{"id":1521,"date":"2023-12-03T12:51:50","date_gmt":"2023-12-03T17:51:50","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/andermaninavy.org\/?page_id=1521"},"modified":"2023-12-03T13:03:26","modified_gmt":"2023-12-03T18:03:26","slug":"convention-guide","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/andermaninavy.org\/de\/uniforms-and-guides\/convention-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"Convention Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>[et_pb_section fb_built=&#8221;1&#8243; fullwidth=&#8221;on&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.20.1&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; locked=&#8221;off&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_fullwidth_header title=&#8221;IAN Convention Guide&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.23.1&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; title_text_align=&#8221;center&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_fullwidth_header][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=&#8221;1&#8243; specialty=&#8221;on&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.23.1&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; background_image=&#8221;https:\/\/andermaninavy.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/2FleetHeaderBack01.jpg&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column type=&#8221;1_3&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.16&#8243; custom_padding=&#8221;|||&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221; custom_padding__hover=&#8221;|||&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/andermaninavy.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/IAN-Eagle.png&#8221; alt=&#8221;IAN Eagle&#8221; title_text=&#8221;IAN Eagle&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.23.1&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_button button_url=&#8221;https:\/\/andermaninavy.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/12\/IAN-Convention-Guide.pdf&#8221; button_text=&#8221;Download as PDF&#8221; button_alignment=&#8221;center&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.23.1&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; custom_button=&#8221;on&#8221; button_text_color=&#8221;#FFFFFF&#8221; button_bg_color=&#8221;gcid-b7f80127-e7f8-4b88-bd8e-6b84b239e082&#8243; button_border_radius=&#8221;50px&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; global_colors_info=&#8221;{%22gcid-b7f80127-e7f8-4b88-bd8e-6b84b239e082%22:%91%22button_bg_color%22%93}&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=&#8221;2_3&#8243; specialty_columns=&#8221;2&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.16&#8243; custom_padding=&#8221;|||&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221; custom_padding__hover=&#8221;|||&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_row_inner _builder_version=&#8221;4.23.1&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_column_inner saved_specialty_column_type=&#8221;2_3&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.23.1&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221;][et_pb_accordion _builder_version=&#8221;4.23.1&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; toggle_level=&#8221;h3&#8243; toggle_font=&#8221;|||on|||||&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;][et_pb_accordion_item title=&#8221;Introduction&#8221; open=&#8221;on&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.23.1&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Throughout the organization you would be hard pressed to find two ships that approach going to a convention the exact same way.\u00a0 This guide is an attempt to bring a number of those ideas together in one place to provide information for chapters to try new things and to improve the overall experience of the convention.\u00a0 Please understand, this is not a \u201chow to\u201d guide but a collection of thoughts and suggestions that you should pick and choose from to fit the people involved and the convention environment.\u00a0 We hope you find insight, encouragement and some new ideas to help you with your next convention planning process.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title=&#8221;How to have fun&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.23.1&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One of the best ways to have and promote fun is to include others, don&#8217;t delegate to others, but include them in the planning stages.\u00a0 This creates a sense of ownership for members and encourages them to participate when they see their ideas executed.\u00a0 So plan early to get ideas down on paper.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Also don&#8217;t be a perfectionist, no plan survives contact with the Con.\u00a0 Department heads will be late in getting back to you.\u00a0 Your panels will be at the wrong time.\u00a0 A crew member who was going to be your security head now will not be attending due to life.\u00a0 Reorganize or find people who can step in and help.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Don&#8217;t sweat the details too much our you will go nuts.\u00a0 Figure out what the core of your offering is and stick true to that in spirit.\u00a0 If you are dead set on having a well staffed fan table and the party room is an Afterthought or the people running the party room have not responded?\u00a0 It may be time to focus on the table instead.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lastly One of the biggest stress points is money.\u00a0 Be open and upfront about your costs and where it is going and how it is coming in.\u00a0 This will likely lead to scaling back, but if your team is aware of funding as you go it won&#8217;t be a surprise when you need to ask for more or cut back.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">And remember none of us are professionals at this so mistakes happen.\u00a0 We are all volunteers with lives outside of TRMN and conventions.