YOU'RE INVITED! RallyPoint 2014 RPx Conference! Saturday August 16th

2014-05-17T14:13:27-04:00

Thanks to many great member suggestions and requests, RallyPoint is putting on our first ever RallyPoint Conference: RPx 2014!

RPx 2014 will take place at the Raleigh Convention Center in North Carolina on SATURDAY, August 16th. It will be an incredibly fun and engaging event with great speakers, a new product announcement, networking events, and an Awards Show with dinner. The Awards Show will be hosted by SSG Robert Burns, and the Master of Ceremonies throughout the day will be SSG Kevin McCulley, both long time RallyPoint members.

Please use this discussion thread to ask questions, suggest additional events, and recommend specific award categories for our Award Show (dinner is included). The award categories and nomination process will be announced in the coming weeks.

There is a discount for Blue Ribbon members, E-1 through E-5, and full time students. Tickets and more information are available here:

Click here for details: http://RPx.RallyPoint.com

Hope to see you there!

Response by CW3 Michael Danberry made May 17 at 2014 3:33 PM

2014-05-17T15:33:26-04:00

Interesting concept. Taking an online site and getting to meet everyone in person.

Response by SSG Robert Burns made May 17 at 2014 4:29 PM

2014-05-17T16:29:39-04:00

This is going to be awesome! Can't wait to see everyone there.

Response by SSG V. Michelle Woods made May 17 at 2014 4:43 PM

2014-05-17T16:43:09-04:00

Obviously I'll be receiving a tiara of some sort so no need to ask that question...more importantly...dress code please? :)

Lol I'm so happy this is happening!

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2014 5:02 PM

2014-05-17T17:02:52-04:00

Sir, could we incorporate a volunteer activity? For example, you could have an optional 30-minute workshop where members assemble care packages for troops overseas or write letters to deployed service members.

Response by Col Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2014 5:18 PM

2014-05-17T17:18:23-04:00

This is great, I just can't say enough good things about this idea! I'm sure that so many good things will come from this, and I really hope this will evolve into a popular and productive annual event. Having been part of a team in the past that was comprised almost entirely of geographically separated units, I can attest to the power of an annual gathering to foster teaming, and develop professional relationships... outstanding concept, I'm absolutely certain will translate to even more great things to come!

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2014 5:22 PM

2014-05-17T17:22:18-04:00

This sounds like it will be a great event.

Response by MSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2014 7:09 PM

2014-05-17T19:09:19-04:00

How fun! Wish I could but I'm saving my leave for PCS in Sept! Hope y'all take pictures!

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2014 7:14 PM

2014-05-17T19:14:44-04:00

That is a Saturday, and I will be in Augusta, GA from 21 July through 28 October. I am most definitely IN!!!!!!

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2014 7:15 PM

2014-05-17T19:15:38-04:00

I would love to go! Unfortunately end of year is right around the corner from that date and leadership most likely wouldn't let me leave. :(

Response by SSG Robert Burns made May 17 at 2014 8:24 PM

2014-05-17T20:24:42-04:00

So who's going??? Comment beneath this comment if you plan to attend.

Response by CMSgt James Nolan made May 17 at 2014 9:19 PM

2014-05-17T21:19:52-04:00

Bummer, that is a Drill Weekend that is followed by a set of orders. Won't be able to attend this one. But, it sounds like it will be successful, and thus followed by another one in the not so distant future!

Response by CPT Zachary Brooks made May 17 at 2014 11:36 PM

2014-05-17T23:36:43-04:00

How do I get my Blue Ribbon so I can get that nice discount? I read through the FAQ and put the work in on my profile. I'm motivated to have a great RP profile and network, but I cannot seem to attract the right attention for that Blue Ribbon.

Also, this sounds like fun. Glad people took my suggestion of Raleigh!

