NEWS:News from the Frankie 95 Festival Organizers: Celebrating Frankie, Registration Re-opening
Posted by rikomatic, approved by rikomatic on Friday May 1, 2009.
Originally posted Friday, May 1, 2009 (3 years ago)
It's great that you are opening this up to more people. However, I thought that registration had been closed because there was a limit to the number of people the venue could hold. Are you moving to a bigger venue to accommodate more people?
Originally posted Friday, May 1, 2009 (3 years ago)
yep. we are looking into getting a second ballroom, which will have live audio and video from the main ballroom every night, depending on how many more registrations we get. [Slight correction from previous post]
Our interest as always is ensuring that the maximum number of people can come to the Festival and that everyone there has an excellent time dancing and enjoying the music and festivities.
Originally posted Saturday, May 2, 2009 (3 years ago)
Awesome!
I assume you'll be able to differentiate between those folks who bought tiks before registration closed the first time and those that bought during the second registration period. This way people won't be concerned about their ability to get into the main room.
Originally posted Saturday, May 2, 2009 (3 years ago)
Quoted from "Jerry" I assume you'll be able to differentiate between those folks who bought tiks before registration closed the first time and those that bought during the second registration period. This way people won't be concerned about their ability to get into the main room.
I find it hard to believe the organizers would segregate people that way, especially since the ticket prices for the second group are more expensive anyway. I would assume the ballrooms are equal access for both groups, it's just that if the main ballroom gets too crowded for anyone's tastes, they can go into the secondary one. Else, how could someone from the first group dance with someone from the second group--I guess have the former deign to dance in the backup ballroom?
Originally posted Saturday, May 2, 2009 (3 years ago)
Thanks for doing this! I wasn't able to come in today for the funeral because it's finals. I'm glad I'll have some time with everyone to celebrate Frankie's life.
Originally posted Saturday, May 2, 2009 (3 years ago)
Quoted from "Glen"
I find it hard to believe the organizers would segregate people that way, especially since the ticket prices for the second group are more expensive anyway. I would assume the ballrooms are equal access for both groups, it's just that if the main ballroom gets too crowded for anyone's tastes, they can go into the secondary one. Else, how could someone from the first group dance with someone from the second group--I guess have the former deign to dance in the backup ballroom?
Or look to the alternate POV, that of those people who paid full price in December and January, with no idea what they were signing up for, who waited patiently for announcements, who booked airfares months ahead and have been planning and saving up carefully -- and even those who flooded the server one evening last month paying top dollars for individual event tickets.
Surely if you were on that side, you'd see Jerry's point and not accuse him/them of "deigning" to mingle... rather appreciate that they want some recognition of their going an extra mile?
Originally posted Saturday, May 2, 2009 (3 years ago)
Quoted from "Atalanta" Or look to the alternate POV, that of those people who paid full price in December and January, with no idea what they were signing up for, who waited patiently for announcements, who booked airfares months ahead and have been planning and saving up carefully -- and even those who flooded the server one evening last month paying top dollars for individual event tickets.
A fool and his money, I guess.
Quoted from "Atalanta" Surely if you were on that side, you'd see Jerry's point and not accuse him/them of "deigning" to mingle... rather appreciate that they want some recognition of their going an extra mile?
Oh they are getting the recognition...I'm not an organizer, but according to the Frankie95 site, the new "full" pass tickets are about 20 more expensive ( 200 vs 239), and the package "does not include [the] Thursday night dance, the show or day-time classes which are all currently sold out." The early birds are still getting a better deal.
Originally posted Saturday, May 2, 2009 (3 years ago)
I read there may possibly be an added charge to cover the cost of the feed sent to the second room to accommodate the additional registrants.
If so, the charge should fairly be picked up by those gaining the direct benefit, the added registrants necessitating the extra room (unless a benefactor steps in). Clearly the organizers can't back charge the existing registrants who paid to be in a ballroom with live music and then possibly downgrade them to the supplemental room with only a video feed for the higher price. That's just not how its done.
Originally posted Sunday, May 3, 2009 (3 years ago)
Quoted from "billy bakelite" I read there may possibly be an added charge to cover the cost of the feed sent to the second room to accommodate the additional registrants.
