47th ConFusion Postponed until January 2022

A Message from the ConFusion Conchair for 2021/2022:


Hello The Peoples and Members of ConFusion!


This is a post that no ConChair or Board of Directors Member ever wants to make. Please, take time to read thru this post.


As your ConFusion 2021 ConChair I want to be as transparent and informative as possible, and that means a longer than typical post.


Our 47th ConFusion brought to you by the AASFA, scheduled to be held (tentatively) January 15-17, 2021 will not be happening in 2021, due to the COVID-19 Pandemic.


The AASFA Board of Directors worked with me, and has voted to table (postpone) the 47th ConFusion until January 2022. We will have no in-person convention event in 2021.


What does “voted to table” mean? Instead of cancelling the 47th ConFusion completely, the Board discussed options, and voted to push the 2021 Conchair, Guests of Honor, ConCom, and 2021 plans to the January 2022 date. Our 47th ConFusion will happen, not in 2021, but 2022.


Why is this being done? The short answer is obviously due to COVID-19. But that Answer has intricacies to it that I’d like to share.


As I, and my ConCom Staff, began planning 2021, we started with the hotel contract. It’s been a very long negotiation process. We are not only impacted by the Pandemic, but so is our venue. Once the venue staff returned from furloughs, we began working on details of the contract. I want to be clear, The Sheraton Novi has been excellent at working with us as we tried to hammer out the best contract.


Last week, I was presented with the best options for our contract and it gave me great concerns when considering the impact COVID-19 would also have upon us.


For those who may not be aware, when we contract a hotel, we’re agreeing that we will fill the hotel to the agreed upon number of room nights. For us, it is typically 90% of all available rooms we guarantee our membership will book. In past years, this has not been a problem. We often have waitlists for cancellations. For 2021, however, it could be a huge problem.


COVID-19 still runs rampant in our physical communities. We have no way of seeing what it will be doing in January 2021, but let’s be real, with no vaccine, it doesn’t look good. And January is a peak time for flu’s, viruses, and other illnesses we often call “Concrud”.


Because COVID-19 is still raging onward, our membership is impacted in ways more then just health. The financial impacts have been devastating to many. As a ConChair, I have to consider this when deciding if in reality we can fill a hotel to 90%.


If we went forward with the 2021 ConFusion and did not fill the hotel, we, ConFusion, would have to pay the difference. For a 90% Hotel Block that is over $60,000 dollars – not including our event rental space cost ($5,000), our Banquet Services Cost ($2,500), and adding Fees, and Taxes.


The Sheraton did address our concerns when we spoke to them, and offered a 60% Room Night Guarantee – but that came with it’s own issues. At 90% we receive X amount of “Complimentary Room Nights”. We use those nights, to provide our guests of honor their accommodations for their time with us. 5 GoH’s staying from Thursday to Monday equals a lot of Hotel Room Nights that we’d have to pay for, were they not provided in “Complimentary” manner. At 60%, we lose many of those “Complimentary Room Nights.” and we have to pay for our GoH’s rooms. Plus every other thing I’ve spoken of.


The 60% Contract Option also means we MUST close reservations by the Middle of November, so the Sheraton can try and book the other 40% of rooms on their own – which means suddenly – we’re not the only people in the Hotel.


That alone is reason for concern, because if we’re not the only people in the hotel, we can’t be guaranteed things like our Non-Gender Bathrooms and other important details that make our con ours. If we book a 60% Hotel Contract and outsider guests arrive and don’t wear masks, or don’t respect our culture, as ConChair, I am powerless to do anything. Those outsiders would not fall under our prevue.


The 60% Hotel Contract would alleviate some concern over owing large sums, but the con’s of it far outweigh the pro’s.
ConFusion, and AASFA can not afford to pay for a contract should we not be able to fill the hotel. Period.


Financial Concerns are not the only concerns though. Thinking, as we have been doing, on how to have a safe ConFusion, suddenly the rooms where panels occur become “smaller” because now the already limited seating, is cut in half as we keep chairs empty for social distancing.


Masks – While I myself say, “wear one”, not every person within our community may agree. Ensuring that every single person is wearing masks at every space other then their personal hotel room is a HUGE concern to me, the ConCom, and the Board.


Social Distancing – How do we do that and make certain every single person is 6 feet apart in every place in the hotel? And if we did fill the hotel, do I send people to their private rooms when the event hotel spaces are filled by members standing/sitting 6 feet apart?


ConSuite – Can I just say, Sweet Bejeebus NO! Just, no! I’m sorry, but as long as COVID-19 is uncontrolled and raging, we can not allow any of us to gather in a large room, un-mask, and eat and drink together. No.


Last Thursday, July 16, I approached the AASFA Board of Directors and laid this all on the table. We had lengthy discussions. The Board Decision was unanimous. Heartbreakingly Unanimous.

The 47th ConFusion can not occur in 2021 without incurring a massive amount of detrimental risk to our community and future con.


