posted
Hello all, and greetings from beautiful downtown Adam's Basin, NY (pop. 70ish)!
I'm posting a list of the larger, national trade shows that relate to the sign industry.
I'm posting this, in hopes, that as you all gather in Quebec City, and Tomahawk, and the conversations turn to planning next year's event, you might take these dates into consideration as less-than-ideal. I can only speak for myself, and the SignGold Corp, (although I know other vendors/manufacturers feel the same way), in hoping that dates that don't conflict with our show schedule be considered, so that we might be more involved.
On a related note, I'm sure you will all enjoy yourselves at BOTH events...we've sent some material for your use and enjoyment, and hope that everyone travels safely.
APR 14-17, 2004 ISA Show, Orlando, FL JUNE 3-5, 2004 Sign Business, Indianapolis, IN AUG 12-14,2004 Sign Business, Long Beach, CA SEPT 23-25, 2004 Sign Business, Charlotte, NC DEC 2-4, 2004 USSC SignWorld, Atlantic City, NJ
I also know that Mike Meyer is hosting an event Feb 5-7th, 2004.
Keep on keepin' on, Brian Briskie
Posts: 465 | From: / | Registered: Jan 2000
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posted
Great idea to post those dates Brian. I see that the Dixie Meet in SC won't conflict. Hopefully others will make note of the dates you have posted, in order to avoid any conflicts.
-------------------- Dave Grundy retired in Chelem,Yucatan,Mexico/Hensall,Ontario,Canada 1-519-262-3651 Canada 011-52-1-999-102-2923 Mexico cell 1-226-785-8957 Canada/Mexico home
posted
One suggestion may be to post these events on the future meets page, so that if someone is planning an event they only have to consult one page. Steve?
-------------------- Alf Toy Adlib Graphics Saskatoon, SK Canada
posted
Good Idea Alfred... That would of course, be up to the Shortreed's, but it would at least keep these dates in front of people, as they start to plan future events.
I would also hope fellow residents and vistors understood WHY those dates were there...not to promote a "commercial" event, but rather to serve as a reference for anyone considering planning and hosting an event.
Keep on keepin' on,
Brian Briskie
Posts: 465 | From: / | Registered: Jan 2000
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posted
If I were planning an event, I would certainly like to make sure I don't conflict with any sign related event, it would be short sighted to think that commercial interests are getting free advertising. But on the other hand considering how much is spent on advertising some of these commercial events maybe they could spin some dollars for placing the dates on the events page.
-------------------- Alf Toy Adlib Graphics Saskatoon, SK Canada
posted
Letterhead Events are very different from other sign related shows. Letterhead events are hosted by Letterheads for Letterheads and/or PinHeads. Sign trade shows are hosted by Sign Associations and/or private enterprizes with the main goal being profit.
Nothing wrong with that. If you want to see the latest technologies, that is the place to go. These organizations spend thousands of dollars advertising their shows in trade magazines and other mediums. Why should they get free promotion here?
As a Letterhead, I frankly feel out of my element at these shows. My age and personal circumstances probally have much to do with this, but there is really not much of interest to me at trade shows.
A couple examples. We attended the ISA show in Orlando a couple years back. It was our second visit to that show. We also attended the Canadian Sign Association show in Toronto.
There's the usual paint guys doing their demos for the companies they work for, but these days, paint and brush people are disappearing fast. At some meets afew Letterheads are given some special perks, like free rooms or booths, to create a Letterhead/PinHead Meet within the sign industry show. It's a great marketing idea, but I'd rather attend the real thing and avoid all the LED and crane stuff.
And what about the signs and displays at these shows. Whatever happened to sign design? It's not uncomman to see ugly, homemade marker on paper signs. As Letterheads and sign making professionals, design is everything to us. Why do I get the feeling most of these sign show exhibitor's only interest in our craft is money?
I can't help but wonder if things arn't mixed up here. Letterheads write 90% of the articles in our trade magazines. Letterhead signs and vehicles have dominated the sign contests for 20 years. Why arn't more of our suppliers investing in a presence at Letterhead Meets instead of focusing on expensive trade shows?
I know I'm going to raise a few hackles here. My circumstances and experiences could very well be different than yours. I may have even took my Prozac a little late today.
I'd like to setup a Letterville Poll on attendance at trade shows. Any suggestions on how the poll should be worded and/or the choices?