If so, the charge should fairly be picked up by those gaining the direct benefit, the added registrants necessitating the extra room (unless a benefactor steps in). Clearly the organizers can't back charge the existing registrants who paid to be in a ballroom with live music and then possibly downgrade them to the supplemental room with only a video feed for the higher price. That's just not how its done.
You're misinterpreting the announcement. That charge only refers to viewing the the Show on Sunday. Right now only the first wave of registrant will be able to see that show, live in person. The show can't be moved from its current location which is at fire code capacity. We're working on possibly broadcasting that show to the other ballroom. IF we do that, then there might be a charge for people who want to see it that way depending on how much extra it will cost to do that. That's it. There will be no other charge just for dancing other than what people are paying now.
Originally posted Monday, May 4, 2009 (3 years ago)
Quoted from "Glen"
Quoted from "Atalanta"
Oh they are getting the recognition...I'm not an organizer, but according to the Frankie95 site, the new "full" pass tickets are about 20 more expensive ( 200 vs 239), and the package "does not include [the] Thursday night dance, the show or day-time classes which are all currently sold out." The early birds are still getting a better deal.
Any of the "early birds" wishing to trade their "total package" deals for what I can get now please let me know. I'm not sure I can afford any of it but the shows and the day passes for lessons are big bonus' If I decide to go I may trade you.
To me it's always funny how we look at life with this "zero sum game" approach that someone else getting something means we must be getting cheated. I mean no offense but the truth is this is an awesome chance to celebrate a loving and giving life at any price. I was at Frankie's funeral and I truely wish I had been able to spend the last several years in NY dancing in and around him.
Originally posted Monday, May 4, 2009 (3 years ago)
This is how I hope people will view it.
This event registration was opened up because the primary organizers wanted to mitigate the number of people who would be shut out of this event; even though this makes their lives a lot more difficult on many levels.
My understanding is this was done because they felt Frankie's passing is a profound loss to the entire community, and as such, it was important to be as inclusive as possible. That is the essence of community.
This is no longer a birthday celebration, but a memorial event to mourn Frankie and celebrate his exceptional life, and honor everything he gave to all of us. The primary organizers felt it is important that whoever was willing and capable of making the trek to New York for this, would be able to attend.
I hope that whenever people purchased tickets, they can view it from a less personal, more inclusive, community perspective.
Originally posted Tuesday, May 5, 2009 (3 years ago)
Just saw the "important message" page on the Frankie95 website, with all the additional stuff the Team is planning for the weekend.
I was already kowtowing to the Team hardworking enough to put together such a Fab weekend. Then they had to try and change venues, find alternatives, plan a Memorial service and add tributes. All within 2-3 weeks of the event. All under the pressure of Doing It Good Enough for Frankie. With Lindy Hoppers from around the world watching.
I'd be hard pressed to re-organise my kids' 4th birthday party in that time frame and circumstances.
The organisers are experienced promoters, and passionate lindy hoppers. I think they'd appreciate constructive feedback and support at this time.
Originally posted Saturday, May 9, 2009 (3 years ago)
Quoted from "Wexie" This event registration was opened up because the primary organizers wanted to mitigate the number of people who would be shut out of this event; even though this makes their lives a lot more difficult on many levels.
That's good, it was very nice of the organizers to reopen registration for the 240 tickets given all of the additional difficulties, sacrifices, and burdens it will be adding to them. Also, for the VIP tickets too, from the FAQ page of the Frankie95 site:
Quote Q: I saw on the Web site that a VIP-Plus package for 599 USD was available, what did this include?
A: The limited VIP package included access to the sold-out workshops and Sunday show, access to all the dances (Thursday through Monday), a signed commemorative program, t-shirt, and additional TBA extras from the organizers. There are a limited number of these passes available, e-mail info frankie95.com for further information.
Oh, the pain and burdens the organizers must be bringing upon themselves to sell these 599 tickets. My heart goes out to them--perhaps we should take up a collection for their efforts.
