The Evaluation 2009 team has put
together a terrific menu of evening outings to enable conference
attendees to experience the unique hospitality, cuisine, and hot
spots of Orlando. It will be hard to choose among them!
How are the outings organized?
Three main
categories frame the outing options:
-
Connecting to Content, intends to complement session presentations and to highlight some of the local evaluation efforts. (Outing 1)
-
Dining in Style, provides a rich array of cuisine from which to choose. (Outings 2-11)
-
Orlando Hot Spots, showcases some of the local venues for music and entertainment and events are also often accompanied by a dinner option. (Outings 12-18)
When are the Outings? All outings will take place on Thursday
evening, November 12, 2009. Specific times are detailed for each outing.
Where are the Outings? Outings take place at locations in Orlando near the main conference hotel - but please note that all require a short bus or taxi ride. Location information is listed with each description.
Is there a limit on how many may participate? Each outing has a
limited number of spaces. Be sure to sign up early to save your spot!
How do I participate? First, take a look at all the outings to see
which you might like to attend. Then, once you have made a choice, click on
the sign-up link for that outing.
What if I Need to Cancel? If you need to remove yourself from an
outing on or before
Wednesday, November 4, please send an email to
office@eval.org so that we may
open your spot to another individual. If you need to cancel after
Wednesday, November 4, please contact the staff at the registration
desk on site.
How do I get there? Each outing has a "Host" who will meet the
group at the pre-determined place and time and will lead the group to the
outing location. Hosts are identified in the outing description.
Who Pays for the Outings? The outings are designed to be gathering
with friends and colleagues. Each attendee is required to cover his or her
own expenses. Anticipated expenses are detailed for each outing.
This year's Nights Out for Thursday, November
12, 2009
Connecting to Content
Dining in Style
- The Melting Pot
- The Woodlands
- Taverna Opa
- The Capital Grille
- Emeril’s
- Seasons 52
- Oceanaire Seafood Room
- Maggiano’s Little Italy
- Cuba Libre Restaurant
and Rum Bar
- Samba Room
Orlando Hot Spots
- Redrock Canyon Grill and Howl at the Moon
-
B.B. King’s Blues Club
-
Blue Man Group
-
The Latin Quarter
- Red Coconut Club Ladies Night
- Sleuths Mystery Dinner Shows
- Bowling, Beer and Shooting the Bull
Connecting to
Content
These Nights Out events are intended to
complement session presentations. You will meet other researchers and delegates,
socialize, and enjoy a nice dinner. You do not
need to attend both the conference session and the “Connecting to Content”
Nights Out; you may choose to attend only the Nights Out or only the session if you wish.
Night Out
#1:
A Taste of Visitor Studies at Café Tu Tu Tango
This event is full, please choose another.
What:
Dinner,
drinks and lively discussion about visitor studies/evaluation within
learning centers.
Your hosts:
Kathleen Tinworth, Director of Visitor Research and Program
Evaluation at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science and Vice-Chair of the
Professional Development Committee, Visitor Studies Association; Cheryl
Kessler, Research Association at the Institute for Learning Innovation and
Board Member/Chair of the Professional Development Committee, Visitor
Studies Association
Description:
This Nights Out
event is associated with Multipaper Session 126, Informal Environments: A
Sampler of Audience Research and Evaluation from the Visitor Studies
Association, to be held in Suwannee 17 on Wednesday, November 11, 4:30-6
p.m. Though designed to be complementary, you may choose to attend only the
Nights Out event or only the multipaper session. In either, learn more about
what evaluation within cultural learning sites. What does evaluation and
research in informal learning environments look like? How does this work?
What are the challenges and constraints for evaluating informal learning
environments? The session will focus on evaluations conducted at several
sites, including the Long Island Children’s Museum, the U.S. Holocaust
Memorial Memorial as well as science centers and living history sites. Join
us for dinner and discussion at Café Tu Tu Tango, extending the conversation
of the day as well as hitting highlights of the Arts and Culture TIG
evaluation offerings at this year’s AEA conference. This event offers a
great way to get acquainted with colleagues in the field while experiencing
the feast of the senses that is Tu Tu Tango. All event participants will
receive information on local arts and cultural events and institutions. For
those interested, there will be after-dinner cocktails at the conference
hotel to keep the conversation going.