If we tried to run an in person event, and failed, the financial losses will crush and end the 47 years this community has worked to keep ConFusion going. I’m not willing to throw it all away just to be able to say, “We tried.”


If we tried to run an in-person event and our members became sick…. I can’t. I simply can’t. I may not be friends with every community member, but I love this community and its members, and I don’t want to lose any more of us. We have lost more than enough to COVID-19 already.


Going forward, now what? Currently the AASFA Board is looking at our options for holding some type of online, virtual fun during the originally scheduled ConFusion weekend. We will be updating you regarding that as soon as we have any info.


We strongly encourage you to think about hosting your own Virtual meet up that weekend, and posting it on our facebook group.


If you pre-registered for 47th ConFusion during ConFusion 2020, your pre-registration is still active and will still be in place for 2022.


If you need or want to reach out to us please email me at chair@confusionsf.org


I want to thank my ConCom for the efforts we all put in to try and begin planning while we’ve waited in limbo. I also want to thank the AASFA Board of Directors for being so very supportive.


I am so sorry, ConFusion. I’m heartsick and sad. So very sad. I hate being the ConChair in ConFusions long history that had to tell our community that this coming year, we’re not holding a con – but I am.


I hope that come January 2021, every single one of you comes here and tells me, “LITHIE, You Overreacted! It’s all fine now!!” I truly do. I would mean this horrible COVID-19 was somehow eradicated and that – that would be so worth it!


Stay Safe! Stay You! Stay in Touch!
Until further updates, ConFusion ConChair -Lithie Dubois
https://2020.confusionsf.org/?p=828

CANCELLED: AASFA Summer Picnic

Like our Community Members, the AASFA has been continuously monitoring the current, COVID-19 Pandemic.

At this time, in order to support our community’s health and well being, the AASFA Board of Directors has voted to CANCEL the AASFA Summer Picnic – typically held in July or August.

Due to the current situation with COVID-19, the AASFA Board of Directors will not be rescheduling of the 2020 AASFA Summer Picnic.

While disappointing for us all, the AASFA Board of Directors care deeply for our community and do not feel holding the Summer Picnic is wise, responsible, or Community Servicing – all things considered.

Thank you for your understanding as we work through the unique intricacies this pandemic has brought to community event planning.

The 2021 ConChair will be releasing a statement Regarding plans for ConFusion 2021 on Monday, July 20, 2020 on all available social media.

Please, take care of your self, your loved ones, and your individual communities.

Until we can meet once more,

The AASFA Board of Directors:
Brian Decker
David Klecha
Anna Carey
Allison Anderson
Bob Brody
Dan Eckerd
Cylithria Dubois

AASFA Spring Voting Party Canceled

Hello The Peoples of ConFusion!


Like you, we are monitoring the current, global pandemic and we’re adhering to local and state policies regarding the Covid 19 outbreak. Because of the current situation the AASFA Board of Directors has taken the following steps for the AASFA Spring Voting Party:

  • -We are canceling the AASFA Spring Voting Party. It will not be rescheduled. Voting for the AASFA Board of Directors will be pushed to the summer picnic, typically scheduled in July or August.
  • -Due to the Spring Voting Party Cancelation, The AASFA Board has voted to allow the 2021 ConChair to choose a 2021 Theme to submit to the Board for approval. Said Theme will be announced once chosen.
  • – The AASFA Board will continue to monitor the Covid 19 pandemic and will adjust the Summer Picnic as necessary.
  • -In the event that a Summer Picnic is not a viable option, the AASFA Board will advise the membership as needed.

The AASFA Board of Directors wants to assure the ConFusion Membership that every and all precautions are being utilized while we monitor the on-going situation. The 2021 ConChair and ConCom will begin planning for the 2021 convention while monitoring the situation and taking action as required.

We’d also like to extend our heartfelt support to any and all Conventions and Fan Run Gatherings as they work through these difficult times.


Stay Safe, Stay Socially Distant, and Stay Strong ConFusion!


The AASFA Board of Directors:

  • Brian Decker – Pres.
  • Dave Klecha – Vice Pres.
  • Bob Brodis – Sec.
  • Anna Carey – Tres.
  • Allison Anderson
  • Dan Eckerd
  • Lithie Dubois