Originally posted Saturday, May 9, 2009 (3 years ago)
WTF is up with your attitude? Do you think the team is somehow trying to extort the community for pleasure and profit? There's at least 20 staffers who have been working our asses off (for free) for months and even more so in the remaining weeks and through the whole event and every single one of us ponied up our 200 for a full weekend ticket six months ago. More than 200 volunteers will each be working 20 hours or more during the event. Everyone is making sacrifices to create a once-in-a-lifetime event. Tickets are only one part of the equation.
You may not be happy with the prices, but the event is not even here yet. You have no idea what kind of bargain you are getting, or what are any of the actual costs to put on this extravaganza, but if you could stop pissing all over the people trying to do the most we can with the funds available, that would be really fantastic.
Saying you don't like the prices is one thing. Taking this sh!tty derisive attitude is another. I conceded your point when it was the first, but the second is not something I can let pass.
I hope you can somehow get past it and come to the festival and enjoy the community, the amazing collection of musicians, the best lindyhop performers and teachers in the world, guests from more than 30 countries -- dancers who've been in this game from the start, since the 80s, during the revival and even newbies -- and celebrate Frankie's memory. Because that's what the rest of us will be doing, whatever the cost in terms of money, time, effort or exhaustion.
Originally posted Saturday, May 9, 2009 (3 years ago)
Quoted from "Glen" Oh, the pain and burdens the organizers must be bringing upon themselves to sell these 599 tickets. My heart goes out to them--perhaps we should take up a collection for their efforts.
There's also this:
Quoted from "Shorty Dave" The idea for a Frankie Manning Fund came from The Frankie Manning 95th Birthday Festival. The organizers decided that if the festival generated any revenue in excess of expenses they would give this money to Frankie to be used in any way he saw fit to promote Frankie's legacy and swing music and lindy hop world-wide. This money was to be housed at the Houston Swing Dance Society in a Frankie Manning Fund account and would be disbursed at the request and under the direction of Frankie (one example of how Frankie might have used the money was to provide "dance scholarships" to kids from Harlem to help support them to attend international camps and events like Herrang).
Prior to Frankie's passing he identified three people who he felt would best represent his legacy and were best positioned to make decisions about any fund established in his name: Chazz Young (Frankie's Son), Cynthia Millman (Frankie's Biographer), Judy Pritchett (Frankie's long time companion and someone dedicated to the history of the Lindy Hop and Frankie's legacy). Now that Frankie is no longer with us we are asking these three people to advise us on how we might best be able to distribute these funds to best remember and honor Frankie and to promote the dance he loved. A portion of the funds collected may go to help with Frankie's funeral, burial and tombstone expenses or in some other way that would be most helpful to his family.
At the very least, don't try to imply that the organizers are simply trying to bring in as much cash as possible for themselves.
Originally posted Saturday, May 9, 2009 (3 years ago)
Quoted from "Glen" That's good, it was very nice of the organizers to reopen registration for the 240 tickets given all of the additional difficulties, sacrifices, and burdens it will be adding to them.
Also, the concept of Early-Bird pricing is hardly revolutionary, or uncommon. The only twist is that they sold out at the early-bird price, and only later were able to open up additional registrations at the "regular" price. You're acting like this is some sort of bait and switch on their part, as if they purposely only offered a limited number to begin with, so they could charge higher prices later on.
Originally posted Saturday, May 9, 2009 (3 years ago)
Quoted from "tonibduguid"
Quoted from "Shorty Dave" The idea for a Frankie Manning Fund came from The Frankie Manning 95th Birthday Festival. The organizers decided that if the festival generated any revenue in excess of expenses they would give this money to Frankie to be used in any way he saw fit to promote Frankie's legacy and swing music and lindy hop world-wide. This money was to be housed at the Houston Swing Dance Society in a Frankie Manning Fund account and would be disbursed at the request and under the direction of Frankie (one example of how Frankie might have used the money was to provide "dance scholarships" to kids from Harlem to help support them to attend international camps and events like Herrang).