Where we are going:
Café Tu Tu
Tango, 8625 International Drive. 407-248-2222.
www.cafetututango.com
Unlike any other dining experience, Café Tu Tu Tango
entertains you while you eat. The restaurant is an artist’s lounge featuring
unique and eclectic artists’ masterpieces, live music and dancing while you
enjoy Mediterranean inspired tapas. Entertainment ranges from Flamenco
dancers to balloon artists to roaming musicians, you could encounter anyone
and anything. The menu has a broad range of choices including Spanish
Antipasto, Black Bean Soup, Sesame Seared Tuna Sashimi, Cuban Grilled Steak
Skewers and Barcelona Stir Fry. At Café Tu Tu Tango they want to awaken the
senses, allow you to savor the world’s most tantalizing tastes and make each
visit as far from ordinary as you can get.
How we get there: AEA will provide transportation to the event; you are responsible for your own return fare via taxi at your convenience (we recommend sharing among dinner companions).
Anticipated expenses: Tu Tu Tango runs about $30-$40, although light fare may be had for under $20. Drinks afterwards would be about $10-$30.
Rendezvous at staging area at AEA Registration Desk at: 7:40 PM
Maximum number of participants:
15
To sign up go to the AEA Nights Out Signup form and select Night Out #1.
If you have questions about this outing, please email
gwen@eval.org
Dining In
Style
These Nights Out events showcase the range of
dining options in the area. You will meet other researchers and delegates,
socialize, and enjoy an evening out at restaurants that have been selected
for their unique Orlando flair.
What:
Dip into Something Different at The Melting Pot
Your host:
Nicole Vicinanza. Nicole developed a love of fondue on a trip to
Switzerland during her freshman year in college. She has since visited
fondue restaurants in Virginia where she attended graduate school,
throughout the California San Francisco Bay Area (where she now lives) and
in several states across the U.S. She is a recovering compulsive volunteer,
having served as AEA Job Bank Coordinator, Conference Committee member,
Conference Chair, Local Education Foundation Board member, Treasurer, and
later, Auditor of the George Hall Elementary PTA, and tie-dye and geology
instructor for her son’s after school program. In her spare time she works
as an evaluation specialist for the Aguirre Division of JBS International,
overseeing evaluation studies and developing evaluation technical assistance
materials for state and federal programs and non-profit organizations.
Description:
Take a culinary journey to the
place where fondue originated. Enjoy delicious recipes that date back to
their birthplace of the Alps. The restaurant is known for its delicious
dipping sauces – cheeses, chocolates and other tasty concoctions – along
with more hearty selections from land and sea. At The Melting Pot, fondue
truly becomes a memorable four-course dining experience where patrons can
dip into something different – and discover all the ingredients for a unique
dining experience including a relaxed atmosphere, private tables, attentive
service, fine wines and signature fondue dinner. Experience the sensation
and Stir Things Up at The Melting Pot.
Where we are going:
The Melting Pot, 7549 W. Sand Lake Road,
407-903-1100,
www.themeltingpot.com
How we get there: AEA will provide transportation to the event; you are responsible for your own return fare via taxi at your convenience (we recommend sharing among dinner companions).
Anticipated expenses:
$35-$45 per person
Rendezvous at staging area at AEA Registration Desk at: 7:20 PM
Maximum number of participants: 18
To sign up go to the AEA Nights Out Signup form and select Night Out #2.
If you have questions about this outing, please email
gwen@eval.org
What:
Vegetarian Indian Cuisine
Your host:
Cady Berkel. Cady is a Post-Doctoral Fellow at the Prevention Research
Center at Arizona State University, with an interest in the study of program
implementation to make programs more culturally competent. Cady has been an
AEA member for longer than she can remember. She helps orient conference
volunteers and coordinate social events. She has been enjoying vegetarian
food since she was 12 and tries to burn off the calories by dancing
flamenco.
Description: If you like pure vegetarian Indian cuisine served in a calm,
relaxed setting, try the Woodlands. The restaurant touts that a lot of
meticulous Research and Development (R&D) over the years have gone into
their food menu preparations to cater to the high, deserving demands of its
valued customers. Menu items include an array of South Indian delicacies –
curries, rice crepes, lentil patties, pancakes, pullavs, large fried puffy
bread, etc. The pioneering spirit of its founder and customer conscious
management have developed a catering spirit laced with humane hospitality in
serving food and servicing the favorite menus and dishes of its millions of
customers. The customers who throng the place day in and day out have a
sparkling, sweet, and a happy time at Woodlands.
Where we are going: 6040 S. Orange Blossom Trail (6.38 mi.)
