Date: Sun, 9 Nov 2003 09:02:16 -0800 (PST)
From: N Lynch <sfbookfan at yahoo.com>
Subject: [WSFA] Re: IDea
To: WSFA members <WSFAlist at keithlynch.net>
Reply-To: WSFA members <WSFAlist at keithlynch.net>

Re: mailing pre-printed badges

I've worked on conventions since the 70's, so I like
to think I have some background on this.   Might I
suggest those who have an interest in this work a few
hours at Capclave registration?

If badges were printed up that early AND
you could depend on people actually getting the mail
before the con AND
they remembered to actually bring the badges with
them, it might work.  But it's not realistic.

Badges are usually not printed up early so
registration can get as many pre-paid members names on
the badges and put it together the package of program,
etc. to give away at registration.

What happens if the person says they didn't get the
mail because they have been traveling for a month or
moved (because people rarely (1) let cons know or (2)
fill out the forwarding card - we know this from
mailing out fanzines) or didn't get it or don't
remember getting it or just forgot because it was so
(1) late, (2) early, or (3) small.

And where is the con going to get the extra money or
man power to print badges, and buy packages and
postage for mailing?  Not the mention the hassle every
time someone pre-registered shows up without the
pre-printed, pre-mailed badge.  And if the person does
show up with it, why register?  So, the committee will
not know if the person attended and/or stayed at the
hotel.  If they don't know if the person stayed at the
hotel, they can't count for the room block.

Registering at the con isn't just to inconvenience
those few who don't wish to show ID, it's interaction
with other fans and for mutual benefit of the con and
congoer.

Nicki

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"Our pa's each own one of the World Trade Centers
For a kiss and a smile I'll give mine all to you"

Darlington County by Bruce Springsteen

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MIMOSA web site: http://www.jophan.org/mimosa

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