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title=&#8221;Goals&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.23.1&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Have fun<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Socialize with members<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Recruitment<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One of the biggest questions when going to a convention is, \u201cWhat should we be doing?\u201d\u00a0 To rephrase this a bit, \u201cWhat should we accomplish while at a convention?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The first and primary goal of any person attending a convention is to have fun.\u00a0 This should be the only motivation to go to a convention.\u00a0 If you are not going to have fun, then there really isn&#8217;t any reason to go.\u00a0 Another way to look at it is if what you are doing is to have a chance to sustain, grow and be successful, all the members attending the convention need to have a good time.\u00a0 Otherwise, no one will want to continue to do it and anyone you try to recruit will notice and not want to join.\u00a0 So fun first.\u00a0 Also if you genuinely have a good time people will want in on that fun.\u00a0 When you smile at someone they tend to smile back.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The second goal is to have opportunities for group socialization.\u00a0 The biggest problem for TRMN is that we are a large virtual group.\u00a0 Since we don\u2019t regularly meet in person it is very hard for us to form strong, lasting interpersonal bonds with the rest of our chapter and greater organization.\u00a0 Therefore, while at the convention we should set aside time to talk with our fellow members and get to know each other.\u00a0 This is a great time for chapter triad members to find out what everyone&#8217;s hobbies are and what activities they might like to attend.\u00a0 Very few people are ever motivated to attend an activity with a bunch of strangers.\u00a0 Use the fun and common interests of the convention to break the ice and get people talking.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The third goal is to meet new people and expose them to the Honorverse while the fourth goal is to recruit new members.\u00a0 The reason why I list them in this order is because no one who is strong-armed into joining the org will stick with it and be an active member.\u00a0 We already have plenty of members that are on the rolls and do not have anything to do with the organization.\u00a0 What we need is members who want to join and are willing to engage with other members of the organization.\u00a0 Therefore, we should engage new people and introduce them to the Honorverse and the TRMN.\u00a0 This organization is a fan club first and foremost, therefore we should strive to find members who are fans of the books.\u00a0 Once we have this similarity, we can use it to motivate them to join the club by showing them how these books and its author have brought us together to accomplish great things.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title=&#8221;Convention Table&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.23.1&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The standard activity that TRMN promotes for all conventions.\u00a0 The idea is to obtain a table at the convention where we can set out stuff and have members in one location to meet and talk to con attendees.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There isn\u2019t one right way to set up a table.\u00a0 It all depends on the resources at your disposal.\u00a0 The first step is to find out who is willing to bring something to the table, literally.\u00a0 If you can get a number of people to bring an item that can be showcased at the table.\u00a0 You will be able to have a diverse collection of items.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Now let&#8217;s discuss the basics of setting up a table.\u00a0 The first item is the table cloth.\u00a0 Ideally, I would match the color to the service color of the primary ship, or black will.\u00a0 This can be a simple, and cheap, bed sheet.\u00a0 If you have the time and inclination you could paint the org title and ship name on the part that would hang over the front.\u00a0 You could also print iron ons and add the ship\u2019s crest and org seal.\u00a0 Embellish as you see fit, the goal is eye-catching but not crazy busy.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The next thing you will need is a sign(s).\u00a0 If you didn\u2019t embellish your table cloth, then I would get some poster board and create a sign to hang in front of the table.\u00a0 I would also create a banner style sign to hang at the back of your area above your heads.\u00a0 You can also create\/purchase a vertical banner to place on either side of your table.\u00a0 The goal is to make sure everyone knows what organization you represent and it is easy for them to spot.\u00a0 Most people tend to either see high things or low things, so having two signs makes sure one is seen.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The next step is the display of items.\u00a0 Once you know what you will have to display and where your signs will go, you will need to decide how to lay out the stuff.\u00a0 The basic goal is to have items that will grab peoples attention but not have so much stuff that their brain cannot differentiate what is at the table quickly enough and choose to ignore everything.\u00a0 Group similar things together and place some space between items.\u00a0 Single items can be placed by themselves to really help them stand out.\u00a0 If the table ends up full, pull some of the items off the table and rotate them back onto the table every hour or two.\u00a0 Also, if you have a dozen different books,\u00a0 feel free to remove some and keep the ones with the most eye-catching artwork.\u00a0 They don\u2019t have to be on the table for you to grab them and make reference to them.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you have freebie items ie badge ribbons, cards, candy, etc, don&#8217;t put them all out at once.\u00a0 Put out 4 to 6\u00a0 at a time and the rest being the table.\u00a0 This prevents some one form knocking them down and prevents someone from running off with every thing.