2022 Convention … from one Bender’s Perspective.
Planning for the 2022 MFMR Convention was undoubtedly the most challenging thing we have ever done. It was the first convention post-Covid. We knew it would be an uphill battle and yet, we knew we had to make it happen. Many of the potential sponsors and merchants who in 2019 were excited to be involved were no longer able to offer their support. The number of registrations was a fraction of what it otherwise might have been. The layouts presented for the public show were fewer than what we had anticipated and public attendance numbers took a serious hit.
In spite of these obstacles it was the first convention to offer pay by tap at the door, a presentation for the general public introducing them to the hobby, and a few other “firsts.”
The bottom line: The highlight of the weekend was the “coming together in person” with many of our hobbyist friends for the first time in two years. That is where the real magic happened. When it is all said and done, even though we have done a good job of staying connected virtually for the past two years, nothing can equal the magic that happens when we come together in person. Any disappointments pale by comparison to the comraderie that happened in person on the convention weekend. And, it underscores the reasons we do it … in spite of the challenges … because it is well worth doing.
Everyone involved, from the organizers, to the sponsors, to the club members, even to the events staff at Acadia, made an all-out effort to make this convention a success and, in that regard, we nailed it. Thanks to all!