407-854-3330. www.woodlandsusa.com
How we get there: AEA will provide transportation to the event; you are responsible for your own return fare via taxi at your convenience (we recommend sharing among dinner companions).
Anticipated expenses: $20
Rendezvous at staging area at AEA Registration Desk at: 7:30 PM
Maxiumum number of participants: 18
To sign up go to the
AEA
Nights Out Signup form and select Night Out #3.
If you have questions about this
outing, please email
gwen@eval.org
What:
Greek Cuisine at Taverna Opa
Your host:
David Bernstein. David
is a Senior Study Director and Senior Evaluation Specialist with Westat in
Rockville, Maryland, and is the Chair of the Government Evaluation TIG.
David have been a member of AEA and its predecessor, the Evaluation Research
Society, for 26 years. David is based in Lancaster County, PA, and is an
avid photographer who enjoys live rock and roll music. David was raised on
Greek food, spent his honeymoon in Greece, and is looking forward to sharing
his love of Greek food at Taverna Opa. Yassas!!
Description:
Fire-eating belly dancers? Authentic Greek food?
Festive entertainment? Taverna Opa has them all. Serving traditional Greek
food such as tzatiki, spanakopita, kebabs and varieties of lamb, along with
more American fare, this restaurant will keep your stomachs full and a smile
on your face. Guests are invited to dance the Zorba and participate in Opa
Time where the staff throws small paper napkins just like a traditional
Greek celebration.
Where we are
going:
Taverna Opa, 9101 International Drive, Orlando,
407-351-8660,
Taverna Opa
How we get there: AEA will provide transportation to the event; you return either on your own at your convenience, or via the scheduled AEA bus loop that runs every half hour with the last pickup at 10:20.
Anticipated
expenses:
$30.00 per person
Rendezvous at staging area at AEA Registration Desk at: 7:30 PM
Maximum number of participants: 15
To sign up go to the AEA Nights Out Signup form and select Night Out #4
If you have questions about this outing, please email
gwen@eval.org
Night Out
#5: The Capital Grille
This event is full, please choose another.
What:
High End Dining at The Capital Grille
Your host:
Jennifer Martineau.
Jennifer is the Group Director of Global Research, Innovation, and
Evaluation at the Center for Creative Leadership. Her evaluation work
focuses on discovering how leadership development initiatives contribute to
improvements in individual, organizational, and community effectiveness.
When she’s not working, Jennifer and her husband try to keep up with the
various sports, music, church, and social activities of their three children
(17, 14, and 10). To that point, Jennifer is really looking forward to a
relaxing “night out” at AEA with great conversation and wonderful food!
Description:
For an elegant evening with and
impressive menu, award winning wine list and relaxing atmosphere try The
Capital Grille. The dark mahogany wood, white linens & plush leather booths
will leave you feeling pampered as you enjoy all that the restaurant has to
offer. The Capital Grille is most well known for their rich, juicy and aged
steaks as well as their seafood entrees such as the Grilled Swordfish with
Lemon Shallot Relish. You will need to leave room for their desert menu,
which includes Coconut Cream Pie, Handmade Ice Cream and Chocolate Hazelnut
Cake.
Where we are going:
9101
International Drive, Orlando, 407-370-4392,
The Capital
Grille
How we get there: AEA will provide transportation to the event; you return either on your own at your convenience, or via the scheduled AEA bus loop that runs every half hour with the last pickup at 10:20.
Anticipated expenses:
$70.00 per
person
Rendezvous at staging area at AEA Registration Desk at: 8:00 PM
Maximum number of participants: 15
To sign up go to the
AEA
Nights Out Signup form and select Night Out #5.
If you have questions about this outing, please email
gwen@eval.org
Night Out #6: Emeril's at Citywalk
This event is full, please choose another.
What: Dinner at Emeril’s Orlando, at Universal
CityWalk, one of Orlando’s hottest spots for dining and entertainment.
Your host:
Bonnie Swan.
Bonnie is a local Floridian and Director of PEER – the Program Evaluation
and Educational Research Group, an evaluation unit at the University of
Central Florida in Orlando.
Description: Come get Emerilized - Orlando style!
Emeril’s restaurant draws
large crowds of mostly loyal locals for the celebrity chef’s creative New
Orleans cuisine, dished up in the heart of the Universal’s CityWalk where
nightlife is BAM! Kicking Universal’s cuisine scene up a notch, Emeril’s
Orlando has been ranked by locals as one of its best restaurants. It
encompasses everything that Emeril stands for - high energy, bold exciting
flavors and a memorable experience.