-------------------- Steve Shortreed 144 Hill St., E. Fergus, Ontario Canada N1M 1G9 519-787-2673
posted
I am with you Steve, when I go to Atlantic City to the trade show, I head straight for the Bullpen and the Letterheads. As for age, well all the computer related technology is left to my son. He tours the booths while I play with the brush. If there were no Bullpen, no A.C. for me.
On the other hand, I must admit that they treated me well just for participating in the Bullpen. One Shot is number one with most of us brush jockeys.
-------------------- Bill Riedel Riedel Sign Co., Inc. 15 Warren Street Little Ferry, N.J. 07643 billsr@riedelsignco.com Posts: 2953 | From: Little Ferry, New Jersey, USA | Registered: Feb 1999
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I hope (but I think)...my point's being missed here. I'm not suggesting that a listing of shows be here for any other reason, than to provide that information at a glance; so as perhaps NOT to plan a letterhead/pinhead event at the same time.
By planning letterhead/pinhead events at times OTHER than the same time as trade shows...it's easier to justify involvement, with both bodies and financial support, by the manufacturers withen the trade. Simplified..plan your event when we DON'T have to be at a show..and we can try to support that event more, with money, materials, and people.
It's (not to sound like a broken record), with financial support from vendors, that letterhead/pinhead events are kept affordable. I know that for the event in Waukesha two years ago, SignGold Corp wrote a pretty big check to help pay for food, hence a "meal sponsor". We did so in conjunction with another manufacturer who also really wants to support the events. That saved every attendee about $17.00 each . And other companies wrote checks as well...you get my point.
This year, we didn't even have to make the heartwrenching decision WHICH event to sponsor...they both conflicted with a national trade show.
Steve..I know what you mean about trade shows. They aren't meant to be be letterhead events.
Bill...you know I have nothing but the utmost respect for you, so PLEASE don't take what I'm saying here the wrong way: but when you rush past the vendors at the USSC show in Atlantic City, and head straight to the bullpen...you have to keep in mind that all the materials you're working with there...and the food...and the 1,500 sq. ft. of space the bullpen occupies, was paid for by the USSC, (an organization that works hard to put together that trade show), and vendors, who generously donate the very supplies that they sell to put food on THEIR tables )after paying HUUUUGE amounts of money for booth space, shipping displays, paying personel, and their flights, hotels and food)
We, as manufacturers, distributors and professional trade organizations, genuinely care about preserving the craftsmanship, purveying the knowledge, and keeping the craft alive. We're not just shirts and ties and shipping data and accounts recievables...many of us are also tradespeople, and patrons, and huge fans.
Steve and Barb do this trade such a huge service via this website. History will show them to be outstanding patrons of the trade. And just like many of the manufacturers, they started out with a small sign shop. But I also know that advertising space is sold here to help pay for the site.
And vendor's advertising dollars keep the magazines in circulation.
And vendor's donations are working with Tod Swormstedt to build an American Sign Museum.
That's what vendors do. Support the movement.
Keep on keepin' on,
Brian Briskie.
ok..the opinions expressed here are solely my own, and do not neccesarily reflect that of..you know the drill.
Posts: 465 | From: / | Registered: Jan 2000
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quote: Letterheads write 90% of the articles in our trade magazines. Letterhead signs and vehicles have dominated the sign contests for 20 years.
But, the magazines that the Letterheads write for probably wouldn't exist if not for the commercial interests, unfortunately. To what extent does Letterville rely on commercial dollars? Would Letterville exist at all if you did not have those dollars? How much would it cost to put a blurb for a trade show on the events page? Your event listed on this page for $100?
[ August 10, 2003, 09:03 PM: Message edited by: Alfred Toy ]
-------------------- Alf Toy Adlib Graphics Saskatoon, SK Canada
posted
This reminds me of a conversation I had with the head of marketing at major softwear company a few years back. He went on about how much money they invest in our "sign industry" via advertising in trade mags and the hundreds of thousands of dollars invested in big trade shows. In the end, he actually chuckled and informed me that big corporate suppliers like their company actually were "the sign industry."
When he finished, I had a couple questions of my own for him.
Where does all the profit he brags about reinvesting come from? Where does the salary these young, arrogant, book smart marketing types earn really come from anyway?
