| T O P I C R E V I E W |
| Erik Scott de Bie |
Posted - 19 Aug 2013 : 22:53:49
Hail and Well Met, Faerunians,
I am one of the organizers of the "Candlekeep Presents" seminars, and at this year we collected some thoughts about organizing the seminars going forward. Since the seminar is as much for all of us who love and support the Realms, I'd like to have your input to build it--that is, if you are interested in attending, what would work for you?
Answer any or all of the following, and your feedback will go into the thinking cauldron!
1) Date: Which day would you prefer for the seminar at GenCon? Possibilities are:
(a) Wednesday: pro = almost no conflicts, con = fewer people available that early in the con
(b) Thursday: pro = fewer conflicts, con = up against WotC's annual keynote/night with D&D thing
(c) Friday: pro = many attendees are around, con = up against the ENnies
(d) Saturday: pro = maximize attendance, con = people are a little tired near the end of the con
2) Time: The tentative plan is to do a 7pm - 10pm seminar, as that gives us a bit of time between the cutoff of 4-6pm seminars.
I also think the 4 hour length is a little too much: I think this year we covered in 4 hours about what we could cover in 3 hours.
3) Theme: Last year, we talked about the Realms in general and we have pins with a crest of the Cormyrian Purple Dragons. This year, our theme was the Harpers, and our pin was a Harper Pin. What should our theme be next year?
4) The Exchange of Gold: We really don't want to ask for money, but in putting together the seminars the last couple years, we've created all the pins and handouts out of pocket, and that can get pretty expensive, particularly if more people show up to the event next year. We were also considering getting some pizza or other food for the seminar. The more attendees contribute, the more we can afford to do.
Considering what's on offer--secrets, a giveaway of whatever we can put together, three hours with up to a dozen authors and designers, including Ed Greenwood, R.A. Salvatore, Jim Lowder, Richard Lee Byers, myself, the James Brothers, etc), the possibility of food--how much would you be willing to kick in to the seminar?
Thanks for input, everyone!
Cheers |
| 30 L A T E S T R E P L I E S (Newest First) |
| Garen Thal |
Posted - 04 Sep 2013 : 16:57:29
quote:
Originally posted by The Sage
Did you actually mean the SSI Pool of Radiance game for DOS/PC? I only ask, because I wasn't aware that a NES Realms game existed.
If that's the case, then I need to hunt down a copy.
Get hunting, sir. I indeed meant the one for the Nintendo. It had a blue label/box (rather than the gold box for the PC version), and was published by FCI rather than SSI, but it's basically just a port o the computer game.
Check eBay. There's usually at least 3-4 copies available. |
| The Sage |
Posted - 04 Sep 2013 : 16:41:48
Wholeheartedly agree with Brian's proposal for the next Candlekeep Seminar.
One query, though, which isn't directly related to what you were just saying...
quote:
Originally posted by Garen Thal
I don't care whether their only experience is the Pool of Radiance NES game, and they know nothing but Banite-infested Phlan.
Did you actually mean the SSI Pool of Radiance game for DOS/PC? I only ask, because I wasn't aware that a NES Realms game existed.
If that's the case, then I need to hunt down a copy. |
| Emma Drake |
Posted - 04 Sep 2013 : 16:31:36
quote:
Originally posted by Garen Thal
The Candlekeep Presents seminar is not the place for anyone to tell anyone else that they are experiencing the Forgotten Realms "wrong."
I fully intend for this gathering, whatever form it continues to take, to be a safe place for everyone to express their joy in experiencing the Realms.
.....
What I do care about is that everyone is kind and respectful to everyone else: fans, panelists, and the setting.
What that means is that it is all of our responsibility to be welcoming to all comers, even if you're unhappy about their favorite character or book, or think they're wrong for liking the changes brought about by the Spellplague, or think their favorite author is a hack, or don't like how they look in their costuming.
The Realms is, for many or most of us, the brightest gem among our hobbies. Candlekeep Presents is the largest and best opportunity for all of those folks to share that enjoyment in a shared environment. I want to keep it as comfortable as possible for all involved, and rejecting anyone else’s means of enjoying the Realms runs directly counter to that.
Amen. |
| Garen Thal |
Posted - 04 Sep 2013 : 16:17:24
Okay, the recent cosplay discussion gives me the opportunity to mention something that's been on my mind since I first conceived the Candlekeep seminar. I may seem a party-pooper, but here goes:
The Candlekeep Presents gatherings are for everyone who enjoys the Realms. It doesn't matter if they're coming to us from the fiction side or the tabletop gaming side or the computer games side. I don't care if they've loved the Realms since the first DRAGON articles or just played a module and want to learn more about the setting. I don't care whether their only experience is the Pool of Radiance NES game, and they know nothing but Banite-infested Phlan. I don't care whether someone is a cosplayer, a gamer, a reader, or just enjoyed the comic books. None of that matters.