Where we are going:
6000 Universal Blvd. #702, Orlando, 407-224-2424
Emeril's Orlando
How we get there: AEA will provide transportation to the event; you return either on your own at your convenience, or via the scheduled AEA bus loop that picks up at CityWalk at 10:10 and 11:10.
Anticipated expenses:
$60.00 per person
Maximum number of participants: 15
To sign up go to the AEA Nights Out Signup form and select Night Out #6.
If you have questions about this outing, please email
gwen@eval.org
This event is full, please choose another.
What:
Healthy Dining at Seasons 52
Your host: Jody Fitzpatrick has been a long-time member of AEA. She has served on the AEA Board, is on the Editorial Board of AJE and NDE and has two books in evaluation focusing on practice. She served as co-program chair for Evaluation 2009 and is looking forward to more discussions on context. She says the restaurant menu looks fabulous with an emphasis on healthy eating -- even desserts! So, come join her at this fabulous place. She would love to meet you, have some fun, and learn more about your work in evaluation.
Description:
Health conscious eaters with a gourmet
palette we have found the perfect restaurant for you. Seasons 52 is a grill
and wine bar that serves meals using the best offerings from each season,
with each dish having fewer than 475 calories. Using natural cooking
techniques, including no butter in the cooking, Seasons 52 is an excellent
choice for a healthy eater. The atmosphere is warm and friendly with seating
inside or out on the patio. The menu changes depending on the season but may
include entrees such as Tamarind Glazed Salmon Salad, Jumbo Shrimp Stuffed
with Lump Crab, Oak Roasted Pork Tenderloin, Chicken Breast Cabernet and
Caramelized Sea Scallops. In addition to their incredibly healthy menu
Seasons 52 has an award winning wine list with 120 different types including
60 offered by the glass.
Where we are going:
Seasons 52,
7700 Sand Lake Road, Orlando, 407-354-5212,
Seasons 52
How we get there: AEA will provide transportation to the event; you are responsible for your own return fare via taxi at your convenience (we recommend sharing among dinner companions).
Anticipated expenses:
$35.00 per
person (light fare and a beverage for $20.00)
Maximum number of participants: 10
To sign up go to the AEA Nights Out Signup form and select Night Out #7.
If you have questions about this outing, please email
gwen@eval.org
Night Out #8:
Oceanaire
Seafood Room
What:
Fresh Seafood at The Oceanaire Seafood Room
Your host:
Derrick Gervin.
Derrick is a Lead Evaluator at The Evaluation Group (TEG) and works out of
TEG’s Atlanta office. He serves
as co-program chair for the Social Work TIG and was a member of the AEA/DU
Graduate Diversity Internship Program – cohort IV. Derrick recently completed his PhD in Social Work from Clark
Atlanta University and enjoys family time with his wife and daughters ages 2
and 4 months.
Description:
Ahoy! Seafood lovers will enjoy dining
aboard a replica 1930’s ocean liner. Enhanced with cherrywood paneling and
hardwood floors the Oceanaire Seafood Room is the perfect place for those
looking for the freshest fish available. They have 25 varieties of fish but
only use today’s catch to ensure freshness. Waiters will de-bone the fish at
the table for you and for those eating Alaskan Crab Legs you no longer have
to worry about your butter getting cold as they keep it warm over candle
flame. Also available is an oyster bar with east coast and west coast
selections. Considered the seafood restaurant for people who love
steakhouses.
Where we are going:
Oceanaire
Seafood Room, 9101 International Drive, Orlando, 407-363-4801,
The
Oceanaire
How we get there: AEA will provide transportation to the event; you return either on your own at your convenience, or via the scheduled AEA bus loop that runs every half hour with the last pickup at 10:20.
Anticipated expenses:
$40.00 per
person (lighter fare plus beverage $25.00)
Rendezvous at staging area at AEA Registration Desk at: 7:05 PM
Maximum number of participants: 15
To sign up go to the AEA Nights Out Signup form and select Night Out #8.
If you have questions about this outing, please email
gwen@eval.org
Night Out
#9:
Maggiano’s
Little Italy
What:
Italian Cuisine at Maggiano’s Little Italy
Your host:
Tom Chapel. Tom
is the chief evaluation officer at CDC's chronic disease center and an
experience program evaluator and active AEA member. He co-runs the popular AEA/CDC Summer Evaluation Institute
each June in Atlanta and is one of the founding members, and current
convener, for the AEA Local Affiliate Collaborative.