\u00a0 Also it creates a sense that you are a popular table and can foster a sense of scarcity.\u00a0 This can draw people in.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The last part is the people.\u00a0 Do not get a table to set up and leave unattended.\u00a0 This is a waste of time and money.\u00a0 You should make sure you always have two people at the table at all times.\u00a0 First, this means that there will always be someone around if a bathroom break is needed.\u00a0 Second, it means there is an automatic witness to all interactions and safety in numbers. Third, built in moral support for those you are not very outgoing.\u00a0 Fourth, you can play the game I like to call Rake and Catch.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rake and Catch is a simple game.\u00a0 The idea is that one person stands in front of the table.\u00a0 Their goal is to engage as many people as possible and pull their attention into the table.\u00a0 where the second person will be waiting to further discuss the organization in detail, give them kitsch and even sign them up. The raker will need to talk to many people to get a few to come to the table, so they need to be free to be out talking to the new people.\u00a0 The person behind the table then knows that they have interested people and focuses on talking to them and introducing them to the different aspects of the books and the organization itself. \u00a0 After 30 to 60 minutes the two can switch.\u00a0 No one wants to join an organization that is being promoted by two people sitting behind a table engrossed in conversation or on their phones. Someone needs to watch for new people and always be ready to engage.\u00a0 See previous section on discussions about what to say and how to say it.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Raker should try to be eye catching.\u00a0 Use lines like &#8220;Come Join the Imperial Navy\u2026no the other one\u2026no the other one.&#8221; Or &#8220;The Queen&#8217;s Navy needs you.\u00a0 She&#8217;s not picky she took me.&#8221;<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The person behind the table should be knowledgeable about the Org, and the ships represented so they can direct potential recruits to the right person.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">And don&#8217;t push recruitment.\u00a0 Get to know the person and let them get to know you.\u00a0 Our rolls are filled with sensor ghost.\u00a0 Really talk with them, don&#8217;t be elitist or exclusive but feel the person out, talk to thier interests and relate it back to the org.\u00a0 This is where knowing X chapter does minitures, Y chapter does charity, z chapter is mostly administrative.\u00a0 It they fitnthwy fit if not move along.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Also be aware of eachother there are times when someone just wants a captive audience to talk about what ever it is they want to talk about.\u00a0 And since you are there on shift that&#8217;s you.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Also TRMN members tend to gather around the table.\u00a0 This can help as a check in center for members, where you can fill volunteer spots and spread information if Cell service is bad.\u00a0 But don&#8217;t let it turn into a conversation area for members, get members to move to another location.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title=&#8221;Party Room&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.23.1&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This is a great way to socially interact with people and introduce them to the organization.\u00a0 I know a number of members who have had great success recruiting new members at a party room.\u00a0 But beside recruitment, this is also a great time for members to hang out and get to know one another.\u00a0 Remember people join an organization based on interest or novelty of the group but they will end up staying and participating with the group because of the people.\u00a0 So the goal of a room party is to socialize.\u00a0 Have fun and get to know as many people as you can.\u00a0 The more you know and who knows you, the tighter the organization can become.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Some additional things to think about when organizing a party room:<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Water <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&#8211; Make sure you have plenty of water for general consumption. Most people will be going from room to room drinking alcohol.\u00a0 Having water available will help with their recovery.\u00a0 Don\u2019t be afraid to offer it often.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Snacks<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211;\u00a0 You can purchase a box of random assortment of small snacks on Amazon and have it handy.\u00a0 Put out a handful or two at a time and when you start running low get another handful.\u00a0 A little sugar, starch and salt to keep people going for the night will be greatly appreciated.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Missile Pods <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&#8211; this is our signature drink and so much more.\u00a0 If you have a party room, you probably need to consider having at least a few rounds of missile pods.\u00a0 People will have heard of them from other conventions and will want to participate.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The true goal of the missile pods is interactive theater.\u00a0 It needs to be made into an experience that is capped off with a unique drink. It is also a good idea to have a non-alcoholic alternative and some other alternative for food allergies on hand. Here is a rough outline of what to do:<\/span><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Form a group of people into a circle (10-12 is a good max size).<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Introduce the drink by telling them the contents and how it is layered.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Then introduce them to their role.