| Summary The phenomenon that ACOR has become is evident from the
spirited discussion that the latest has produced. Its accessibility for
both novice and old-hand is seen throughout the threads that were
generated in this Salon. In some ways the ACOR experience is like the old
saw about the blind men describing an elephant. For some the highlight was
the Dealers’ Row; for others it was the presentations; and for still
others it was the exhibitions or the general aura of congeniality. In
retrospect I may have been a little hard on the level of merchandise
available for sale. Your comments have made me reconsider the quality of
many of the things I passed by dismissively. Maybe it’s just some sort of
protective reaction to keep me from pissing away my children’s college
funds. I’m not sure myself. I was intrigued by the criticisms. Almost all
of them were couched in language approaching apologetic. It was as though
we’d all gone on a great date but later - sitting around having a drink
with friends - realized there was a piece of spinach between her teeth all
evening. One feels a little ungenerous pointing it out, but still....
Finally, I am of mixed emotions about the interest raised by this Salon.
Favorable publicity may be the last thing ACOR needs. As was pointed out
several times, size is the enemy of a successful ACOR. Yet I cannot
imagine how someone who has never attended one, reading the postings in
this Salon, would not be eager to attend the next. For this I apologize to
the intrepid group of volunteers who have the daunting task of making us
all happy in Indianapolis in 2002. Thank you all for your participation.
Cordially, -Jerry- |