You don't have to be a business genious to realize the money they are so graciously reinvesting, comes from small sign shops like yours and mine. There are some huge, corporate sign and outdoor sign companies, but I believe the vast majority of the real "sign industry" are the thousands of smaller Mom and Pop type shops we meet everyday here in Letterville.
With that in mind, my second question was how the average Joe would benefit from this generous reinvestment. I'm sorry, but I just don't see many of the signmakers I have met over the last 25 years attending these shows. Some are there as paid manufacturer reps, but most small shops simply are too busy to attend. Many suppliers have informed me that the bigger shows are geared more towards distributors than sign makers.
I can well understand why my friend the marketing guy was so thrilled with their investment in big trade shows. It means an all expense paid trip to exotic locations like Las Vegas, Florida, Atlantic City, etc, etc. In many cases, the whole sales team gets snappy new jackets to boot. If you attend the show and purchase the latest updates and/or gizmos, has the whole sign industry benefited?
Alf asks a good question. Would we have sign magazines and other perks without the unselfish investment of supplier money? Will the Letterhead Meet of the future become just another trade show sponsored by big corporations? I sure hope not.
I hope it never becomes necessary, but Letterville can survive without advertising income. It was after my encounter with the marketing guy, that we realized we could not serve two masters. We had to make a major decision that day.
Would we compromise everything we envisioned for Letterville in order to "play ball" with this company? He made it very clear that their future as a Letterville Merchant depended on my decision. We miss that company's participation in Letterville, but at this time in our lives, some things are more important than money.
That was also the day we realized just how important Residents were to Letterville. It's your financial support that guarantees Letterville always remains as a voice for small sign makers, especially those of the Letterhead faith.
I really hope I don't give impression of being anti-supplier. The real truth is that manufacturer, distributor and end user all depend on each other. Barb and I arrived at this point as sign shop owners and fanatical Letterheads. Our main interest has always been others that followed the same path as ourselves and we hope Letterville always remains dedicated to these people.
Any of this make any sence?
-------------------- Steve Shortreed 144 Hill St., E. Fergus, Ontario Canada N1M 1G9 519-787-2673
posted
I am sorry if I stepped on a Sign Business Show for French Kiss A Brush date.
When I set the final date last september, my only reference was Signcraft Magazine(bullboard page), Sign Business Magazine(bulletin page) and Letterville website. Nothing was announced at this time. The Orlando show was first announced in Sign Business magazine in the october issue.
**** happens. It's unfortunate but it's very hard to coordinate that amount of events without stepping on others. I know that when Tomahawks meet date was set they only had one week-end left with the chamber of commerce and harley-davidson stuff, what can have be done is this situation?
I learned the hard way, and I understand now. letterheads are 10,000 peoples and there is only 52 week-ends in a year. Most of the shows are in the summer time, between april and september. That does'nt leave much room!
Having all the 'heads at the same time in the same place is now a fantasy that does'nt belong to reality!
However, thanks Brian for posting those date, so everybody can be aware long time in advance. That would have be nice to have you here in Quebec!!
-------------------- Pierre Tardif P. Tardif Inc. 1006 boul. PIE-XI sud Val-Belair QC. Canada G3K 1L2 418-847-4089 pierre@ptardif.com Posts: 800 | From: Quebec city | Registered: Aug 2002
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posted
Steve and Barb, I wonder if perhaps something could be arranged wherein, you post the dates of the trade shows, and in exchange for that, the sanctioning organizations (I.S.A., U.S.S.C., and N.B.M.) could reciprocate with a banner/link, to the letterville site from their respective sites?
Just a thought.
Brian Briskie
Posts: 465 | From: / | Registered: Jan 2000
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You are missing Brian's point. The idea here is simply to offer people who want to host a meet the dates of other industry events so that they don't plan the meet to conflict with a trade show. That's all. It's not about sponsorship. Suppliers cannot choose a letterhead meet over an industry event, because of financial concerns. The Letterhead movement will significantly benefit from having their events planned around the industry trade shows, because suppliers can attend in addition to the events they cannot skip.
I hope I have restated Brian's point in a clearer way.
[ August 12, 2003, 02:32 PM: Message edited by: Mark Smith ]
-------------------- Best Regards, Mark Smith EstiMate Sign Pricing Software It's Not Luck. It's EstiMate.™ http://www.EstiMateSoftware.com 1-888-304-3300 Posts: 724 | From: Asheville, NC, USA | Registered: Nov 1998
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As long as prejudice remains, I doubt any “points” will be received no matter how clearly it is stated or illustrated.
