Steve Castledine 22 September 2008 10:20:23 GMT
I was at UKLUG last Thursday and Friday in central London, and had a great time. To put on yet another event like this "for free" is just incredible and Warren Elsmore cannot be praised enough for it (together with the team of people helping him out).
Some points of interest:
1) Turnout was very good, although it would have been polite for a few of the non showers to let the organisers know. "Free" maybe a little misleading as it costs someone, somewhere and sponsors "sponsor" on the promise of x number of people, and food per head - well costs per head.
2) Food was great. I heard at least 178 people say it was loads better than ILUG.
3) Venue was great (
Church House). Even an American tourist could find there way to it (go to Westminster Abbey near Big Ben - turn left through the arch). The layout was perfect for the sponsors - I hope they got a lot out of this event.
4) I wish I had a video of a tired looking Julian Robichaux and Bill Buchan lifting and unpacking the largest TV in the world onto the reception desks only to be told "wrong floor".
5) Sessions were fantastic, I did not attend any that I did not take something away from. If I could present "half" as well as Rob Novak or Bill Buchan I would be satisfied.
6) It was great to meet some fantastic people for the first time - Ben Poole, Kerr Rainey, Stuart McIntyre, Rob Novak, Matt White - there were others but my poor memory has lost their names. You may have even met me without knowing, I probably handed you your free UKLUG bag upon registration.
7) Gurupoolza hosted by the excellent Bob Balaban.
8) Excellent drinks and company on "the boat", which was a real boat moored on the Thames (although was high and dry on a sand bank). For once I was sensible and left at 10:30pm as I had to get back to North London. Me and sensible do not normally cross paths - especially when boats, good company, and drinks are concerned.
9) I wish I had presented. From getting to know the audience I knew that sessions I could have done would have been useful. That was down to me not knowing whether I would be attending until after the abstracts were closed (us developers have to pay our own way for these things). Next year I promise to make the effort (Warren you can hold me to that).
10) Mr T and his A-Team van being pulled by the cops (see below).
Some Photos from my Nokia phone:
