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Crowds should not be a problem with ConDor. It is more like a group of friends getting together to have a good time.

The Chair of this con (ConDor XIV), Pearl Stickler, got me involved with the "group" back in 1973 and she has managed to make it more like an extended family over the past few decades. We have been fortunate to have wonderful guests that easily fit in with Pearl's "family". No one is excluded and everyone is treated with mutual respect. You and all other newcomers will feel right at home right from the beginning.

The con is definitely non-profit since any "profit"(?) would go to help get the next one ready. For some reason, the dedicated, selfless, people who put it on toil tens, if not hundreds, of hours to give others pleasure and further the arts. It is not really a convention but rather a selfless act of love -- more a family reunion than your typical convention. You will feel a part of something special from the very beginning. Everyone can participate in the convention, even requesting certain topics and offering opinions.

Many of the same people running this convention also work on Comic Con International (CCI) held in San Diego (July 29th this year) but instead of 120,000+ screaming maniacs, they deal with a few hundred dedicated friends/fans. That means the same people who run the CCI art show and masquerade are behind this conventions art show and masquerade. This is a VERY professional convention but a smaller, friendlier group. Meeting rooms are usually only a dozen or so people (some very small) so you should not worry about being shy or overwhelmed.

You cannot beat this for family-oriented. Some of the kids running around are second, third, or even fourth generation members of the "group". The place the convention is being held is very nice and spread out. You will probably find yourself deciding between several things because there are just so many great things to see and do. If you actually do find a quiet time, walk or drive to nearby Fashion Valley for a real treat -- lots of great stores all in a row -- I can spend hours just checking out all the stores in the 2 level shopping center. Lots of places to eat if you get hungry.

For snacks and other treats, you will probably never find a better Con Suite. I gave these special people a standing ovation last year for have the best Con Suite in the history of conventions. They are better than that but it is was the best I could think of. They are closer to artists and magicians than mere mortals. I have never seen such devotion to their craft. They left everyone happy.

If you can stay up past 9 PM, there are usually fun room parties after the masquerade. Most/all are put on by other conventions and bid parties. You might even find a party or two on Friday night. Keep watch for flyers and announcements. Be sure to sign up for next years ConDor so you can be sure to be kept up to date and so they have a starting budget. I have pre-registered for each and every
ConDor (and every Conjecture; and every San Diego Comic Con / CCI since 1973). My first Comic Con had about 250 people, including the guests (now over 120,000). They were warm and friendly (The convention & the people attending); and many of my friends from those days attend or help run Con Dor. Each new person adds to Pearl's "Family" and brings something special to the group. I am sure you will want to attend EVERY ConDor.

Check out the art show. Many of these artists have things at Comic Con International and much larger conventions but it is far friendlier and less crowded. You can take your time to view the art work without 100s of unruly people running around. Plus, you have a good chance of actually meeting some of the artists like Sue Dawe (AKA fantasy writer Susan Underwood) and other internationally known artists.

I am sure you and other new comers will feel at home immediately and will want to become regulars. Friendly, relaxed and you will probably never get bored. The convention is run by fans just like you. There is a con talk back at the end &/or you can comment here. Make sure to introduce yourself to Pearl so she can officially welcome you to the family.

Enjoy your stay.

Pete Amend

Note: Sung to the tune from Disney's Oliver, "Come Consider Yourself... Part of the Family"