I for one applaud the effort put forth with the intent of this and the previous post and feel confident that the awareness level relative to the issue has in fact been increased. Will it eliminate any future conflicts? “I” doubt it, but it has been brought into the conscience mindset to some and just may reduce the number for future conflicts.
Thanks again Brian for the attmpt.
Think small, be small!
[ August 12, 2003, 03:32 PM: Message edited by: Bob Gilliland ]
-------------------- Bob Gilliland InKnowVative Communications Harrisburg PA, USA
"The U.S. Constitution doesn't guarantee happiness, only the pursuit of it. You have to catch up with it yourself." Benjamin Franklin Posts: 642 | From: Harrisburg, PA, USA | Registered: Nov 1998
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posted
Please explain the prejudice you are referring to Bob? Are you talking about a preference for Letterhead/PinHead Meets vs sign industry trade shows?
Do you mean sign shops in general or just this website? Please elaborate.
-------------------- Barb Shortreed 144 Hill St. E. Fergus, Ontario Posts: 2380 | From: Fergus, Ont. | Registered: Sep 2000
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I think the fact that a lot of us do not attend the trade shows is the BEST reason for posting these dates.
What Brian is saying is that he and other suppliers CAN NOT attend both. If the Letterhead meets are planned around the trade shows, there is a much better cahnce we will be able to meet Brian (and lots of others) in person.
This is of more benefit to those who do not attend trade shows, or do not visit the booths while there. It affords us the opportunity to meet these people in person, and discuss thier products on a one on one basis.
I agree that Steve should not advertise locations, contacts, etc. for free, but a simple listing of the dates could be useful as Brian stated to prevent conflicting dates.
I hope this makes some kind of sense to somebody.
-------------------- Don Hulsey Strokes by DON signs Utica, KY 270-275-9552 sbdsigns@aol.com
I've always been crazy... but it's kept me from going insane. Posts: 2319 | From: Utica, KY U.S.A. | Registered: Jan 1999
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posted
I'll make a deal with you Brian. If you can show me that ST, SBI, AMAL and SignCraft advertise these events for free, I'll do the same.
These are not Letterhead Meets. The Associations and Publishing companies organize these gatherings to generate maximum profit. In many cases, a portion of your room fee is given back to the organizers. Thousands of dollars are spent on mailing out expensive flyers and/or information packages, thousands more are spent on celeberty speakers from sports to military. I'll bet most can't even paint a sign.
We're Letterville...A Community Of Letterheads. We'll do anything we can to promote, attend and publicize Letterhead and Pinhead meets at no cost. Afterall, these are the people this website are dedicated to.
We're also capitalists. I believe that is still ok in our western World. Letterville is also our fulltime job. Why is it ok for everyone from printers to astronauts to financially benefit from these shows that you expect us to promote for free?
BTW...I've already made a few calls to confirm that mags are paid well, thru expensive advertising agencies, to advertise these non Letterhead Events. Just call me Greedy Steve.
-------------------- Steve Shortreed 144 Hill St., E. Fergus, Ontario Canada N1M 1G9 519-787-2673
Here's another spin on it: why don't you create a calendar of events for the whole sign industry, and feature it prominently on the site. Maybe even buy a url that links directly to that page.
Then write a press release and send it to all the magazines - they really do print them, and promptly - announcing the new industry calendar.
Everyone wins!
1) Sign shop owners have a calendar - it's much needed. 2) Magazines have exciting, useful news to print. 3) Letterville gets serious exposure.
I would never pass on an opportunity like this one, why would you?
-------------------- Best Regards, Mark Smith EstiMate Sign Pricing Software It's Not Luck. It's EstiMate.™ http://www.EstiMateSoftware.com 1-888-304-3300 Posts: 724 | From: Asheville, NC, USA | Registered: Nov 1998
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Forget I even mentioned it. You're still 180 degrees off from where I am.
I'm not asking you to ADVERTISE their shows at all, no less for free.
For whatever reason, I'm unable to convey my message. I'm going to make this statement one last time.
BY LISTING THE DATES OF MAJOR TRADE SHOWS, PERHAPS THE PEOPLE WHO PLAN THE VARIOUS LETTERHEAD/PINHEAD EVENTS CAN CHOOSE ALTERNATE DATES. BY DOING SO, MANY MANUFACTURERS CAN PLAN TO ATTEND AND SUPPORT THOSE LETTERHEAD EVENTS.
At least of few of you have gotten my point.
And Steve..just so you have it straight..this is a two-way street we live and work on. Those trade magazines, like Sign Craft, Sign Business, Signs of the Times and A Magazine About Letterheads...YES INDEED, they charge advertising dollars for ADVERTISING those shows. But whether they buy ad space or not, those shows get LISTED in an events column for free. FOR THE GOOD OF THEIR SUBSCRIBERS.
And ya know what? DIG THIS???!!!
Those same magazines, like Sign Business who is the promoter of the show in Orlando next week..they list and provide coverage for LETTERHEAD/PINHEAD EVENTS for free.
I tried to help. You're just so set in your beliefs that trade shows are a waste of time...and that the Letterhead community doesn't need them; that I'm not going to change your mind
I didn't think my perspective was so unique. I've been striping and airbrushing for more than 25 years. I opened a small sign shop in Western New York more than 20 years ago. I still get up every morning, loving what I do for a living, and go to the shop. (and actually, I also own a custom paint shop as well...so 65 hour weeks are fairly common.) I attended my first letterhead event in '88. I get to at least 3-4 letterhead/pinhead events a year. I'm forever trying to better myself, from both a creative as well as a financial point of view.
It just so happens that I got good enough at what I did, that a company asked me about doing contract work for them. Nearly 5 years later, I'm still working for them, carrying a (FREE)tech phone weekdays, working trade shows, designing all of their promotional materials...
So what am I.. a letterhead in the trueist sense of the word? I think so. A good businessperson? I'd like to think so. Not everyone who works the trade show circuit is some under-qualified, self promoting clown. I do it for MORE THAN THE SNAPPY NEW JACKET AND THE OH-SO_GLORIOUS TRIPS TO VEGAS (lemme tell ya..I travel a LOT and it's a drag most of the time...13-14 hour days on the road). And yeah...they pay me pretty well to do what I do. But ya know what, I FIRMLY BELIEVE THAT I'M DOING SOMETHING GOOD. I HELP PEOPLE EVERY DAY. MY CUSTOMERS, ON THE TECH PHONE OR AT OUR BOOTH AT A SHOW, ARE GLAD THAT I WALK THEM THROUGH A PROCEEDURE THAT THEY AREN'T FAMILIAR WITH. And the company I work for doesn''t charge them for that help.
The manufactureres are NOT all money-counting, shallow, trade-bleeding bad guys. Some of us...many of us in fact, would like to help out the trade, and it's tradespeople, when we can.
If you'd rather..CHOOSE some the aforementioned dates to INSURE that some of these companies can't participate. The economy is tight these days, and I'm sure that the savings the manufacturers see will make somebody's day brighter. It just won't be the letterhead follower who can't afford the entry fee, as no manufacturers could justify writing a check to help offset the cost of the event.
In closing, this is BRIAN BRISKIE spouting off and shrugging his shoulders in frustration, NOT the SignGold Corporation, whom I'm proud to work for.
Sorry I missed the target.
Brian Briskie
Posts: 465 | From: / | Registered: Jan 2000
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posted
I've got a copy of my latest issue of SignCraft, AMAL and AutoArt sitting in front of me. I admit my eyesight is not what it used to be, but I can find no mention of any industry trade shows at all. I trust you guys will get on their cases as well.
At this point, it really dosen't matter. This whole topic is getting overheated. I'm not sure any of us are really understanding each others positions. I had a good talk with Bob Gilliland earlier tonight and I'm trying to call you too Brian. We'll get together via phone sometime tomorrow.
In the meantime, I'd like to propose a possible compromise. What if we were to list the non Letterhead/PinHead tradeshows on the Events Page? The listings would be linked to a list of Letterville Merchants that will have booths at that particular show. From there our users can go directly to that Merchants Website where they can learn all the particulars. Merchants can inform us on what booth they are in, what they will be showing and any other special events that their company will be offering at that particular trade show.
The users of Letterville will be able to see a list of future trade shows, Letterville Merchants will get a plug and some additional visitors to their own websites. Steve and Barb will hopefully keep some valued friends and Merchants.
