CONVENTION REPORT

Last updated October 20, 2008

My begging and pleading for attendance at Chattanooga's convention was ignored by most of you unfortunately. The vendors were extremely unhappy with the attendance and sales. They gave away about $2,000 in prizes and spent several thousand in advertsiing, and the turnout was very poor. I personally gave away almost 200 tickets, and I expected to run into someone I knew every few moments. I spoke with the vendors and begged them to give us another chance, but the chances of that happening are not good at this point. That means our nearest point of inspiration will be Columbia SC or possibly Raleigh NC. 

I was talking to someone this week that had never been to a convention and really didn't know what it was like. I feel I should have explained a little more to people how great it is. Yes, there's lots of stamp shopping at your finger tips, but even more than that are the mostly free demos presented by each vendor. You can learn something new each time you go, and it's just a visual treat to walk around and look at all the card samples. Everyone is so willing to explain and demo anything that you want. I would go to every convention within driving distance if I could afford the time. I get so much inspiration from looking and talking with the vendors. 

So please, please, if they do decide to give us one more try, put it on your calendar right now. The published date is October 10-11, 2009 if it doesn't get canceled. Columbia, SC is February 21-22 which is coming up soon. You could stop on your way to Myrtle Beach for an early vacation.

We all need your support right now if you expect the stamp companies to be around for us in the future.