\u00a0 They are all missile techs on board a queen\u2019s vessel and give them instructions on how to launch a missile.<\/span><\/li>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">extend armature<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">receive ordnance<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">retract armature<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">open hatch<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"2\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">launch on orders<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Once everyone is finished, collect the cups and pass around a donation jar.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Missile Pod rolls should not last more than 5 mins.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><b>Alcohol<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; This can be the most expensive and complex part of creating a party room.\u00a0 Some people like to have mixed drinks and others like to have the basics like beer and whiskey.\u00a0 The best advice is to use the same idea for a restaurant and keep the offering simple.\u00a0 Don\u2019t try to have a little bit of everything cause you will spend all your time mixing drinks.\u00a0 Drinks are the bait, not the goal of throwing the party.The best parties I have seen have some type of premixed drinks that can be quickly poured and served.\u00a0 And then some version without alcohol as well.\u00a0 This may not be exciting but it allows you to have planning and control over how much alcohol you will need for each night.\u00a0 This is especially good if you are on a budget. It also means everything can be produced in batches.\u00a0 If you think it will be a small con, start off making small batches.\u00a0 Remember unused alcohol can be saved for the next con or a ship\u2019s party so don\u2019t feel it all has to be consumed.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Drink Tickets<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; This can be a great way to limit the amount of alcohol that you need to have on hand and have some other positive side effects.\u00a0 Don\u2019t sell the tickets.\u00a0 Give away the tickets at the door. One or two per person.\u00a0 If they don\u2019t want them, they can always give them to someone else.\u00a0 Great for a conversation starter.\u00a0 Also, give away a limited number of tickets as you walk around the con or at the table.\u00a0 This will help drive traffic to the party.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Games &#8211; <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It might also be a good idea to have some bar games handy that people can play while talking.\u00a0 Nothing complex or fancy, just something simple and social.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Important to remember have some one checking IDs at the door.\u00a0 Use different color wristbands for each night.\u00a0 And members on shift need to be sober themselves, at the discretion of whoever is in charge.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title=&#8221;Other Convention Activities&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.23.1&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Beside the table and party there are a number of activities that one can include while at the convention to get non-members to interact and learn more about the organization.\u00a0 Here is a list of some activities that you might find fun and useful for your convention:<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Artemis<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; This is a basic ship simulation video game that requires multiple computers to be networked for proper play.\u00a0 In some areas our org is known for being willing to bring this to the con so that attendees can play.\u00a0 The first step is to obtain the software and user license.\u00a0 Then you will need to obtain a minimum of four computers and install the software on each.\u00a0 One of the computers will be the host and actually runs the game while the other computers act as different ship stations that players control.\u00a0 Navigation, engineering and weapons are the 3 primary stations that need to be manned.\u00a0 Then you fly around and battle with known enemies.\u00a0 It requires a lot of teamwork, communication and can be a lot of fun.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Raffle<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; This activity is where you collect information from a person in exchange for an entry into a drawing for a prize.\u00a0 The key here is to understand your audience and balance the effort needed to win does not exceed the perceived value of the prize.\u00a0 If the prize has no real value then people will feel like it&#8217;s a waste of their time to sign up for the drawing.\u00a0 This does not have to happen at a table, but can be done at a party room or with members in full uniform in a con suit or wandering around the convention.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you wish to collect money, most states will consider this as gambling and you will need a license to proceed.\u00a0 A gambling license can be difficult to obtain, as it is tightly regulated, and will require an organization to hold the license.\u00a0 As only the President of the TRMN, Inc. can legally sign for such an item, this will make obtaining a license a non-starter.\u00a0 Therefore, don\u2019t collect money for a raffle, the benefits do not outweigh the headache.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Convention Volunteer &#8211; <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Many people are needed to make a convention work.\u00a0 Most of the time these people are working behind the scenes to make sure people and equipment arrive at their designated location on time, people eat, and everyone stays safe.\u00a0 Consider volunteering as a group and in uniform for the convention.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Shore Patrol<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; This is when a team of TRMN members volunteer with con security, or agree to run con security, in uniform.