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made May 17 at 2014 11:55 PM

2014-05-17T23:55:04-04:00

Looks like I have a hubby to convince :( We've got plans to go to a Braves/Oakland As game in Atlanta on Sunday as a fathers day gift to his dad... I'm trying to convince him that we can TOTALLY go to Raleigh for Saturday, spend the night, and get on the road back to Atlanta just in time for the game to start at 1pm.... It's only a 6 hour drive...dangit... :( Maybe plane tickets instead. Will have to see.

Response by 1SG Steven Stankovich made May 18 at 2014 5:21 AM

2014-05-18T05:21:19-04:00

This looks like an awesome event and one that will surely be a lot of fun. Unfortunately I do not think I will be able to talk my command in allowing me to travel back TDY...

I look forward to "reading" all about it...

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made May 18 at 2014 6:46 AM

2014-05-18T06:46:49-04:00

Oh, I'd LOVE to go, and not far from home in Charlotte. Unfortunately, I'm deployed. Any chance of possibly streaming or web-casting it for those who can't make it?

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 18 at 2014 11:29 AM

2014-05-18T11:29:37-04:00

This Is amazing! Hopefully my command allows me to go since I did just PCS to my new Unit...

Response by 1SG Michael Blount made May 18 at 2014 12:46 PM

2014-05-18T12:46:14-04:00

I should be able to make it - not too far from home and my obligation to Ft Jackson should be done by then. What's the dress?

r,
1SG B

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made May 18 at 2014 1:17 PM

2014-05-18T13:17:37-04:00

Question: Is there any possibility that a printed program may be available? If so, will ad space be available for companies to purchase? If not something like that, will there be a way for companies or veterans orgs or donate somehow, our sponsor a particular portion of the event for name recognition? Since this site IS based on the principals of networking, what ways can veteran/military friendly companies or professional organizations be involved to help spread the word of their name and mission in case there are people in attendance who may benefit from their services?

Thanks in advance for the consideration.

Response by SGT Craig Northacker made May 18 at 2014 5:09 PM

2014-05-18T17:09:14-04:00

Sounds interesting-Let's chat as to what you are looking to accomplish and see how we might be able to assist.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 18 at 2014 10:03 PM

2014-05-18T22:03:26-04:00

Does anybody know what time it will begin and roughly what time it will end?

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made May 18 at 2014 11:45 PM

2014-05-18T23:45:46-04:00

If I am not in the field I will be there

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made May 19 at 2014 1:44 PM

2014-05-19T13:44:43-04:00

Sorry I cannot attend. I'll be in ALC.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made May 19 at 2014 4:20 PM

2014-05-19T16:20:02-04:00

I am pretty sure I will be there. I found it extremely surprising that this is in my back yard. On a side note, I grew up in California and thought casual was sandals and board shorts, glad I didn't show up in that. I am also glad it is not in uniform. I would have saluted a 1LT and a brawl would ensue for sure. Looking forward to such an event.

Response by SPC Christopher Smith made May 19 at 2014 4:29 PM

2014-05-19T16:29:34-04:00

Looking forward to going, I'll bring my own pen, I'm sure a few of the people coming are bringing me an ART 15 to sign when I show up, lol.

Response by Maj Chris Nelson made May 19 at 2014 4:45 PM

2014-05-19T16:45:42-04:00

Unfortinately, i will not be able to attend for a number of reasons, first and foremost, my duty location is NOT cheap or easy to get out of by air, too far to drive, and my co-worker is already on leave and we can't leave the 2 clinics nurse-less...... Hope everyone has a grand time!

Response by CPT Chase Sanger made May 19 at 2014 5:23 PM

2014-05-19T17:23:49-04:00

Barring any unforeseen circumstances, I will be in attendance. Excellent opportunity, and it's located only an hour away from the center of the Army universe, Fort Bragg! ATW! (I have nothing against other Army posts, I'm just partial to Fort Bragg)

Response by SGT James P. Davidson, MSM made May 19 at 2014 7:31 PM

2014-05-19T19:31:05-04:00

Right up the road from my home (okay, 20-ish miles, but who's counting?). Should be able to make it...