I'm a stubborn guy. It's regretful that all these meets had to fall on the same day. I haven't changed my stand on Letterhead Meets. If you can only get to one live meet this year, I still believe a Letterhead/PinHead Meet is your best choice. What can I say? I've been obsessed with Letterheads since my first meet in 1983.
So what do you guys think? Can we bury the hatchet? There is only one potential problem I can see with this change of policy. By opening the door to sign realted tradeshows, we'll also get requests from those holding SEMA and other automotive related industry shows. Then there are the screenprinter shows, advertising art shows, etc. Could end up being a long list. But maybe not! I'm probally just worried over nothing.
-------------------- Steve Shortreed 144 Hill St., E. Fergus, Ontario Canada N1M 1G9 519-787-2673
It's obvious that if you posted anything, it would be against your best wishes and beliefs.That would be the wrong thing to do.
I'd never ask any man to compromise his integrity, so I will abstain from any further comments regarding trade shows. You don't like them, and it's not my place to try and convince you otherwise. In fact, I respect you for standing up for what you think is right.
I never got my point accross, which can be noone's fault but my own.
You could have even just posted "NATIONAL TRADE SHOW THIS WEEKEND" with the dates. No who. Not where. Nothing. I never wanted you to "advertise" them.
I'm bowing out of this thread here...an I apologize for any elevated emotions or misconstrued criticisms.
Keep on keepin' on,
Regards,
Brian Briskie
Posts: 465 | From: / | Registered: Jan 2000
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posted
Brian, were you involved with Signgold when you were in Mars? You could've fooled me. I didn't recall seeing you in the venders' area. Only in the project/panel painting area, doing what most Letterheads/Pinheads like to do at meets. Paint!
If what this post boils down to is that you miss the involvement, then you probably shouldn't have brought the vender-only aspect into it. I don't know if you & Steve ever met, but if he saw what you did in Mars, he'd better understand your frustration in not being able to attend a "real" meet. I'm sure that if you could attend, you would bring your brushes in addition to the gold vinyl stuff.
Thanks for posting those dates. As a vender you probably got advanced notice (before dates are actually published anywhere) so arrangements could be made. Then you posted them here. So what if now everyone knows that Signgold plans to be at all those shows next year. Maybe someone can write those down or save this page so that when someone announces the next Letterhead Meet, those dates will be remembered as already taken. I see no reason to post them in the future meets section here in Letterville.
Just because Steve don't like the shows doesn't mean Letterheads don't attend them. They do when they're looking to purchase new equipment or software or materials. They get to talk to "live" tech support. Hey, the last show I went to, I got some pricing software. And at a special show discount too.
So Steve, I hope I'm not too far out of line here. Just wondering if my interpretation made any sense or is even correct. Just a thought. Nothing more.
-------------------- Bill Cosharek Bill Cosharek Signs N.Huntingdon,Pa
bcosharek@juno.com Posts: 705 | From: N.Huntingdon, Pa, USA | Registered: Dec 1999
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The last Trade show I went to was near Boston. It was sponsored by the Mass Sign Association. I was hoping to buy some quills there that day. Hahahahahahhaha, good luck. If I wanted to print billboards I could have got what I needed, but not a brush or One Shot to be had. Well, that was two years ago. About six months ago the MSA came to Western Ma. and was looking for us little guys to pony up $100 a year to support their cause. Haahahahahha, yeah right. Brian, I like you and enjoy hanging around with you at meets. I understand what your trying to do here. I hate to see the conflicts in dates when it comes to shows and meets. Hopefully this can be resolved.
When it comes to meets, I blame the persons organizing them. It's just poor planning on there part if they are butting up against other shows. These shows are publicized in enough places that this shouldn't happen. People just are not doing their homework or contacting the right people. Anyway, I'll see you around the playground and keep twisting the chicken!
[ August 16, 2003, 01:45 PM: Message edited by: Robert Larkham ]
-------------------- Rob Larkham Sign Techniques Inc. Chicopee, Ma Posts: 607 | From: Chester, Ma. | Registered: Apr 2002
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The reason for posting the dates , soas NOT to plan letterhead events on the same weekends, HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH:
A: Me, or anyone else being involved in panel jam areas, carving, playing, etc. Actually, I work for half my normal pay rate at Letterhead events(as compared to what I get for trade shows), in order to NOT be chained to the booth, so I can play. But Thats not why I posted this.
