The city has its problems, but the downtown area is pretty much safe for the most part.

pretty much safe... I like that... makes for some interesting times. As for where we are staying, hasn't been decided yet. Trying to go as cheap as possible and still be close to the action (bars and such) probably will stay in the city. There will be about 10-12 of us. I will let you local people know where we are staying once things become concrete. Thanks for the input. Any recommendations for cheap places to stay or bars to go to?

ill for sure be there we should exchange numbers or somethin or plan a lil meet up down there at least to check out the show maybe go somewheer for a few winter pics or so if its nice

Calm down people, I was just joking about the Big D. I'm down there at least once a week and I haven't got shot yet! - knock on wood! I'm just joking, just like all major cities, they have there bad spots and they have there good spots. Well since I'm under 21 still , I can't recommend any bars. At least legally! BUT there is this great little place called CANADA that is 5 min from COBO for all 21 and under.