Rolling Thunder Ride For Freedom?

I will be attending the Rolling Thunder Ride for Freedom this May (2011). I would love to receive from anyone that has attended this ride any helpful information. Are there areas anyone would recommend to reserve a hotel room (and areas to avoid)? They start to emble at 7AM. The ride starts at noon. Should we plan to be at the north lot of the Pentagon at 7? Really just any helpful information from someone that has attended this event would really be appreciated. I turned 60 this year, I am a vet, and I will be riding from NE Ohio. Any suggestions, recommendation and advise will be appreciated. Thank you very much.