Prior to Frankie's passing he identified three people who he felt would best represent his legacy and were best positioned to make decisions about any fund established in his name: Chazz Young (Frankie's Son), Cynthia Millman (Frankie's Biographer), Judy Pritchett (Frankie's long time companion and someone dedicated to the history of the Lindy Hop and Frankie's legacy). Now that Frankie is no longer with us we are asking these three people to advise us on how we might best be able to distribute these funds to best remember and honor Frankie and to promote the dance he loved. A portion of the funds collected may go to help with Frankie's funeral, burial and tombstone expenses or in some other way that would be most helpful to his family.
.
Just a pipe dream thought - I don't really believe this is really possible ... but ... wouldn't it be nice if it would be possible to provide alternative housing for the people who now live in buildings on the site of the Savoy Ballroom and rebuild it as a living memorial to Frankie Manning, Shorty George and all the other dancers and musicians that created this community we all live in?
Yeah, probably will never happen. But it sure would be nice if it did.
"A revolution without dancing is a revolution not worth having" - V
Originally posted Sunday, May 10, 2009 (3 years ago)
Quoted from "tonibduguid"
Quoted from "Glen" Oh, the pain and burdens the organizers must be bringing upon themselves to sell these 599 tickets. My heart goes out to them--perhaps we should take up a collection for their efforts.
There's also this:
Quoted from "Shorty Dave" The idea for a Frankie Manning Fund came from The Frankie Manning 95th Birthday Festival. The organizers decided that if the festival generated any revenue in excess of expenses they would give this money to Frankie to be used in any way he saw fit to promote Frankie's legacy and swing music and lindy hop world-wide. This money was to be housed at the Houston Swing Dance Society in a Frankie Manning Fund account and would be disbursed at the request and under the direction of Frankie (one example of how Frankie might have used the money was to provide "dance scholarships" to kids from Harlem to help support them to attend international camps and events like Herrang).
Prior to Frankie's passing he identified three people who he felt would best represent his legacy and were best positioned to make decisions about any fund established in his name: Chazz Young (Frankie's Son), Cynthia Millman (Frankie's Biographer), Judy Pritchett (Frankie's long time companion and someone dedicated to the history of the Lindy Hop and Frankie's legacy). Now that Frankie is no longer with us we are asking these three people to advise us on how we might best be able to distribute these funds to best remember and honor Frankie and to promote the dance he loved. A portion of the funds collected may go to help with Frankie's funeral, burial and tombstone expenses or in some other way that would be most helpful to his family.
At the very least, don't try to imply that the organizers are simply trying to bring in as much cash as possible for themselves.
Toni, I don't know their motivations, but I was cynical about Wexie's feeling that the organizers were primarily motivated by altruism (that they're doing this for us, even though it makes things much harder for them), just because of the significant revenues and demand for the tickets. Atalanta was confusing the issue when she was talking about staffers and volunteers--I made no reference to either. I'm talking about the organizers--i.e., the people collecting the Pay Pal money from the registrations, and their decision to expand the event to larger/multiple ballrooms. (Also note "Revenue in excess of expenses" as you cited above can mean anything depending on how much--if anything--they pay themselves for their time and efforts invested. On this topic I have no clue.)
Still, the website does not seem really clear about whether or not charitable donations will actually be made and to which organization. The Frankie95 FAQ page you cite above mentions a Frankie Manning Fund, which is the Houston-based organization cited on Frankie's personal home page. However, the <a href="http://www.frankie95.com/birthdaygreeting.php">Birthday Greeting Page</a> claims all will go to a 100 tax-deductible Frankie Manning Foundation with the money being directed by Frankie himself (obviously the page needs updating). Which organization is getting the money? Now before you roll your eyes and insist that they are the same organization, please note the Fund definition above says that it may be paying for Frankie's burial expenses--and for things "in some other way that would be most helpful to his family"--neither of which seem like something you can create a tax-deductible non-profit organization over. So that would imply that they are not the same organization, but I really don't know.
Originally posted Sunday, May 10, 2009 (3 years ago)
You coming to Frankie 95, Glen?
Also:
Quoted from "Glen" On this topic I have no clue.
Understatement of the year.
Quoted from "Glen" Atalanta was confusing the issue when she was talking about staffers and volunteers--I made no reference to either. I'm talking about the organizers--i.e., the people collecting the Pay Pal money from the registrations, and their decision to expand the event to larger/multiple ballrooms.