Description:
Eaters beware! Come with an empty
stomach. Very generous portions of Italian cuisine are available at
Maggiano’s Little Italy. The friendly atmosphere and large menu will make
any hungry guest happy. The perfect place to slow down; enjoy a great meal
and reconnect with friends and family. If you are a fan of Italian cuisine
try one of the Little Italy Favorites such as Beef Braciole, Lobster
Fettuccine, Chicken Francese or Baked Ziti and Sausage. The Maggiano’s
philosophy is a trip to Maggianos is as much about feeding memories as it is
about feeding stomachs.
Where we are going:
Maggiano’s
Little Italy, 9101 International Drive, Orlando, 407-241-8650,
Maggiano's Little Italy
How we get there: AEA will provide transportation to the event; you return either on your own at your convenience, or via the scheduled AEA bus loop that runs every half hour with the last pickup at 10:20.
Anticipated expenses: $35.00 per person (lighter fare with beverage $25.00 per person)
Rendezvous at staging area at AEA Registration Desk at: 7:30 PM
Maximum number of participants: 15
To sign up go to the AEA Nights Out Signup form and select Night Out #9.
If you have questions about this outing, please email
gwen@eval.org
Night Out #10: Cuba Libre Restaurant and Rum
Bar
This event is full, please choose another.
What:
Cuban Cuisine at Cuba Libre Restaurant and Rum
Bar
Your host:
Bob Pawloski and Kristin Duppong Hurley. Bob,
recently involved with AEA’s Learning Circles Project, is an evaluator at
the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha. His evaluation areas of
interest include education, public health, and community organizations. He
will be joined by University of Nebraska at Lincoln colleague Kristin
Duppong Hurley. Kristin's areas of focus have been parenting programs,
emergency youth shelters, residential youth services, and school-based
social skills interventions. Bob and Kristin have been involved in forming a
regional evaluation organization among states in the Missouri River Basin
and would enjoy visiting with anyone interested in their organization that
aspires to affiliate with AEA, or evaluators willing to share their
experience in a similar process.
Or just join them for a dining experience with alternatives to beef
...they are from Nebraska.
Description:
Experiencing 1950’s Havana, Cuba without ever leaving Orlando. The ambiance
at Cuba Libre is exotic with vibrant colors, exotic foliage and
authentically dressed staff. The menu is has from Spanish, African, Creole
and Asian influences delivering a selection of very flavorful and
tantalizing choices. Menu choices range from Chilean Sea Bass & Pan Seared
Sugarcane Shrimp to Lime-Garlic Chicken and Grilled Skirt Steak. Along with
your meal you can try one of their 70 varieties of Rum or one of their house
specialty mojitos.
Where we are going:
9101
International Drive, Orlando, 407-226-1600
Cuba Libre
Orlando
How we get there: AEA will provide transportation to the event; you return either on your own at your convenience, or via the scheduled AEA bus loop that runs every half hour with the last pickup at 10:20.
Anticipated expenses:
$35.00 per
person (lighter fare and a beverage $15.00)
Rendezvous at staging area at AEA Registration Desk at: 8:00 PM
Maximum number of participants: 12
To sign up go to the AEA Nights Out Signup form and select Night Out #10.
If you have questions about this outing, please email
gwen@eval.org
This event is full, please choose another.
What:
Award-winning Latin
cuisine
Your host:
Cindy Kronauge. Cindy lives and works in Colorado but
loves to visit Florida. Cindy is the Health Data Analyst for the Weld County Department of
Public Health & Environment and one of the founders of the Colorado
Evaluation Network. She
currently likes to seek out tapas restaurants when she is traveling. She
hopes other Colorado AEA’ers will join her (and anyone else who signs up)
for a fun night out in the Orlando area!
Description:
Samba Room offers a menu that marries award-winning
Latin cuisine – grilled meats and fresh seafood artfully blended with exotic
fruits and rare spices. Specialties include Rum Teriyaki Glazed Salmon,
Chilean Seabass “Enchilado”, Crispy Florida Red Snapper, Samba Soba Noodles
and Argentinean Style Skirt Steak.
Where we are going: 7468 Sand Lake Road,
407-226-0550
www.sambaroom.net
How we get there: AEA will provide transportation to the event; you are responsible for your own return fare via taxi at your convenience (we recommend sharing among dinner companions).