The Candlekeep Presents seminar is not the place for anyone to tell anyone else that they are experiencing the Forgotten Realms "wrong."
I fully intend for this gathering, whatever form it continues to take, to be a safe place for everyone to express their joy in experiencing the Realms.
I don't care if there's a Drizzt cosplayer. I don't care if there are 50 Drizzt cosplayers. Because that's 50 people who are enjoying the Realms and coming together with other people enjoying the Realms. If Drizzt is their favorite character, they can all come as Drizzt and discuss what ideas they had to dye their cats black and put glowing green contacts in to create mini-Guens. [Disclaimer: Don't do that to your cat, please. Seriously.]
What I do care about is that everyone is kind and respectful to everyone else: fans, panelists, and the setting.
What that means is that it is all of our responsibility to be welcoming to all comers, even if you're unhappy about their favorite character or book, or think they're wrong for liking the changes brought about by the Spellplague, or think their favorite author is a hack, or don't like how they look in their costuming.
The Realms is, for many or most of us, the brightest gem among our hobbies. Candlekeep Presents is the largest and best opportunity for all of those folks to share that enjoyment in a shared environment. I want to keep it as comfortable as possible for all involved, and rejecting anyone else’s means of enjoying the Realms runs directly counter to that.
If anyone takes issue with my perspective here, please don’t clog the thread. Feel free to contact me via private message to discuss things further. |
| Markustay |
Posted - 04 Sep 2013 : 15:45:45
Hmmmmm... a duo you say?
Now who can I get to be my 'Asper'?  |
| Lord Bane |
Posted - 04 Sep 2013 : 08:09:44
So you can appear as Elminster in a duo? I am onto you sir! |
| The Sage |
Posted - 04 Sep 2013 : 03:26:46
quote:
Originally posted by Wooly Rupert
quote:
Originally posted by Lord Bane
Realms cosplay? I shudder in horror of the legions of Drizzt clones. 
I'm more concerned about the Simbul costume that Sage was talking about wearing... 
Try as I might... I just can't convince the Lady K to work at this in my stead.  |
| Kentinal |
Posted - 03 Sep 2013 : 21:47:27
quote:
Originally posted by Wooly Rupert
What is the proper terminology for a group of slave Leias? A Force? A barge? A dream?
Well maybe a nightmare, other option might be a sorority. *G* |
| Wooly Rupert |
Posted - 03 Sep 2013 : 21:37:57
What is the proper terminology for a group of slave Leias? A Force? A barge? A dream? |
| Lord Bane |
Posted - 03 Sep 2013 : 21:31:54
There can never be enough slave Leias.... granted the optic is pleasing to the eyes |
| Ashe Ravenheart |
Posted - 03 Sep 2013 : 20:51:15
quote:
Originally posted by Lord Bane
Don´t get me wrong, i have nothing against cosplayer 
I just find it silly when you have a congregation of several drizzt and all claim to be him. I mean where is the innovation and do someone else? He is overhyped imo.
I feel the same way with all the Jack Sparrows, slave Leias, and Batmans. |
| Lord Bane |
Posted - 03 Sep 2013 : 20:46:17
Don´t get me wrong, i have nothing against cosplayer
I just find it silly when you have a congregation of several drizzt and all claim to be him. I mean where is the innovation and do someone else? He is overhyped imo. |
| Emma Drake |
Posted - 03 Sep 2013 : 20:23:46
quote:
Originally posted by Lord Bane
Realms cosplay? I shudder in horror of the legions of Drizzt clones.
People cosplay drizzt anyway, heh. Some of them quite well, I have to add. |
| Wooly Rupert |
Posted - 03 Sep 2013 : 19:43:32
quote:
Originally posted by Lord Bane
Realms cosplay? I shudder in horror of the legions of Drizzt clones.
I'm more concerned about the Simbul costume that Sage was talking about wearing... |
| Lord Bane |
Posted - 03 Sep 2013 : 19:29:37
Realms cosplay? I shudder in horror of the legions of Drizzt clones. |
| Emma Drake |
Posted - 03 Sep 2013 : 18:13:39
quote:
Originally posted by Markustay
I'd be more comfortable with a 'The Dales' or 'Cormyr' theme, because I am far more familiar with that region, but if the majority wants 'Waterdeep', then so be it. It would actually make a lot of sense if they are going to be releasing an expansion around that time (to tie everything together). I guess I can always go as Mirt...
