Re: [Harp-L] SPAH 2009

[Bill Hines <billhines4@xxxxxxxxx>]

I agree with Venky and Richard - I wasn't at SPAH this year but I was 
last year in STL and had the same observations as Richard. Let's put the 
jam issue aside, that's not going to change. But organizationally I was 
pretty frustrated and disappointed in St Louis that it was hard to tell 
what was where and what it was going to be about and how to find it. Not 
knowing for sure what was going to be offered, I would have never gone 
though if I wasn't already there for business.

The organization would do well to supplement the staff at the hotel or 
professional organizers (it can't be that much for the basics) to do a 
little of that typical 'convention' stuff. This is not something for 
'amateurs' in most cases although the clubs do an admirable job to pull 
of something like this at all.

also I had at times considered making some attempt to get the 
Sacramento, but again not having a solid agenda ahead of time, no way. I 
have the same problem with other festivals as well though. maybe the 
folks who went there had the best time ever but some who just couldn't 
make the leap without the proper information sure couldnt' have a good time!

don't take those comments as criticisms, just suggestions for 
improvement from the peanut gallery.

Bill