You
lucky bastards.
I've
been a part of many conventions, and I've even
written a few letters in acknowledgment of the
exceptional ones. But the letters have been few
and far between. Happily, I must add one more
to the list.
GATECON
UK is one of a kind.
If
you were there, you know what I'm talking about.
If you weren't (and are considering a Convention),
know that it was an experience few of us will
soon forget. I personally found a spirit of celebration
and community unique to the world of Cons. The
location itself, Cheltenham, England, is worth
the price of admission. But add to that... Exceptional
hospitality. Professionalism. Warm and courteous
staff. Great guests and parties... and you have,
not only great value for the money, but the makings
for one hell of a weekend.
But
one cannot equate a ticket price to things such
as 'spirit'. For that, no money can buy. And I
don't think I've ever been to a Convention where
I wanted to spend more time with the Fans and
Volunteers than I did this weekend. My contract
'obliged' me to certain tasks... Panels, photos
and the like. But after about an hour at Gatecon
UK, I no longer felt obliged to be there. I felt
honored.
And
so, I say to any SG-Fans out there looking for
something special, book your tickets for the next
one, today. And to you 'Actors' out there. If
you are ever contacted by Kathryn Rogers and granted
an invitation to be a 'Guest' of GateCon UK, you
may want to consider throwing your 'rate' out
the window. And just hop the next plane out of
town.
To:
Kathryn, Ian, Richard and Alan.
Wow.
Sincerely,
Colin Cunningham