\u00a0 This is a great way to get visibility and positive interaction with con leadership.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Gift Bag Giveaway<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; One of the more simpler ideas that can be used if you do not have a table.\u00a0 Basically, file a number of small bags with TRMN swag (stickers, pen, name tag ribbons, etc) and a card with the organization&#8217;s website, a contact email and the urls for the first two books.\u00a0 Then walk around the con, strike up conversations and hand out the bags to random people.\u00a0 It is best done with members in uniforms.\u00a0 Each member should only get a handful of bags at a time and have a designation location when people can be restocked.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Scavenger Hunt<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; The hard part for this event is finding items to give away that motivate people to participate.\u00a0 When combined with a raffle style giveaway makes for an interesting adventure for con attendees no matter when they start the quest.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">There are multiple ways to configure a scavenger hunt.\u00a0 You can have a series of riddles that leads people to a final goal.\u00a0 Or you can have people collect things (I would strongly recommend pictures or signatures).\u00a0 Once they have completed the task they can turn in the list for verification and entry into the prize.\u00a0 You might also think about having 2 to 3 different sets of equivalent tasks that can be completed for multiple entries and so that you don\u2019t have all the groups doing the exact same thing.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A couple of examples of scavenger hunts:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Signatures of different TRMN things or members(i.e. a flag officer, enlisted member, members of different services, etc.)\u00a0 This will require uniforms for best effect.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Find the location of different signs around the hotel and\/or con space.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Take pictures doing certain actions at different locations<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I would try to involve the merchants somehow.\u00a0 They might be willing to play along for some increase in traffic.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>Bingo <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">&#8211; Very similar to the scavenger hunt but instead of obtaining a complete list, fill a board bingo style.\u00a0 This one will take a bit more prep as you will want to have a huge number of random things to find and then have to create a series of random boards that can be filled out.\u00a0 Each completed board is a new entry into the final drawing.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Award Ceremony<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; A great form of propaganda.\u00a0 Ideally, you will want to get a room with convention and have it listed in the program.\u00a0 Then get every member in attendance to show up in uniform or at least con min.\u00a0 The event is basically a public recognition of what the members have been doing and accomplishing for the organization.\u00a0 Non-member will then get to hear what we are doing and see how we recognize those that accomplish things within our ranks.\u00a0 Win win.\u00a0 Ideally, you should plan ahead, find out what awards will be coming out for the members in attendance and have certificates printed out (or even have actual awards available to hand out). Then make sure to do your homework and know what each person did to receive their award so that you can read the citation and even embellish it a bit.\u00a0 It&#8217;s a great time to put on a show and celebrate all that we do for each other.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To find out about awards you should contact the service heads or the Awards Director well in advance to obtain the necessary information so that they agree to hold off making the announcements ahead of time.\u00a0 Surprising members with awards is always worth the extra effort.\u00a0 This is easier if it comes from a Fleet CO.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Also Having a &#8220;Captain&#8217;s Box&#8221; can make this easier.\u00a0 A box with divided compartments that can stay separate even when not right side up.\u00a0 Have rank pips, beret flashes, and common ribbons from Armed Forces Servic Ribbon up to The Conspicuous Gallantry Medal us a good spread.\u00a0 Then members can trade in old ranks.\u00a0 The initial investment is big but start small and pass it on.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Also if you can&#8217;t get a room do it in a public space.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Parade<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; You will need to gather some flags and a number of members in uniforms and then have them march around the con space.\u00a0 Line everyone up by rank, lowest to highest.\u00a0 Have the flags lead the procession.\u00a0 When you get to your ending spot, have a short speech, discussion on future plans for the area chapters, an awards ceremony, or some other short activity that all can participate in, that is a moment of bonding.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Blood Drive<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; Most blood collection organizations will not send people to an event without a guaranteed number of pints.\u00a0 Therefore, you will need to schedule some people ahead of time to meet and preferably exceed the guarantee and then have open slots that can be filled by walk ups at the convention.\u00a0 Additionally, you will need to provide a number of volunteers to help staff the event.\u00a0 This is a great event, if you can pull it off, but probably not for the novice.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Charity Drive<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> &#8211; Have a closed container that people can drop in donations for a chosen charity.