Gloucester MiniCon 2013 - Sunday 27th January

[Stuart]

Some info from Robey on the next MiniCon.

It's now been almost two months since MiniCon 2012. Let me begin by thanking you all for your tremendous contributions to the planning, organization and execution of the day's events. I think the idea that we should do it again in 2013 was agreed unanimously by all who attended. So, being aware that the clock is already ticking, it's time to start making plans. To that end, could I poll you all to look at a few issues that will help to shape how MiniCon evolves for its next incarnation.

1. Date. The proposed date for MiniCon 2013 is the last Sunday in January: that is, the 27th. This should be, again, the day after Crusade in Penarth. If anyone can think of a pressing reason why we shouldn't use this day, now is your chance to say so, otherwise we're going to push forward and update the website accordingly.

2. Venue. The Gloucester Centre for the Deaf was a great venue for the size of event we ran. I suggest that, with better publicity and the presumption of repeat attendance across the board, we should aim for a larger venue within our modest budget. This should be in either Cheltenham or Gloucester (or very near one of these), have suitable parking, support facilities (power, toilets, disabled access etc) and have at least 3 distinct spaces of different sizes that can be used for the day's activities. To being publicity, we need to settle quickly upon a venue, so all suggestions are welcome and I will, in concert with as many participants as possible, check out the suitability and price of all proposed venues ASAP.

3. Activities. I think it's fair to say that the continuing focus of the event should be the opportunity for attendees to join in the largest possible number of participation games. I think we should aim for 15-20 separate games in 2013 (so that should give an idea of the size of venue we want to occupy). We welcome input on whether we should continue to run one or more simultaneous tournaments or use the room to make space for more vendors. It has also been suggested that we should open up the participation games to boardgames, roleplay games and card games as well: please let us know your thoughts on this idea.

4. Initial Planning Meeting. I unilaterally suggest that we convene and initial planning meeting at the Gloucester Centre for the Deaf at 1830 on Wednesday 25th April. This will confirm the date, the venue and the activities based on feedback to the above points, and begin the process of organizing the event. I'll get an agenda out closer to the date and those who can't make it are welcome to send input, suggestions and thoughts that will be presented for consideration at the meeting.