You think anyone putting this together is getting paid anything significant from doing this? HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA.
Originally posted Sunday, May 10, 2009 (3 years ago)
Glen:
By "staffers", i meant everyone from the tip-top of the committee on down. I didn't distinguish "organizers" as separate, since we're all organizing our own areas. In other words, everyone who's not a "volunteer" -- who are earning a weekend pass in exchange for a mere 20 hours of labor during the festival. I ASSURE you, the volunteers are getting the best deal. The rest of us are putting in far more than 20 hours, we have all-- ALL-- paid our 200, and in many cases, staffers/organizers are dipping deeper into their own pockets.
It is so totally the opposite of making a profit, it would be absurdist humor if there was anything at all funny about this line of questioning. This is the most sincere and uncynical thing I've EVER been involved with and it's outrageous that you are implying -- no, wait, you are plain out-and-out stating -- that it's some kind of nefarious scheme to make a profit. You are utterly out of touch with the reality of the situation. And no one has the obligation to share the financial details with you, so don't start thinking that they will.
It's not like there is nothing to criticize already, or that any criticism is unfounded. There will be mistakes made, there will be messy moments, and there will be some frustration. It's 2000 people over 5 days -- it's inevitable that not all will go perfectly. But damn, don't take something that's beautiful in its intention and dump a bunch of crap on it before it's even started.
Not that I'm threatening you, as I have zero power to anything about it -- and you'd best appreciate that right about now -- but if i could offer you a refund and disinvite you and your toxic, unfathomable cynicism and suspicion, your rumor-mongering and your nasty attitude, I would be delighted to do so. I'd even refund your PayPal fee and/or your 42-cent stamp, plus the 3 interest you'd have earned on the money in a savings account over six months. :evil:
Originally posted Sunday, May 10, 2009 (3 years ago)
Quoted from "Atalanta" Not that I'm threatening you, as I have zero power to anything about it -- and you'd best appreciate that right about now -- but if i could offer you a refund and disinvite you and your toxic, unfathomable cynicism and suspicion, your rumor-mongering and your nasty attitude, I would be delighted to do so. I'd even refund your PayPal fee and/or your 42-cent stamp, plus the 3 interest you'd have earned on the money in a savings account over six months. :evil:
Atalanta, I'm not going to Frankie95. I was confused by the information that you were giving me. I did not realize you were an organizer--i.e., someone with input in the direction of the event, I thought you were a volunteer helping the organizers. This is what you wrote:
Quote There's at least 20 staffers who have been working our asses off (for free) for months and even more so in the remaining weeks and through the whole event and every single one of us ponied up our 200 for a full weekend ticket six months ago. More than 200 volunteers will each be working 20 hours or more during the event.
Thinking that you were a volunteer, and reading what you wrote, I thought: "Gosh, those organizers are having Atalanta do all this work and they're too cheap to give her a free ticket! Those 200 volunteers working 20 hours also aren't getting a discount!" That's what I was thinking, and under those circumstances, I was just wondering where the money was going then (200 volunteers each paying a full ticket is a lot of cash).
But now you've explained the situation better for me. It's good to know that the volunteers will be getting free tickets for their labor, as for you, well, I'm sorry you were not provided a free ticket for your efforts as well. Time is money, and you should also be reimbursed for your efforts, organizer or not. Hopefully with the reopening of registrations, more money will come in so that will be able to happen.
The mix-up was occurring, Atalanta, because you were claiming about all the sacrifices you were making as an organizer, I thought those were sacrifices you were making as a volunteer, and hence I implied the organizers were cheap for not taking better care of you. You, being an organizer, were doubly offended then ("I just told Glen all the sacrifices I was making and he's calling me greedy!!!") Sorry for the mix-up.
Originally posted Sunday, May 10, 2009 (3 years ago)
Thank you. I'm glad that it was a misunderstanding for me to perceive you as a nasty naysayer. I also apologize for the mixup.
