Followup thoughts:
1. Many (well some) of us are academics, which means that prime time for an event is about May 15 to August 15
a. this may eliminate Texas, which I would like to do otherwise
2. I suggest this be viewed as a multi-day "gathering" where people can group up as they please for riding with one day designated for assembly of the entire group for a "common ride"
a. a designated official motel is very desirable IMO
3. From my perspective tagging onto a larger ride is less desirable, but I know there is disagreement on this.
a. crowding and competition for lodging are may main reasons for saying this.
4. To me the most attractive sites mentioned so far are Eugene, OR and Ohio- I have heard great things about Ohio trails and would almost certainly enjoy that. A somewhat central location is a plus for Ohio.... Eugene would be great too. Maybe east and west 50+ rides are in order! I would try to attend at either location if dates were right.
5. Michigan would be okay with me too if a consensus emerges for that location.