant in this time frame.
Also if we hold the face to face here in Vancouver, Philippe will be able to
participate in some of the sessions.
I know we are trying to find a point midway between the east
and west this time, but I still wanted to offer our facilities. The facilities
are available and can accommodate our group. Also consider that UBC is not a “high
security” environment and that we will be able to move about unescorted.
Also UBC is just a really nice place in the late spring.
Also consider that Vancouver
is a major tourist destination, great scenery, fabulous restaurants, and night
life. Believe it or not, there will still be skiing up at Whistler-Blackcomb. So
perhaps bring your partner along and make it a bit of a mini vacation.
Please let me know by the end of the business day on Monday
if we will hold our next face to face (May 16th – 18th
) at UBC.
Best regards,
Steve Adolph