The organizers are working very hard and not taking any profits. I am more of a volunteer in that I'm in wholly in charge of housing, and contribute opinions and labor in other areas, but I'm not an executive decision-maker for the event -- for example, I can't authorize free tickets for hosts, and i'm not privy to any of the financial details, though I'm informed of generalities.
In an extremely nonprofit event like this, the lines get very blurred. The official organizers might get a little more credit, but they also bear more of the responsibility. So yeah, I got a little defensive for the team, since I don't want anyone to think we/they are doing anything less than our best, with really good intentions and community spirit.
Originally posted Sunday, May 10, 2009 (3 years ago)
hi everyone,
quick question about the festivities. i believe i read that there will now be a memorial for frankie at 10 AM on friday, for those who were not able to attend his funeral services. however, i recall that tryouts for the master class track were at 10 AM on friday as well? will those be rescheduled, or will people have to choose to attend one or the other? any information is greatly appreciated!
Originally posted Sunday, May 10, 2009 (3 years ago)
Quoted from "Emily V" hi everyone,
quick question about the festivities. i believe i read that there will now be a memorial for frankie at 10 AM on friday, for those who were not able to attend his funeral services. however, i recall that tryouts for the master class track were at 10 AM on friday as well? will those be rescheduled, or will people have to choose to attend one or the other? any information is greatly appreciated!
thank you so much,
emily
They're being rescheduled so everyone can go to the memorial services. They're going to be at 9 am on Saturday.
News from the Frankie 95 Festival Organizers: Celebrating Fr
NEWS: News from the Frankie 95 Festival Organizers: Celebrating Frankie, Registration Re-opening Posted by rikomatic, approved by rikomatic on Friday May 1, 2009.
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It's great that you are opening this up to more people. However, I thought that registration had been closed because there was a limit to the number of people the venue could hold. Are you moving to a bigger venue to accommodate more people?
yep. we are looking into getting a second ballroom, which will have live audio and video from the main ballroom every night, depending on how many more registrations we get. [Slight correction from previous post]
Our interest as always is ensuring that the maximum number of people can come to the Festival and that everyone there has an excellent time dancing and enjoying the music and festivities.
Awesome Dance Movies • Teaching Teens to Charleston is Awesome
Awesome!
I assume you'll be able to differentiate between those folks who bought tiks before registration closed the first time and those that bought during the second registration period. This way people won't be concerned about their ability to get into the main room.
I find it hard to believe the organizers would segregate people that way, especially since the ticket prices for the second group are more expensive anyway. I would assume the ballrooms are equal access for both groups, it's just that if the main ballroom gets too crowded for anyone's tastes, they can go into the secondary one. Else, how could someone from the first group dance with someone from the second group--I guess have the former deign to dance in the backup ballroom?
Thanks for doing this! I wasn't able to come in today for the funeral because it's finals. I'm glad I'll have some time with everyone to celebrate Frankie's life.
Or look to the alternate POV, that of those people who paid full price in December and January, with no idea what they were signing up for, who waited patiently for announcements, who booked airfares months ahead and have been planning and saving up carefully -- and even those who flooded the server one evening last month paying top dollars for individual event tickets. Surely if you were on that side, you'd see Jerry's point and not accuse him/them of "deigning" to mingle... rather appreciate that they want some recognition of their going an extra mile?
A fool and his money, I guess.
Oh they are getting the recognition...I'm not an organizer, but according to the Frankie95 site, the new "full" pass tickets are about 20 more expensive ( 200 vs 239), and the package "does not include [the] Thursday night dance, the show or day-time classes which are all currently sold out." The early birds are still getting a better deal.
Fair point.
I read there may possibly be an added charge to cover the cost of the feed sent to the second room to accommodate the additional registrants.
If so, the charge should fairly be picked up by those gaining the direct benefit, the added registrants necessitating the extra room (unless a benefactor steps in). Clearly the organizers can't back charge the existing registrants who paid to be in a ballroom with live music and then possibly downgrade them to the supplemental room with only a video feed for the higher price. That's just not how its done.