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made May 19 at 2014 8:31 PM

2014-05-19T20:31:38-04:00

If I was still at Bragg I would be there but I'm in MD and can't maybe next year!!! :(

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made May 20 at 2014 7:13 AM

2014-05-20T07:13:49-04:00

I will see what I can do to attend.

Reading through the comments though, many will not be able to attend for various reasons like deployed, stationed in Korea, Germany, Japan etc. Is there a plan in place to mail those individuals (if they are deserving) their "awards".

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made May 20 at 2014 10:16 AM

2014-05-20T10:16:17-04:00

That's awesome! I'm working on getting my +1 to go with me.

Response by SGT Curtis Earl made May 20 at 2014 3:02 PM

2014-05-20T15:02:30-04:00

Will there be music? I could get an Army band, a or jazz combo or DJ. Someone let me know and I'll submit the request. We could do a proper dining out with Colors posted and a grog bowl.

Response by SN Bill Turner made May 20 at 2014 4:26 PM

2014-05-20T16:26:04-04:00

Sounds like it will be a fun filled day and evening. Unfortunately I will not be attending. I already have 1 trip planned for this year and it will be in October. Going to my annual ship reunion in Deerfield,IL.
I hope that everyone that attends has a wonderful time. Maybe it will be closer next year or if it's in the same place next year maybe it will be later in the year say October as I will be travelling to Norfolk,Va in October of 2015. If the conference is going on around the time I am going to Norfolk, I could possibly do both.

Response by Maj Drew Gilchrist made May 20 at 2014 4:53 PM

2014-05-20T16:53:25-04:00

Dear RallyPoint - have you considered having veteran based non-profits attend and share information about the opportunities they provide veterans to continue serving? And speak about the transition assistance programs they provide? Having a panel of veteran's who have climbed the Corporate ladder and navigated the many pitfalls many veterans encounter on the civilian transition journey could add a lot of quality content at your meeting.

Drew Gilchrist
Sheep Dog Impact Assistance
Rogers, AR
http://www.sheepdogia.org

Response by TSgt Earl Morgan made May 20 at 2014 4:54 PM

2014-05-20T16:54:07-04:00

Well...I have no excuse not to go since it is only 22 minutes away from the house.

Response by CH (CPT) Private RallyPoint Member made May 20 at 2014 7:35 PM

2014-05-20T19:35:01-04:00

I plan to attend, we'll have to see how a certain board goes, first.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 20 at 2014 10:06 PM

2014-05-20T22:06:36-04:00

I think I plan to attend. Come say hi. Might even bring some local Cintas Partners.

If there's an employer panel, I could share some experiences, common issues in recruiting/hiring, and a better understanding of overall employment.

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 20 at 2014 10:26 PM

2014-05-20T22:26:45-04:00

Count me in and my girlfriend. I live not too far from Raleigh. I go to the Convention Center every year for the FilAm group during the International Festival.

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made May 20 at 2014 10:51 PM

2014-05-20T22:51:23-04:00

Unfortunately, I have drill that weekend.....I am going to try to do a SUTA...wish me luck!!

Response by LCpl Steve Wininger made May 20 at 2014 11:20 PM

2014-05-20T23:20:15-04:00

It all depends when move in at college is. I not only have to move my daughter in this year, but myself as well. I will know more once I find out the schools schedule.

If I can't make it, good luck and have fun to all, but hopefully I will see you there.

Response by SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member made May 20 at 2014 11:49 PM

2014-05-20T23:49:54-04:00

"Good Lord willin' and the creek don't rise"! See, I'm even working on my southern. Who knew I could be bilingual?

Response by CW2 Private RallyPoint Member made May 21 at 2014 3:59 AM

2014-05-21T03:59:26-04:00

I told you guys to have it in Hawaii. Who the hell wants to go to NC haha....

Response by SGT Thomas Sullivan made May 21 at 2014 12:15 PM

2014-05-21T12:15:03-04:00

90% sure that I will be attending, unless im on some last minute TDY.