B: It was NOT to create a debate about the validity of trade shows..what they were, what they weren't, or who goes to them.
C: It was NOT to Provide any valuable advertising for these trade shows, even IF they paid for it. I just wanted the dates listed to as to make people aware of them
MY POST WAS INTENDED TO MAKE PEOPLE AWARE THAT VENDORS, SPONSORS, UNDERWRITERS..WHATEVER YA WANNA CALL US...CAN'T BE AT A LETTERHEADS MEET IF WE'RE ALREADY COMMITED TO A TRADE SHOW. IF WE CAN'T BE THERE, ITS HARD TO JUSTIFY INVESTING TOO HEAVILY INTO THAT EVENT.
It had nothing to do with my wanting to play and paint, or my trying to justify the existance of any show.
Any comments I made OTHER than, "hey, let's post these dates so people are aware of them", were responses to some of the posts from people who were completely misinterperating what I was trying to accomplish.
Now, you'll have to excuse me, but I have to end this post so I can finish following up on sending this month's Resident Draw winner the SignGold Starter Kit we donate each month. See how we're trying to all get along here???
Enjoy your weekends,
Keep on keepin' on
Brian Briskie
Posts: 465 | From: / | Registered: Jan 2000
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posted
How do you guys know Brian and I didn't plan all this? Could be the old game of good cop/bad cop.
Nobody will ever know for sure, but these show dates have been viewed by thousands since this thread was posted. You can't buy this publicity at any price.
I regret this thread got so twisted out of shape, but we all tend to read things through our "glasses of prejudices." Somewhere along the line, I was labeled as hating industry trade shows. In reality, I don't hate anything or anybody.
Yes. I do have lots of issues with big, corporate sign associations. I'll never apoligize for my "Letterheads First" attitude, but looking back, this was probally not the time or post to open that Pandora's box.
-------------------- Steve Shortreed 144 Hill St., E. Fergus, Ontario Canada N1M 1G9 519-787-2673
posted
(until the calendar function of the site gets “populated”)…
It happens within the “commercial” aspect of the industry as well. Looks like the middle of September is a very popular time to have some type of “sign” related event. Be nice to attend these things, but, until science allows simultaneous existence at two different locations at the same period in time...
...I’ll be found in SoCal during that weekend.
As mentioned previously, an actual Letterhead meet, September 19, 20 & 21, A Splash In The Pacific 2003, Nanaimo, BC, Canada (Info here)
September 18, 19, 20, The Sign Business & Digital Graphics Show, Long Beach, CA (Info Here)
September 19 and 20, SAC-ACE Consac Show, Toronto, ON, Canada (Info Here)
September 19 and 20, Advantage Sign Supply Impact Digital Graphics Expo, Grand Rapids, MI (Info Here)
By the way, it’s the second year in a row a NBM show and SAC-ACE show have had a conflict of scheduling.
-------------------- Bob Gilliland InKnowVative Communications Harrisburg PA, USA
"The U.S. Constitution doesn't guarantee happiness, only the pursuit of it. You have to catch up with it yourself." Benjamin Franklin Posts: 642 | From: Harrisburg, PA, USA | Registered: Nov 1998
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Well, in reviewing the exhibitor list for the Canadian show, I only found 2 U.S.-based companies. It appears as though the majority of the vendors are Canadian...so that's probably less of a conflict than it could have been.
You're right though. If ya figure out that two (or three or four) places at once thing, turn me on to the secret!!
In the meantime, I'll see you in sunny Californification in a few weeks!!!
Keep on keepin on,
Brian Briskie
Posts: 465 | From: / | Registered: Jan 2000
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posted
Do ya all feel like you're speaking two maybe three different languages at the same time?
RE-lax... Un-lax... heck, take a break.
The feeling level side of the Moon
(I'm just happy I see both or rather all three or four or five sides here... today's a good day for me!)
-------------------- The Moon aka: Stefenie Harris Moonlight Designs Pollock Pines, CA learnin' somethin' new every day! stefenie@comcast.net Posts: 550 | From: Pollock Pines, CA, USA | Registered: Nov 1998
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posted
Hey! This ain't fair! Lettervlle is being asked, demanded by some, to promote non-Letterhead functions. I just clicked on Bob's links to these shows, along with their respective association home pages, and I can find no mention of upcoming Letterhead/Pinhead Meets or even Letterville. What's with that?