AASFA Summer Picnic Food List

Hi Everyone! the AASFA Board is providing the following food items, tomorrow:
Beef Burgers, 
Beef Hotdogs,
Buns for both,
Veggie Burgers, 
Veggie Hotdogs,
Gluten-free breads (becase damned if I could find Gluten-free buns, booo)
A Veggie Platter,
Hummus (Roasted Red Pepper) 
Pretzel Sticks,
Individual Bags Veggie Chips (Ghosts and Bats)
Assorted Individual Snack Bags Lays Chips, 
Gluten Free Ketchup, Mustard, and Relish,
Lettuce, Tomatoes, and Onions for Burger/Hotdogs
Sharp Cheddar slices,
SkinnyPop Popcorn,
Gluten-Free Welches Fruit Snacks,
Assorted Nabisco, Individual, Mini Cookie Snack Packs,
Gluten-Free Spinach & Kale Whole Grain chips,
Gluten-Free Blue Corn Tortilla chips,
Pinapple Salsa,
Coke,
Die Coke,
Coke Zero,
Diet Vernors,
Faygo Red Pop,
Faygo Lemonade,
7Up,
A&W Rootbeer,
Water, 
Organic, No Sugar Added, Capri Sun Apple Juice Pouches
What Can You Bring? Any type of dessert, fruit, salads , or anything you like/want.
I’d love some watermelon to appear. YUMMMMMMM 

🙂


See you tomorrow at Noonish, or whenever you arrive!

What more details on the AASFA Picnic? Here you go:

It’s that time of year again, SUMMER! And that means it is also time for the annual AASFA summer picnic.

THE FACTS:

THE WHERE: SouthEast Area Park, E. Ellsworth Rd. and Platt Rd. (NW corner) Ann Arbor, Mi 48108

  • This is the same park as last year, different from previous years.
  • Linked at the bottom is a map of the park.
  • We have rented out the covered shelter for the event, please meet there.

Southeast Area Park Map

THE WHEN: SATURDAY, August 31st, 12pm – ?, 2019

  • During the picnic there will be a ConCom Meeting. 
  • An AASFA Board Meeting will precede the picnic at 10am. (These are open to anyone!)

THE WHAT(S):

Voting & Nominations:

  • Voting on Pro, Science, Fan, and Artist/Music/Gaming/Other GOH’s (4 total) for the 2021ConFusion (2020’s GoHs are already set, or in the works)
  • Please send nominations to nominations@aasfa.org (comments/direct replies will not be considered nominations)
  • When you send a nomination, please include some information about the person and what category they would fall into.

Food & Beverage:

  • The AASFA Board will provide some food and beverages, but encourage people to bring something to share.
  • If you bring a dish to share, please bring serving utensils.

THE WHO: YOU!

  • And your friends.
  • And anyone thats seems pretty cool and is into fandom
  • (or should be).
  • This is an all ages event, so bring along the kidlets too!

Hope to see you there!!

Seeking a 2021 ConFusion ConChair

It is that time of year, again, folks! Time to seek out those with a willingness, desire, and want to be the Convention Chair for ConFusionSF.org 2021.

The AASFA Board is looking for individuals interested in chairing the 2021 installment of ConFusion. If you’re interested, or know someone who might be, please e-mail nominations@aasfa.org to let us know!

Please share with us a little about yourself and a little about your vision for ConFusion 2021.

The AASFA Board will be meeting to discuss applications and interview applicants at our annual Summer Picnic:

THE FACTS:

THE WHERE: SouthEast Area Park, E. Ellsworth Rd. and Platt Rd. (NW corner) Ann Arbor, Mi 48108

  • This is the same park as last year, different from previous years.
  • Linked at the bottom is a map of the park.
  • We have rented out the covered shelter for the event, please meet there.

Southeast Area Park Map

THE WHEN: SATURDAY, August 31st, 12pm – ?, 2019

  • During the picnic there will be a ConCom Meeting. 
  • An AASFA Board Meeting will precede the picnic at 10am. (These are open to anyone!)

So send your nominations in and we’ll see you there!

Annual AASFA Summer Picnic

It’s that time of year again, SUMMER! And that means it is also time for the annual AASFA summer picnic.

THE FACTS:

THE WHERE: SouthEast Area Park, E. Ellsworth Rd. and Platt Rd. (NW corner) Ann Arbor, Mi 48108

  • This is the same park as last year, different from previous years.
  • Linked at the bottom is a map of the park.
  • We have rented out the covered shelter for the event, please meet there.

Southeast Area Park Map

THE WHEN: SATURDAY, August 31st, 12pm – ?, 2019

  • During the picnic there will be a ConCom Meeting.
  • An AASFA Board Meeting will precede the picnic at 10am. (These are open to anyone!)

THE WHAT(S):

Voting & Nominations:

  • Voting on Pro, Science, Fan, and Artist/Music/Gaming/Other GOH’s (4 total) for the 2021 ConFusion (2020’s GoHs are already set, or in the works)
  • Please send nominations to nominations@aasfa.org (comments/direct replies will not be considered nominations)
  • When you send a nomination, please include some information about the person and what category they would fall into.

Food & Beverage:

  • The AASFA Board will provide some food and beverages, but encourage people to bring something to share.
  • If you bring a dish to share, please bring serving utensils.

THE WHO: YOU!

  • And your friends.
  • And anyone thats seems pretty cool and is into fandom
  • (or should be).
  • This is an all ages event, so bring along the kidlets too!

Hope to see you there!!