Response by SPC Private RallyPoint Member made May 22 at 2014 11:43 AM

2014-05-22T11:43:46-04:00

Wish I could make it!! Dang deployment!!

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made May 22 at 2014 4:33 PM

2014-05-22T16:33:29-04:00

Very interesting... Will have to see if I can deconflict. It is a 7 hour drive for me but it looks like it might work.

Response by MSgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 22 at 2014 6:19 PM

2014-05-22T18:19:41-04:00

I wish I could make this, but sadly, I will be deployed during this event.

Response by CPT Chase Sanger made May 22 at 2014 11:46 PM

2014-05-22T23:46:58-04:00

Friendly tip regarding hotels for the convention: I just booked my room and saved about $50/night by shopping around. The Marriott looks like a great hotel (and it's right across the street), but it offers no military rate. The cheapest I was able to find a room for there was $149/night online. I checked the Sheraton, which is a block away, and they offer a military rate of $96/night (before taxes). Just thought that I would share this so that we all can save a little money!

Response by SSG Jeffrey Spencer made May 23 at 2014 11:53 PM

2014-05-23T23:53:23-04:00

Count me in. What are the subjects or tracks? I do a lot of public speaking, if you need.

Response by LCpl Larry Schaberg made May 26 at 2014 5:25 PM

2014-05-26T17:25:35-04:00

This definitely sounds like it would be quite an interesting event. Definitely going to look into the possibilities. I also LOVE the fact it is on a Saturday. There are so many times I can't attend an event because they are during the week.

Response by Maj Jeremy R. made May 29 at 2014 11:52 AM

2014-05-29T11:52:26-04:00

Sounds good, and great that it is in Raleigh...just a short drive. Looking forward to it.

Response by SSgt Michael Hacker made Jun 3 at 2014 11:30 PM

2014-06-03T23:30:01-04:00

Sounds like a great event, but unfortunately, it's on the other side of the country from me. Doesn't look like I'll be able to make it this year.

Response by SGT David Silva made Jun 10 at 2014 4:41 PM

2014-06-10T16:41:32-04:00

Anyone else here who lives in Raleigh that is going to make it to the conference?

Response by SFC Stephen Carden made Jun 10 at 2014 6:36 PM

2014-06-10T18:36:50-04:00

This is definitely the place for the after party- http://www.rallypointsportgrill.com They just won "best burger" in the Triangle!

Response by Capt Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 12 at 2014 9:21 AM

2014-06-12T09:21:38-04:00

Is this going to be a yearly event? If so is the location going to change? I wont be able to attend this year but would love to in the future as long as it doesn't travel to far from home....because I would love for the wife to come...but child care will also be a consideration.

Response by CPT Zachary Brooks made Jun 12 at 2014 10:16 AM

2014-06-12T10:16:31-04:00

Bought my tickets for myself and the (soon to be) Wife today. This should be a fun event!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 12 at 2014 3:45 PM

2014-06-12T15:45:34-04:00

Looking forward to meeting many of you in person at this event!

Response by 1SG Steven Stankovich made Jun 12 at 2014 5:02 PM

2014-06-12T17:02:18-04:00

Again, this is going to be an awesome venue. I hope that all members who have a ways and means to attend, take advantage and do. I wish I could be there. I look forward to the AAR and notes from the forum. Enjoy!!!

Response by SSG V. Michelle Woods made Jun 13 at 2014 7:21 PM

2014-06-13T19:21:35-04:00

I'm going to wear the biggest, poofiest, pinkest, most girliest ball gown EVER…psshhh tell me I can't wear a gown to a military ball, FINE BY ME…

lol ;)

Response by TSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 13 at 2014 7:33 PM

2014-06-13T19:33:21-04:00

My slim chances of going just went down into Mariana Trench thanks to my command getting a lot of money this fiscal year. :(

I wanted to meet General Schwartz.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 13 at 2014 8:30 PM

2014-06-13T20:30:09-04:00

Will not be attending I will be in the field at that time however I will hopefully be able to attend the next one

Response by SrA Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 17 at 2014 12:19 AM

2014-06-17T00:19:46-04:00

I'm all fired up to go reading everyone's comments. I am going to have to make room for this on my calendar...