Anticipated expenses:
$35.00 per
person
Rendezvous at staging area at AEA Registration Desk at: 7:40 PM
Departure location: In the foyer by the AEA registration area
Maximum number of participants: 15
To sign up go to the AEA Nights Out Signup form and select Night Out #11.
If you have questions about this outing, please email
gwen@eval.org
Orlando Hot Spots
These Night Out Events showcase some of the
unique places in downtown Orlando.
Venture to some of the best venues for music
and entertainment. Many of these events are also often accompanied by
dinner.
Night Out
#12: Dinner at Redrock Canyon Grill and
Dueling Pianos at Howl at the Moon
This event is full, please choose another.
What:
American Dinner and Dueling Pianos
Your hosts:
Rob Shumer.
Rob is an
adjunct faculty member at the University of Minnesota in Curriculum and
Instruction/Human Resource Development Education and is involved in
evaluations of service learning and civic engagement in several states. He
is current president of the Minnesota Evaluation Association, an affiliate
of AEA.
Description:
Start your night with American cuisine at
Red Rock Canyon Grill. Menu selections include Pork Chops, Wood-Fired
Rotisserie Chicken, Crab Imperial Topped Tilapia and Rib eye Steak. Then,
take a walk over to Howl at the Moon for the Dueling Pianos ($5 cover
charge). The musicians here know every song from Top 40 to Billy Joel to the
Beastie Boys. You can send up requests, sing along, get up and dance or just
enjoy the bar.
Where we are
going:
9101
International Drive, Orlando, 407-363-3933 Red Rock Canyon Grill;
8815 International Drive, Orlando, 407-354-5999 Howl at the Moon
How we get there: AEA will provide transportation to the event; you return either on your own at your convenience, or via the scheduled AEA bus loop that runs every half hour with the last pickup at 10:20.
Anticipated expenses: $45.00 per person, including $5 cover charge
Rendezvous at staging area at AEA Registration Desk at: 7:05 PM
Maximum number
of participants:
15
To sign up go to the AEA Nights Out Signup form and select Night Out #12.
If you have questions about this
outing, please email
gwen@eval.org
Night Out #13:
B.B. King’s Blues Club
What:
Southern Cuisine at B.B. King’s Blues
Club
Your hosts: Annalisa Staffa and Leslie Gonzales. Annalisa is a methodologist in applied social sciences with a strong interest in the evaluation of development programs. Right now she is traveling around the world to learn, research and write. She has worked for different associations and non-profit organizations in different parts of Italy. Since studying to become a methodologist, she has given up trying to explain her job to friends and family and for most of them, she is a "simple" statistician. She is an expert of good food and she is trying to conjugate her passion to eat with participatory evaluation in this event. Leslie is a doctoral candidate in the Education Leadership & Foundations program at the University of Texas at El Paso where she studies higher education, organizational change, and faculty behavior. In addition to her dissertation research, Leslie carries out evaluation work for the Center for Research on Educational Reform at University of Texas El Paso. Currently, Leslie is also managing multiple evaluation and planning projects for a local non-profit organization. Leslie enjoys spending time with her husband and daughter, reading, working out, and watching movies.
Description:
If you are a fan of blues music then
dinner with a little bit of soul is available at B.B. King’s Blues Club.
With southern comfort food like Fried Green Tomatoes, Catfish Po Boy, Lip
Smacking Ribs, Boil from the Bayou and Chicken Fried Chicken you will be in
for a treat. Along with the menu there is live music every night from
featured guests or the BB Kings All-Star Band who will bring you back in
time with songs from artists like Aretha, Tina, Ray and the Temptations.
Where we are
going:
9101 International Drive #2230, Orlando,
407-370-4550
B.B. King's Blues Club
How we get there: AEA will provide transportation to the event; you return either on your own at your convenience, or via the scheduled AEA bus loop that runs every half hour with the last pickup at 10:20.
Anticipated
expenses:
$30.00 per person (lighter fare and a
beverage $20.00)
Rendezvous at staging area at AEA Registration Desk at: 8:00 PM
Maximum number of participants: 15
To sign up go to the
AEA
Nights Out Signup form and select Night Out #13.
