Jib I couldn't agree with more, especially with those early events - simple, no guidelines, vague schedules, disorganized...
Some of those early/first events I attended left me feeling lost and wondering if I should even bother with this hobby. Luckily I stumbled into Cascabel and Braze who were inclusive and encouraging - of course they regret inviting me to along. LOL
I have say that out of all the events I've got to be a part of on either coast, Pirates in Paradise/Fort Taylor Pirate Invasion in Key West, FL is hands down was my favorite - in fact, I've never found another event like it.
But special thanks to @William Brand for pulling me and Pub out of retirement, the 1721 Fort King George event that we put on is by far my current favorite.