Response by Cpl Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 17 at 2014 8:34 AM

2014-06-17T08:34:23-04:00

It would be an honor to go...but currently I am deployed forward in Afghanistan. Have fun RP members!!!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 17 at 2014 1:32 PM

2014-06-17T13:32:47-04:00

Has anyone got the tickets in their email yet?

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 17 at 2014 6:48 PM

2014-06-17T18:48:29-04:00

If I was still at Bragg I would most definatley be there...schedule is getting too tight to fit that in. -_-

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 22 at 2014 8:27 PM

2014-06-22T20:27:20-04:00

I would like to go, but unfortunately I already planned my leave back stateside two months ago, unless they overbooked my flight out of here. and a 5 day leave is out of the question. Is this event a regular? Will this happen next year? Thanks

Just curious, posted a little over a month ago, anyone have an answer?

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Jun 22 at 2014 8:45 PM

2014-06-22T20:45:37-04:00

My plans have changed and I will be in attendance.

Response by MSG Brian Breaker made Jun 28 at 2014 1:59 PM

2014-06-28T13:59:46-04:00

I plan to attend. Wondering if it's worth buying a ticket for my spouse.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 6 at 2014 5:25 PM

2014-07-06T17:25:12-04:00

Edited: Sorry, I decided to fly. Found a fare for $228 on United.

Response by 1SG Frank Rocha made Jul 6 at 2014 9:28 PM

2014-07-06T21:28:52-04:00

I will be attending my final phase of SLC at Fort Eustis, VA during this time frame. Not sure if we have weekends off or not but If I have the opportunity, and its possible for me to attend I will get tickets.

Response by PO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 7 at 2014 10:20 PM

2014-07-07T22:20:27-04:00

Edit.... nevermind..... I completely missed that my question was previously answered.

Response by PO1 Charles Cunningham made Jul 8 at 2014 1:23 PM

2014-07-08T13:23:09-04:00

I live in San Francisco, East Coast is not an option for me. Suggest, perhaps, a Skype component, or, perhaps an idea I have for a FaceTime component.
Perhaps we could set up a system where a person who is attending, could Face Time to a person who can not attend, for introductions, or event coverage. Sort of a Sponsor thing.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 9 at 2014 1:08 PM

2014-07-09T13:08:59-04:00

I unfortunately am not able to make it, would have been great though.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 9 at 2014 10:37 PM

2014-07-09T22:37:17-04:00

I am just curious as to why Raleigh was selected as the location. I assume that it is a good central location on the eastern seaboard and its proximity to Fort Bragg.

Response by SGT Ben Keen made Jul 16 at 2014 11:38 AM

2014-07-16T11:38:18-04:00

Well it looks like I'll be actually able to attend. Just trying to get the finances straight to make it.

Response by SGT Ben Keen made Jul 16 at 2014 2:56 PM

2014-07-16T14:56:16-04:00

Is anyone else flying in to the Raleigh (RDU) airport and staying at the Merriot City Center Hotel? I'm asking because I called the hotel and they don't offer shuttle service to and from the airport but they work with a transportation service called White Horse. The fee is $42 and covers 3 people and I figured I would see if anyone else is flying in to see if someone wants to go in with me. I haven't purchased my airplane ticket yet so I don't know what time I'll be there but that can be worked on.

Response by SGT Ben Keen made Jul 17 at 2014 1:13 PM

2014-07-17T13:13:11-04:00

If any one is interested, I just told 1SG Private RallyPoint Member that I'll be getting to the Marriott Hotel around 2100 hrs on the 15th of August and after checking in and putting my luggage in my room I'll probably go and find a good watering hole. If anyone would like to join me, feel free to send me a PM and we will work out the details.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 21 at 2014 10:18 AM

2014-07-21T10:18:10-04:00

Just bought my tickets.