Hmmmm.. I wouldn't need much in the way of makeup... maybe I just figured out why I dislike the guy so much. 
I suggested to someone, I think it was James Wyatt, that WotC should do a little Realms cosplay competition each year, as it's a growing hobby and people then become walking advertisements for the setting. No indication that they're interested, but I'm doing a Realms cosplay again (maybe even two!) and I'm even trying to wrangle a group. Because dressing up is fun! :) |
| Markustay |
Posted - 03 Sep 2013 : 17:13:57
Ah, dang it... anyone want to trade? I have a limited-1st-edition.
Anyhow, I was just 'making light' above - very tongue-in-cheek (hope it came off that way). However, I did have a great time 'next door', despite my complete dislike of Lovecraftian stuff. I guess my point was, make it fun; build it, and they will come.
I have no idea how this year's went off, but last year's CK seminar was a hoot - Ed and James Lowder came off as a comedy duet - it was amazing. More like that, with food... and dancing girls. 
I'd be more comfortable with a 'The Dales' or 'Cormyr' theme, because I am far more familiar with that region, but if the majority wants 'Waterdeep', then so be it. It would actually make a lot of sense if they are going to be releasing an expansion around that time (to tie everything together). I guess I can always go as Mirt...
Hmmmm.. I wouldn't need much in the way of makeup... maybe I just figured out why I dislike the guy so much. |
| Erik Scott de Bie |
Posted - 03 Sep 2013 : 16:58:06
quote:
Originally posted by Markustay
Why not a Harper pin?
With all the magical niftiness to go with it...
That was this year, MT. Sorry you missed it!
Thanks for all the feedback. I'll get together with Brian and the James Brothers and hammer out a cost estimate. As I said, I like this event being free or as inexpensive as possible, but a little money in trade for a lot of coolness is reasonable.
Cheers |
| Markustay |
Posted - 02 Sep 2013 : 20:36:44
Why not a Harper pin?
With all the magical niftiness to go with it...
Not keen on either Waterdeep or The Sundering being the theme - I think Candlekeep itself is a theme, but whatever.
While waiting for last year's CK seminar, I went next door to a Cthulhu thingy (of all things!) just to ward-off boredom, and was pleasantly surprised... those folks know how to party! Please find the young woman who wore little more then a string wrapped around her body... I know she kept me in my seat until the very end (and made me late to the CK seminar). Scantily clad women (and men for the ladies... and others...) should be a given, considering the complete lack of morality in FR. Some booze, food, a rousing session of 'pin the tail on the 4e designer', strip-MtG, etc... and maybe, if we still have time, a very small discussion about FR (but only if we have time after all the fun stuff).
Barring some sort of catastrophic event, I have every intention of being there next year.  |
| Nai_Calus |
Posted - 02 Sep 2013 : 06:24:18
No clue yet if I'll be able to do 2014 or not, but if I can I'm so there.
Date: Friday or Saturday win for me. I prefer Friday, but yeah Ennies issues.
Time: Why not, say, 9am to noon? Earlier in the day means people are more awake, and doesn't conflict with any major events. Gives time for breakfast and ends right at lunch. Failing that, 7-10 is pretty good.
Theme: Elves, but I am biased horribly. ;) Waterdeep is pretty good as a theme though.
Cost: I'm down with donations or tickets. Honestly, games cost too, and this panel was probably the best part of the con for me. :) I pay anywhere from 4-8 dollars to play in a game at the con, and 3 hours of awesome stories and discussion is well worth paying for for me, even without the extras. With the awesome pins and such, it's even better. So yeah, I'd totally be down with either. $5-10? |
| George Krashos |
Posted - 23 Aug 2013 : 06:07:17
Erik, if you can, why don't you do a costing of what the total cost of the event would be in terms of food, pins, et. al. and post the anticipated cost here at the 'Keep and invite people who are attending to pledge donations? I know that might turn out to be inexact, but it will give a ballpark idea of whether what needs to be done can be pre-funded.
-- George Krashos
|
| The Sage |
Posted - 23 Aug 2013 : 05:36:40
I think I'd prefer a theme drawn from a lesser-used locale.
It would be a perfect opportunity to draw attention to, and develop further, a new theme for these kinds of forgotten/overlooked cities.
|
| Wooly Rupert |
Posted - 22 Aug 2013 : 18:01:23
Several folks have mentioned Waterdeep for a theme... I'm a huge fan of the City of Splendors, and getting a pin with the Waterdeep coat of arms would be truly nifty. |
| Erik Scott de Bie |
Posted - 22 Aug 2013 : 17:00:56
Thanks for the feedback, everyone! A couple clarifying points:
1) ENnie conflict: This has little to do with the attendees and more to do with the authors/designers. Ed is almost always involved in some way with the ENnies, and a number of others are either required or just really want to go. So that's why it's an issue--not because I doubt the strength of Candlekeep Scribes's convictions.
