Event requests

Hi all,

While the planning for Anthrocon 2011 is underway, there are some very general guidelines that I would like to share with folks that may help in answering some of your event setup questions. Please keep this in mind when you are contemplating hosting an event.

* Events may not bring in their own food or beverage into the function rooms. This is against our space rental agreements with the hotel and the convention center. Events that Anthrocon hosts in our function space that provide any catering will always be provided by either the hotel or the convention center. This includes, but is not limited to: cookies, brownies, sandwiches, pizza, milk, soft drinks, and water. Please understand that if you request to host an event and plan to bring in outside food or drink, we must regreatably decline the request.

* All events must follow the Anthrocon code of conduct. Our function rooms are governed by the code of conduct, and as such, specific events are not permitted to violate the terms of the code of conduct. This includes, but is not limited to: brandishing or displaying weapons (even mock weapons), inappropriate activity in panel rooms (this can include jumping on furniture, roughhousing, and other activities which may cause damage to property or to convention attendees), and the sale of items or artwork outside of the dealer's room.

* We frequently have event requests that overlap each other in event description. For example, we have had instances where multiple people have asked for time to host fursuit games. We may limit the number of game sessions if there are in fact many people asking to host them. I would hope that folks would understand that such a decision is made with for the benefit of the overall convention attendance. Having too many of the same type of event may cause confusion for attendees.

* Some event requests may not be possible due to specific restrictions with our venues or local requirements. Case in point, this year we held a "balloon animal" event. This was deliberately scheduled in the Westin because of restrictions on latex balloons (and all helium ballons) in the DLCC. The event went very well, and the folks that held it understood why we could not host it in the DLCC. It's just part of doing business in that building.

* Some event requests are simply not germane to the overall convention. We try very hard to ensure than our panels and discussion groups have some kind of relevance to anthropomorphics or to the "furry" experience. Discussions about collecting baseball cards wouldn't fit into that description, but discussions about "Furries and Sports" does. So please understand that some panels may not be approved, because they don't fit with our theme or overall genre.

This is not an attempt to restrict folks from submitting panel requests. On the contrary, the strength of Anthrocon's programming comes from the fact that our attendees volunteer to host virtually every event on the schedule. Just keep in mind that there are many things that are reviewed when panels requests are reviewed. Anthrocon has some of the most diverse and interesting programming within the fandom. We hope to continue providing you with events that you will find informative, entertaining, or just plain fun.

KP