-------------------- Steve Shortreed 144 Hill St., E. Fergus, Ontario Canada N1M 1G9 519-787-2673
posted
I can see both sides of this issue. The only solution I see so that both sides are accommadated, is to have a calendar of events where in the interest of Letterheads on the Letterhead web site, Letterhead meets are listed, but other shows have a simple non de script title of "trade show" on a particular date. We would know there is a show that weekend, but it would not advertised for free in any way, shape, or form.
But this too is not a complete solution. I'm sure Steve has all kinds of free time to seek out every trade show date. (NOT!) And I'm sure every trade show is going to call Steve with their dates. (NOT!)
Maybe this should fall on the shoulders of the meet hosts, to seek out non conflicting dates for their meets on their own.
posted
Let me repeat the compromise I proposed in an earlier post/
In the meantime, I'd like to propose a possible compromise. What if we were to list the non Letterhead/PinHead tradeshows on the Events Page? The listings would be linked to a list of Letterville Merchants that will have booths at that particular show. From there our users can go directly to that Merchants Website where they can learn all the particulars. Merchants can inform us on what booth they are in, what they will be showing and any other special events that their company will be offering at that particular trade show.
The users of Letterville will be able to see a list of future trade shows, Letterville Merchants will get a plug and some additional visitors to their own websites. Steve and Barb will hopefully keep some valued friends and Merchants.
What's wrong with the above? And I'm still not seeing any Letterhead or Pinhead Events listed at the sign association websites Bob is promoting. I assume you guys are working on that. Just asking.
-------------------- Steve Shortreed 144 Hill St., E. Fergus, Ontario Canada N1M 1G9 519-787-2673
quote: …sign association websites Bob is promoting
So if somebody posts information here, it’s considering promoting???
Guess that’s sort of like the definition of getting “paid”?
Or identifying who is “demanding” you to do something here at the site?
I don’t like getting into these ****ing contests, particular in an “online” fashion. You and I have spent entirely to much time on this particular issue. I believe there to be much bigger issues that need attention regarding L-ville then this topic. You are the host of this meet and have the power of “editing” any post you see fit. Please edit any post of mine here in this thread or elsewhere within this site as you see fit. Otherwise, GET OVER IT!!!
Any additional comments relative to this issue can be addressed to me privately via phone or email. Continuing on in a public fashion is doing NOTHING to enhance the Letterville experience and possibly could be doing more harm then good in the long run. And since I have no desire to make that happen, I bow out of this particular thread and topic inside Letterville.
Signed Bob Gilliland
[ September 03, 2003, 07:33 PM: Message edited by: Bob Gilliland ]
-------------------- Bob Gilliland InKnowVative Communications Harrisburg PA, USA
"The U.S. Constitution doesn't guarantee happiness, only the pursuit of it. You have to catch up with it yourself." Benjamin Franklin Posts: 642 | From: Harrisburg, PA, USA | Registered: Nov 1998
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You finished your post “Singed”, as in “scorched”. Clever word play.
I know this whole thread has been more to the point of the propriety of posting non Letterhead events on the Letterville board. I will give my own personal take on the shows, which is a little off this now well beaten track.
If I have to choose between an industry show and a conflicting Letterheads meet, the Letterheads meet would win, hands down. However, I really would prefer to go to both. The industry shows often have seminars on marketing and business management that are very useful for the smaller shops. They may be geared more toward the technology end of the business but few Letterheads are without computers these days. The Letterheads meets are where I learn the really cool tricks, the industry shows are often where I figure out how to sell those cool tricks to a larger clientele and apply them in my business at a necessary profit.
As far as I’m concerned, both are very useful. Whatever information I can get to plan my schedule in advance is equally useful.
You may print out my opinion, take it to any Starbucks, and for a mere $3.95 processing fee, pick up a free Grande Almond Macchiato. Guaranteed.
[Edited for the following: Bob changed his post back to "Signed" rather than "Singed" while I was composing my free Letterheads Starbucks pass. Oops!]
P.S. Steve, I tried the Spellcheck tool. It doesn't know what Letterville is.
[ September 03, 2003, 08:16 PM: Message edited by: David Harding ]
-------------------- David Harding A Sign of Excellence Carrollton, TX Posts: 5114 | From: Carrollton, TX, USA | Registered: Nov 1998
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