2) Money: The real issue I see with this is that I love having the event be free and open to all. We could charge for entry (and take generic tickets as well), but we'd get fewer attendees and fewer walk-ins. Maybe we could set it up where if you contribute to the suggested donation box, you'd get a pin, and if you want food, there's money for that too. Hmm . . .
I like the concept of GoFundMe or something like that to help keep the event financially stable as well.
Keep the thoughts coming! I'm digesting them all.
Cheers |
| The Red Walker |
Posted - 22 Aug 2013 : 03:18:46
quote:
Originally posted by BEAST
Since "The Sundering" is the big event in the Realms for the time being, why not use a fancy version of The Sundering's logo for the pin?
Or how about a nice version of the Forgotten Realms logo (like the 1E version)?
Has a canon seal ever been established for the Candlekeep Library?
i love the old school realms logo as well as the candlekeep pin idea |
| BEAST |
Posted - 21 Aug 2013 : 22:02:47
Since "The Sundering" is the big event in the Realms for the time being, why not use a fancy version of The Sundering's logo for the pin?
Or how about a nice version of the Forgotten Realms logo (like the 1E version)?
Has a canon seal ever been established for the Candlekeep Library? |
| EytanBernstein |
Posted - 21 Aug 2013 : 21:55:35
Wednesday is almost always best for me. I usually have obligations every other night of the Con. Alternatively, Sunday morning. |
| Ashe Ravenheart |
Posted - 21 Aug 2013 : 18:13:01
I will pay extraordinary sums of money for the Harper Pin. Seriously. Or whatever else anyone might want.
1) I'm good with any days. I can understand both the professional and attendant reasons about going up against the Keynote and ENnnies, however. My personal preference would probably be Wednesdays or Fridays.
2) The 7-10pm is good, since it's rare that you're rushing to anything at 10pm (unless you're me and you didn't think through the end time vs. the start time of the Burlesque show ).
3) Waterdeep. Could do pins for Blackstaff, Blackstaff Tower, Undermountain, etc.
4) I'd be willing to pay for it! (And I'm not kidding, if anyone has an extra Harper pin or is willing to give theirs up, I will pay handsomely.) |
| Emma Drake |
Posted - 21 Aug 2013 : 17:10:42
I was actually going to suggest some sort of meet and greet on another thread, but since Kris and AngerZen have piped up about it...
I would love to put some faces with (screen)names. I was in a room full of people, whom I now realize are Candlekeep scribes, and had no idea who was who. What a missed opportunity for social nerd-dom!
I'd be happy (along with Kris) to help organize this. The way I see it, you can go three ways with it. Either you find a bar/restaurant and reserve space, you charge money and provide finger foods and beer/sodas (though I don't know if there may be rules about this and it may be that you can't provide alcohol at GenCon events without some sort of special permission - I'd have to research it), or you find an existing social event where we can go.
If the brewery area near the food trucks was open later than 11, that would be perfect. Unfortunately, it's not and I don't see us being able to get in any sort of decent social time before 11. It also cuts out anyone under 21 as they card people going into that area. I'm all about being inclusive so that's a big con in my book. One of my comrades went to a dance in the Crowne Plaza (which was free to get into) this year on Saturday and was really impressed with the mix of ages, set-up, and the fact that while there was music enough to dance, it wasn't so loud as to overwhelm conversation if people wanted to break off in groups to chat. You could also buy beverages there, though I don't think any food was available. Might be a viable option.
Should I start another scroll to foster a discussion about this? |
| angerZen |
Posted - 21 Aug 2013 : 16:56:03
1) I don't have any specific day in mind, but I think I'd prefer the event to happen later in the con rather than earlier. I thought this years time slot (aside from butting up against the WotC event) was a decent time for the event.
2) Again, I prefer later rather than earlier. I do like Kris the Grey's idea of a sort of after-event gathering for beverages somewhere. After this year's event, a nice craft beer sounded really good.
3) Theme: I'm open to whatever. To me, there really isn't a bad topic when it comes to FR.
4) Money: I'm fine with either a ticket price, or a donation box. I think a ticket price would work better as a donation box is easier to ignore. Honestly, I'd be happy to pay $10 per ticket for this event if it meant you guys wouldn't have to worry about paying for food/goodies/whatever for the event. |
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