Life in Social Strata [VALL]

After going to Dallas for the Lone Star Holmes conference last month, it only reinforced an important aspect of Sherlockian events and I came home full of energy and ideas for Holmes in the Heartland.  All of the official details for that weekend (July 28-30) can be found on The Parallel Case of St. Louis's blog so I won't retread that today.  

But I do want to take a moment to highlight the best part of any Sherlockian gathering is for me.

It's the Sherlockians.  And although it isn't official, I wanted to point out two things we are doing in St. Louis next month.

First, The Crew of the Barque Lone Star purposely built in socialization time in between speakers at the Lone Star Holmes conference and that was an essential takeaway for me.  So the Holmes in the Heartland speaker schedule will be two presentations and a break, two presentations and a break, etc.  

Need to run up to your hotel room?  You're covered.

Was there something at a vendor's table you wanted to revisit?  You've got time.

Feel like you'd like to talk to some folks and stretch your legs?  Get up!

And the second thing is something I've seen Holmes, Doyle, and Friends do so well: The nightlife.

The Sheraton Westport Plaza was chosen for Holmes in the Heartland because of all of the restaurant choices within walking distance.  It's got options for everyone: Sushi.  Tacos.  Diner food.  A deli.  Japanese steakhouse.  Bar food.  McDonald's.  And if you've ever been to a Sherlockian event, you know that all you have to do is be in the hotel lobby when a group is heading out and they will drag you along.  All of these dinner options were chosen so that people wouldn't stay strangers long!

Unfortunately, the hotel bar situation has changed since we booked everything back in 2020, and there isn't a in-house tavern for us to take over.  But let me tell you, Westport Plaza has one of the coolest bars you could imagine, Westport Social.  Drinks and tables to hang out?  Sure.  But it's also full of shuffleboard, ping pong, basketball, and more.  Once again, right in walking distance to the hotel so you are set for Friday and Saturday night!

And yes, Sherlockian conferences have entertaining and informative talks, tantalizing vendors, pleasant meals, and more.  But for me, these events are about being able to spend time with other Sherlockians.  And trust me, we've made it a point for you to hang out with friends both new and old at Holmes in the Heartland next month.  So if you haven't signed up yet, now's the time!