Midwest Clown Association Convention

contrachapado · #1 (**permalink**) 07-09-2008, 12:17 AM

On another thread somebody mentioned this convention, and I was wondering if it's something that would benefit a newbie clown. It's in Oconomowoc (relatively close), and costs less than the two local clown camps, so it could be a good alternative for me. I assume you have to be a member to attend? Any input would be muchly appreciated. Thanks!

Fitzwilly · #2 (**permalink**) 07-09-2008, 12:34 AM

Well, I might be able to help with an answer as I am currently the Midwest Clown Association's President.

The good news is that anyone (anyclown ?) living within the seven states that make up the MCA is automatically a member of the MCA. There are no dues, although there is a quarterly newsletter/mini magazine that you can subscribe to for $12 or $15.

More good news: It would be a great idea for you to attend! There are plenty of classes to choose from as well as other events going on throughout the week that you will enjoy as well as learn. Cousin Otto's Alley (this years hosts) have lined up a tremendous dealer's room.

For those of you who haven't heard or seen the website: Welcome

contrachapado · #3 (**permalink**) 07-09-2008, 12:49 AM

The cost of the hotel is in addition to the registration cost, correct? Do attendees have to find their own roommates, or is that something that can be facilitated by the coordinators? Unfortunately, I don't know any other local clowns.

Pickles · #4 (**permalink**) 07-09-2008, 08:40 AM

Daisy:

There is a chance I will be attending part of the conference. I have a gig on Saturday night, so, if I go, I will need to leave a day early.

I had talked about the possibility of carpooling with a clown who lives in MN, (you're in Eau Claire, right? I'm in River Falls.) so if I do go, and you don't mind leaving early, that is a possibility.

I'm going to Moose Camp, too, so the money situation will dictate my decision. And also if Husband can tend to the chillins while I'm away.

It looks like it's going to be a fabulous conference, and I can't stress enough how helpful these events are for clowns with all levels of experience. I remember being so pumped after my first conference -- it's worth every penny!

Pickles · #5 (**permalink**) 07-09-2008, 08:42 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Fitzwilly

The good news is that anyone (anyclown ?) living within the seven states that make up the MCA is automatically a member of the MCA. There are no dues, although there is a quarterly newsletter/mini magazine that you can subscribe to for $12 or $15.

Wow, I'm an MCA member and I didn't even know it? Cool!

So, Fitz, tell me honestly, is the newsletter worth subscribing to? I didn't know about that either.

contrachapado · #6 (**permalink**) 07-09-2008, 09:57 AM

Yep, Pickles, I'm in Eau Claire. I haven't talked to my husband about going yet, just thinking about it so far. But if I do, carpooling sounds good to me. I'd rather not have to chop off a limb to pay for gas.

Fitzwilly · #7 (**permalink**) 07-09-2008, 11:12 AM

The hotel is in addition to the registration cost. Sometimes people will let the host alley know ahead of time if they are looking for room mates but genrerally a board is posted by the registration table and if you are looking you leave a note there.

The 3 Ring News - To be honest it is rather boarderline at times. MCA doesn't have the budget of the big boys and it shows. Marilyn does a good job but she is busy and trying to do much of the paper herself. It is published quarterly, and the issue that recaps the convention is in full color. It is a good way to keep track of friends. In this day and age it is hard to keep up with near instant communication like this Forum. I find some interesting information there and since it is cheap and has been printed for nearly 35 years I would hate to see it dissappear.

Duckie · #8 (**permalink**) 07-09-2008, 11:33 AM

Hey there Pickles and anyone else that is going to convention, please make sure you find me and let me know who you are!!!!!!! I shouldn't be hard to find. I'm one of the ones with the biggest mouths at convention.

If there's a commotion, then I'm more than likely a part of it!!!!! LOL

Pickles · #9 (**permalink**) 07-09-2008, 12:47 PM

Let me gush over Clown Forum for just a few lines.

I think it's so very cool that I can go to a clown conference, and, although I haven't met ANY of the clowns face to face, I already consider many of them to be friends (thanks to Clown Forum). Duckie, I'll be on the look-out for the loudest, rowdiest clown at the conference.

Bookworm · #10 (**permalink**) 07-09-2008, 03:21 PM

I wish i could go. I'm so close, but I can't miss any school.