You're misinterpreting the announcement. That charge only refers to viewing the the Show on Sunday. Right now only the first wave of registrant will be able to see that show, live in person. The show can't be moved from its current location which is at fire code capacity. We're working on possibly broadcasting that show to the other ballroom. IF we do that, then there might be a charge for people who want to see it that way depending on how much extra it will cost to do that. That's it. There will be no other charge just for dancing other than what people are paying now.
Jerry
My Blog: http://jsalmonte.wordpress.com/
Thanks for clearing that up.... never mind.
Any of the "early birds" wishing to trade their "total package" deals for what I can get now please let me know. I'm not sure I can afford any of it but the shows and the day passes for lessons are big bonus' If I decide to go I may trade you.
To me it's always funny how we look at life with this "zero sum game" approach that someone else getting something means we must be getting cheated. I mean no offense but the truth is this is an awesome chance to celebrate a loving and giving life at any price. I was at Frankie's funeral and I truely wish I had been able to spend the last several years in NY dancing in and around him.
This is how I hope people will view it.
This event registration was opened up because the primary organizers wanted to mitigate the number of people who would be shut out of this event; even though this makes their lives a lot more difficult on many levels.
My understanding is this was done because they felt Frankie's passing is a profound loss to the entire community, and as such, it was important to be as inclusive as possible. That is the essence of community.
This is no longer a birthday celebration, but a memorial event to mourn Frankie and celebrate his exceptional life, and honor everything he gave to all of us. The primary organizers felt it is important that whoever was willing and capable of making the trek to New York for this, would be able to attend.
I hope that whenever people purchased tickets, they can view it from a less personal, more inclusive, community perspective.
Just saw the "important message" page on the Frankie95 website, with all the additional stuff the Team is planning for the weekend.
I was already kowtowing to the Team hardworking enough to put together such a Fab weekend. Then they had to try and change venues, find alternatives, plan a Memorial service and add tributes. All within 2-3 weeks of the event. All under the pressure of Doing It Good Enough for Frankie. With Lindy Hoppers from around the world watching.
I'd be hard pressed to re-organise my kids' 4th birthday party in that time frame and circumstances.
The organisers are experienced promoters, and passionate lindy hoppers. I think they'd appreciate constructive feedback and support at this time.
Jia you, organisers! ("jia you!" = "add oil!" = "you go!")
I'd also like to thank the organizers for re-opening the registration and going through all of the hard work of changing venues.
Thank you so much!!
That's good, it was very nice of the organizers to reopen registration for the 240 tickets given all of the additional difficulties, sacrifices, and burdens it will be adding to them. Also, for the VIP tickets too, from the FAQ page of the Frankie95 site:
Oh, the pain and burdens the organizers must be bringing upon themselves to sell these 599 tickets. My heart goes out to them--perhaps we should take up a collection for their efforts.
Glen
WTF is up with your attitude? Do you think the team is somehow trying to extort the community for pleasure and profit? There's at least 20 staffers who have been working our asses off (for free) for months and even more so in the remaining weeks and through the whole event and every single one of us ponied up our 200 for a full weekend ticket six months ago. More than 200 volunteers will each be working 20 hours or more during the event. Everyone is making sacrifices to create a once-in-a-lifetime event. Tickets are only one part of the equation.
You may not be happy with the prices, but the event is not even here yet. You have no idea what kind of bargain you are getting, or what are any of the actual costs to put on this extravaganza, but if you could stop pissing all over the people trying to do the most we can with the funds available, that would be really fantastic.
Saying you don't like the prices is one thing. Taking this sh!tty derisive attitude is another. I conceded your point when it was the first, but the second is not something I can let pass.
I hope you can somehow get past it and come to the festival and enjoy the community, the amazing collection of musicians, the best lindyhop performers and teachers in the world, guests from more than 30 countries -- dancers who've been in this game from the start, since the 80s, during the revival and even newbies -- and celebrate Frankie's memory. Because that's what the rest of us will be doing, whatever the cost in terms of money, time, effort or exhaustion.
There's also this:
At the very least, don't try to imply that the organizers are simply trying to bring in as much cash as possible for themselves.
Bears. Beets. Battlestar Galactica.