If you have questions about this
outing, please email
gwen@eval.org
Night Out #14: Blue Man Group at Universal Orlando
Resort
What:
Live Stage Show
Combining Music, Comedy & Theatrics – All in Blue
Your host:
Melissa Henson. Melissa received a BA in Sociology, a BA in Psychology and minored in
Criminal Justice from UCF in 2008. She is currently pursuing a MA in
Sociology and anticipates graduating in Spring 2010. Her research interests
include Domestic Violence, Deviant Behavior, Family Trends, Education, and
Policy Evaluation.
Description:
Experience the
new face of today’s entertainment. Blue Man Group’s unique form of
entertainment combines music, comedy and multimedia theatrics that creates a
blissful party atmosphere that people of all ages agree is a totally
outrageous experience. World-renowned for their live stage shows, Blue Man
Group now brings their eclectic mix of live music, fantastic percussion
instruments, unexpected humor and so much more. At Universal Orlando Resort.
Showtime 8 p.m. Keep your ticket stub to enjoy CityWalk afterward with free
admission to select venues. Tickets are $74-$84.
Where we are going: Universal Orlando Resort, Universal CityWalk, 6000 Universal Blvd. 407-258-3626 or 866- http://www.universalorlando.com/Shows/blue_man_group_tickets.aspx?ComponentId=9210&SourcePageId=9128#4
How we get there: AEA will provide transportation to the event; you return either on your own at your convenience, or via the scheduled AEA bus loop that picks up at CityWalk at 10:10 and 11:10.
Anticipated
expenses:
Tickets are
$74-$84; Discounts for advance purchase
Rendezvous at staging area at AEA Registration Desk at: 7:05 PM
Maximum number of participants: 25
To sign up go to the AEA Nights Out Signup form and select Night Out #14. Once signed up, we're going to wait until November 2 when new seats open up and try to work together to purchase seats at that time.
If you have questions about this
outing, please email
gwen@eval.org
Night Out #15:
The Latin Quarter
What: Dancing, Drinks and Nibbles at The Latin Quarter
Your host:
Donna Mertens.
Donna is a past president of AEA, having served on the Board from 1997-2002,
during which time she pursued AEA's positioning with regard to diversity and
international issues. She is the editor of the Sage Handbook of
Social Research Ethics (with Pauline Ginsberg) and author of Transformative
Research and Evaluation (Guilford) and Research and Evaluation in Education
and Psychology (Sage). She is a Professor of research and program evaluation
at Gallaudet University in Washington DC.
Description: Feeling a bit spicy? Complete with live entertainment from the latest Latin bands, traditional Peruvian bands & calypso acts with Salsa, Cha-Cha and Merengue dancers, impromptu dance lessons and unique décor, the Latin Quarter lets you have a true Latin experience. Influenced from Aztec, Incan and Mayan architecture and 21 Latin nations, the Latin Quarter allows you to escape into a different world. Grab a quick bite for Dinner before we depart and we'll be having snacks to keep us on our toes from their great appetizer menu.
Where we are
going: Latin Quarter, 6000 Universal Blvd,
Orlando, 407-224-2806,
Latin Quarter
How we get there: AEA will provide transportation to the event; you return either on your own at your convenience, or via the scheduled AEA bus loop that picks up at CityWalk at 10:10 and 11:10.
Rendezvous at staging area at AEA Registration Desk at: 8:10 PM
Maximum number of participants: 20
To sign up go to the AEA Nights Out Signup form and select Night Out #15.
If you have questions about this
outing, please email
gwen@eval.org
Night Out #16: Red Coconut Club Ladies Night
This event is full, please choose another.
What: A night of dancing, snacks, and great conversation
Your host:
Susan
Berkowitz. Susan began her professional career as an academic anthropologist
who conducted ethnographic fieldwork in Southern Italy, before transitioning
into more applied research pursuits, including program evaluation with a
qualitative and mixed method bent. In an even earlier life, she was a
dancer. She has been at Westat in Maryland for over 19 years.
Description: The Red Coconut Club® is Orlando’s premier nightclub and ultra-lounge. It sits atop CityWalk®, where you can take in the stars on the balcony, mellow out at intimate tables inside, or mix with lively crowds around the bars. The couldn't-be-hipper décor is a little bit 1950s Vegas, a little bit Cuban, and a little bit Polynesian-tiki retro with vintage couches and bongo-shaped bar stools. You'll find three different bars spread across the club's two levels, featuring signature martinis and specialty drinks, an extensive wine list, and an assortment of gourmet appetizers. Dance to live music featuring The Herb Williams Band. Every Thursday is Ladies' night with no cover charge for ladies - although all are welcome!