Now I am stretching my legs because in true Marine Corps fashion I will be humping in from Cincinnati with a good 60lb pack...uphill, both ways, rather than flying.

Response by MAJ(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 27 at 2014 9:00 PM

2014-07-27T21:00:22-04:00

Hey all, I wanted to point out that Raleigh has a free bus service that moves throughout a pretty good portion of Downtown Raleigh and its surrounding areas. This is handy because it really widens the selection of available (and probably cheaper) hotels for you to stay at and still have a free/sober ride back to the hotel. See the link below for more info...

Get Around :: R-LINE Stop Locations :: Downtown Raleigh

Response by MAJ(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Jul 27 at 2014 9:48 PM

2014-07-27T21:48:44-04:00

I shall be there... I'm really looking forward to being able to network and learn. I've got pretty high expectations for this event.

Response by SGT Ben Keen made Jul 28 at 2014 12:37 PM

2014-07-28T12:37:30-04:00

Only a little over 2 weeks until we take RallyPoint from online to an actual gathering and I for one I'm really looking forward to it!

Is there an updated registered head count CPT Dave Shephard ?

Response by Capt Brandon Charters made Jul 31 at 2014 4:09 PM

2014-07-31T16:09:20-04:00

CPT Dave Shephard I'm sure you are in the process of approaching the city council on renaming the convention center "RaleighPoint" for this weekend...right?

Response by SGT Ben Keen made Jul 31 at 2014 4:40 PM

2014-07-31T16:40:17-04:00

Thought maybe we could use a new banner image as we are getting closer and closer to this awesome event.

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 2 at 2014 1:11 PM

2014-08-02T13:11:44-04:00

I already bought a ticket, and was going to attend. Unfortunately, I've just been notified that my WOAC class will be doing our Staff Ride at Cowpens, SC on Saturday, August 16th, and will not return to Ft. Gordon, GA until after 1900 on Saturday. There's no way I could get to Raleigh.

What do I do about getting a refund on the ticket price?

Response by SSG Kris Eastham made Aug 8 at 2014 11:25 PM

2014-08-08T23:25:15-04:00

My wife and I will be there and looking forward to it. Is there an itinerary?

Response by SGT Ben Keen made Aug 13 at 2014 12:48 PM

2014-08-13T12:48:04-04:00

Does anyone know what the WiFi situation is at the Convention Center? I can use my iPhone as a hotspot if I need but I'm thinking for the networking time, it would be great to have Internet access on my devices without chewing through my data. :)

Response by CPT Zachary Brooks made Aug 13 at 2014 7:09 PM

2014-08-13T19:09:13-04:00

Looks like my wife joined the site. She will be attending this event with me.

Response by SGT Ben Keen made Aug 14 at 2014 1:37 PM

2014-08-14T13:37:47-04:00

Here we go!

Response by SSG Robert Burns made Aug 15 at 2014 12:03 AM

2014-08-15T00:03:17-04:00

I don't know why, but if feels like Christmas Eve to me for some reason.

Response by SGT Craig Northacker made Aug 15 at 2014 9:53 AM

2014-08-15T09:53:10-04:00

Hi folks - have a great time there. I have some family health issues that are pressing so I will not be able to attend as I was planning. I hope everyone has a wonderful time!

Be well,

Craig

Response by SGT Ben Keen made Aug 15 at 2014 10:41 PM

2014-08-15T22:41:42-04:00

Made it to the hotel, freshened up and now enjoying a good beer at the bar before the start #RPx2014.

Response by MAJ Robert (Bob) Petrarca made Aug 16 at 2014 9:23 PM

2014-08-16T21:23:32-04:00

I couldn't be there but got a lot of great info courtesy of the live feed. Great job!!!

Response by Amn Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 19 at 2015 3:25 PM

2015-04-19T15:25:05-04:00

Is there a reg that