\u00a0 It&#8217;s good to have a charity to show how our org does a variety of activities including philanthropy.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Panel &#8211; <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Who doesn\u2019t like the idea of getting 3-5 friends together to debate the positive and negative aspects of your favorite SciFi topics.\u00a0 This is exactly your opportunity to do so.\u00a0 Also, you can set up a Q&amp;A session with members of TRMN to talk about their experiences and involvement with the group, and how others can get involved.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Trivia &#8211; <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hold a trivia contest based on the Honorverse with prizes for the winners.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Screening &#8211;<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Host a screening or viewing party of a classic or beloved science fiction film or TV show, with an introduction or discussion led by TRMN members.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Arts and Crafts &#8211;<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Organize a workshop or hands-on activity that allows attendees to participate in a group project or activity related to the fan organization&#8217;s interests, such as building a robot, designing a spacecraft, or creating a cosplay outfit.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Workshop or Demonstration &#8211; <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Host a workshop or demonstration focused on a particular skill or craft related to the fan organization&#8217;s interests, such as prop making or special effects or miniture painting.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Gaming Tournament &#8211;<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Host a gaming tournament or competition that focuses on science fiction-themed games or challenges, with prizes for the winners.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>@Random &#8211; <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Remember having fun, it doesn&#8217;t all need to be planned.\u00a0 While waiting for the parade to start, start a sing-a-long.\u00a0 If you have metal chest metals walk up to another member and shake your rack make it jingle.\u00a0 Engage with other fandoms, show that you can play in others spaces.\u00a0 Do a pod roll where you attack the Death Star or a Borg Cube, or a red dragon.\u00a0 If there is a pirate walking around engage with them as a member of a Space Navy.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0If you stay unsular and isolated and make others engage only on purpose terms that will cause a bad impression.\u00a0 But if you &#8220;play&#8221; or &#8220;yes and&#8221; other fandoms you foster good will in the community, also it is fun!\u00a0 And if we have fun others will want to join in that fun.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_accordion_item][et_pb_accordion_item title=&#8221;Conclusion&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.23.1&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; theme_builder_area=&#8221;post_content&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In conclusion, participating in a science fiction convention as a member of the TRMN is an unforgettable experience for any fan of science fiction. You will have access to a wide range of activities and events that will allow you to connect with fellow fans, explore new and exciting aspects of science fiction, and celebrate your shared love of the genre. From engaging panel discussions and workshops to cosplay contests and social events, conventions offer something for everyone. Additionally, participating as a member of the TRMN\u00a0 can provide opportunities to grow as an individual, develop new skills, and build lasting friendships. So if you&#8217;re a science fiction fan who wants to take your passion to the next level, consider gathering a group of members and contributing to the fun of the other event goers by adding to the list of activities.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_accordion_item][\/et_pb_accordion][\/et_pb_column_inner][\/et_pb_row_inner][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Throughout the organization you would be hard pressed to find two ships that approach going to a convention the exact same way.\u00a0 This guide is an attempt to bring a number of those ideas together in one place to provide information for chapters to try new things and to improve the overall experience of the [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":32,"featured_media":0,"parent":786,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"folder":[],"class_list":["post-1521","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/andermaninavy.org\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1521","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/andermaninavy.org\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/andermaninavy.org\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/andermaninavy.org\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/32"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/andermaninavy.org\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1521"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/andermaninavy.org\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1521\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1528,"href":"https:\/\/andermaninavy.org\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/1521\/revisions\/1528"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/andermaninavy.org\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/786"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/andermaninavy.org\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1521"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"folder","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/andermaninavy.org\/de\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/folder?post=1521"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}