Where we are going: Universal Orlando Resort, Universal CityWalk, 6000 Universal Blvd. 407-258-3626
How we get there: AEA will provide transportation to the event; you return either on your own at your convenience, or via the scheduled AEA bus loop that picks up at CityWalk at 10:10 and 11:10.
Anticipated expenses: No cover for women, cover $7 for men, food and drinks run approximately $10 each.
Rendezvous at staging area at AEA Registration Desk at: 8:10 PM
Maximum number of participants:
15
To sign up go to the AEA Nights Out Signup form and select Night Out #16.
If you have questions about this outing, please email
gwen@eval.org
Night Out #17:
Sleuths
Mystery Dinner Shows
This event is full, please choose another.
What: Step into a World of Comedy and Intrigue Where You Become the
Detective
Your Host:
Saumitra SenGupta. Saumitra is a long-time AEA member who is
a beer connoisseur specializing in India Pale Ales which has nothing to do
with the fact that he is a native of India. He lives somewhere around
Berkeley, CA and allegedly founded the San Francisco Bay Area Evaluators’
group - one of whose earliest meetings were held at a Berkeley brew pub.
Saumitra works with the California External Quality Review Organization for
mental health, which conducts reviews of all county mental health plans in
the state. He is also the current Membership Chair of AEA.
Description:
Bring your investigative skills, your appetite, and
be prepared to laugh your way through the evening at Sleuths Mystery Dinner
Shows.
You'll be kept on the edge of your seat as you enjoy a delicious dinner and
dessert with unlimited beer, wine and soft drinks.
Nightly performances feature one of 13 original comedy mysteries.
All shows are 2-1/2 hours of scripted mystery, improvisation and audience
participation. The
night’s feature: Kim & Scott Tie the Knot.
Kim and Scott are getting married.
Serious questions arise: Did Kim murder her first husband? Has Scott been
trading computer software secrets for precious gems? Relatives try to
protect Scott from each other in this fun-filled spoof of an Italian wedding
gone wrong. Watch for anything suspicious, interrogate the suspects and help
solve the crime!
Where we are going:
8267 International Drive. 407-363-1985.
www.sleuths.com
How we get there: AEA will provide transportation to the event; you are responsible for your own return fare via taxi at your convenience (we recommend sharing among dinner companions).
Anticipated expenses: Tickets are $46.95-$51.20 including dinner, tax and gratuities. Includes unlimited drinks, three dinner options and dessert.
Rendezvous at staging area at AEA Registration Desk at: 6:30 PM
Maximum number of attendees: 20
To sign up go to the AEA Nights Out Signup form and select Night Out #17. As soon as you sign up, Go online to http://ow.ly/v6YO and purchase your theater tickets - be sure to select the 7:30 show. We'll arrive early enough that we should be able to sit as a group.
If you have questions about this outing, please email
gwen@eval.org
Night Out
#18:
Bowling,
Beer and Shooting the Bull
What:
Fun and Excitement for
the Kid in All of Us!
Your Host: Lisa Rajigah. Lisa Rajigah is a graduate student at
Utah State University. Currently, Lisa is working as an assistant to Dr. Howard
White, Director of 3ie
(International Initiative for Impact Evaluation). 3ie seeks to improve the lives
of poor people in low- and middle-income countries by providing, and
summarizing, evidence of what works, when, why and for how much. Lisa was the
financial officer for the impact evaluation conference held in Cairo this past
spring. She is interested in connecting with other evaluators interested in
program evaluation in developing countries.
Description:
Get away from it all at the alley! The World Bowling
Center is a state-of-the-art bowling center located in the heart of
Orlando’s tourism district. This Nights Out event features a bounty of
bowling balls, 32 lanes and a fully automated scoring system with touch
screen monitors. Come on! Try your hand at bowling if you never have – or
show us your stuff if you’re already a pro! It promises to be an
unforgettable experience!
Where we are going:
World Bowling Center. 7540 Canada Ave. 407-352-BOWL.
http://www.worldbowlingcenter.com/v1/flash/
How we get there:
AEA will provide transportation to the event; you return on your own at
your convenience
How we get there: AEA will provide transportation to the event; you are responsible for your own return fare via taxi at your convenience (we recommend sharing among dinner companions).
Rendezvous at staging area at AEA Registration Desk at: 7:05 PM
Maximum Number of attendees:
18
To sign up go to the AEA Nights Out Signup form and select Night Out #18.
If you have questions about this
outing, please email
gwen@eval.org