Also, the concept of Early-Bird pricing is hardly revolutionary, or uncommon. The only twist is that they sold out at the early-bird price, and only later were able to open up additional registrations at the "regular" price. You're acting like this is some sort of bait and switch on their part, as if they purposely only offered a limited number to begin with, so they could charge higher prices later on.
Bears. Beets. Battlestar Galactica.
Just a pipe dream thought - I don't really believe this is really possible ... but ... wouldn't it be nice if it would be possible to provide alternative housing for the people who now live in buildings on the site of the Savoy Ballroom and rebuild it as a living memorial to Frankie Manning, Shorty George and all the other dancers and musicians that created this community we all live in?
Yeah, probably will never happen. But it sure would be nice if it did.
"A revolution without dancing is a revolution not worth having" - V
Toni, I don't know their motivations, but I was cynical about Wexie's feeling that the organizers were primarily motivated by altruism (that they're doing this for us, even though it makes things much harder for them), just because of the significant revenues and demand for the tickets. Atalanta was confusing the issue when she was talking about staffers and volunteers--I made no reference to either. I'm talking about the organizers--i.e., the people collecting the Pay Pal money from the registrations, and their decision to expand the event to larger/multiple ballrooms. (Also note "Revenue in excess of expenses" as you cited above can mean anything depending on how much--if anything--they pay themselves for their time and efforts invested. On this topic I have no clue.)
Still, the website does not seem really clear about whether or not charitable donations will actually be made and to which organization. The Frankie95 FAQ page you cite above mentions a Frankie Manning Fund, which is the Houston-based organization cited on Frankie's personal home page. However, the <a href="http://www.frankie95.com/birthdaygreeting.php">Birthday Greeting Page</a> claims all will go to a 100 tax-deductible Frankie Manning Foundation with the money being directed by Frankie himself (obviously the page needs updating). Which organization is getting the money? Now before you roll your eyes and insist that they are the same organization, please note the Fund definition above says that it may be paying for Frankie's burial expenses--and for things "in some other way that would be most helpful to his family"--neither of which seem like something you can create a tax-deductible non-profit organization over. So that would imply that they are not the same organization, but I really don't know.
You coming to Frankie 95, Glen?
Also:
Understatement of the year.
You think anyone putting this together is getting paid anything significant from doing this? HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA.
Glen: By "staffers", i meant everyone from the tip-top of the committee on down. I didn't distinguish "organizers" as separate, since we're all organizing our own areas. In other words, everyone who's not a "volunteer" -- who are earning a weekend pass in exchange for a mere 20 hours of labor during the festival. I ASSURE you, the volunteers are getting the best deal. The rest of us are putting in far more than 20 hours, we have all-- ALL-- paid our 200, and in many cases, staffers/organizers are dipping deeper into their own pockets.
It is so totally the opposite of making a profit, it would be absurdist humor if there was anything at all funny about this line of questioning. This is the most sincere and uncynical thing I've EVER been involved with and it's outrageous that you are implying -- no, wait, you are plain out-and-out stating -- that it's some kind of nefarious scheme to make a profit. You are utterly out of touch with the reality of the situation. And no one has the obligation to share the financial details with you, so don't start thinking that they will.
It's not like there is nothing to criticize already, or that any criticism is unfounded. There will be mistakes made, there will be messy moments, and there will be some frustration. It's 2000 people over 5 days -- it's inevitable that not all will go perfectly. But damn, don't take something that's beautiful in its intention and dump a bunch of crap on it before it's even started.
Not that I'm threatening you, as I have zero power to anything about it -- and you'd best appreciate that right about now -- but if i could offer you a refund and disinvite you and your toxic, unfathomable cynicism and suspicion, your rumor-mongering and your nasty attitude, I would be delighted to do so. I'd even refund your PayPal fee and/or your 42-cent stamp, plus the 3 interest you'd have earned on the money in a savings account over six months. :evil:
Atalanta, I'm not going to Frankie95. I was confused by the information that you were giving me. I did not realize you were an organizer--i.e., someone with input in the direction of the event, I thought you were a volunteer helping the organizers. This is what you wrote:
Thinking that you were a volunteer, and reading what you wrote, I thought: "Gosh, those organizers are having Atalanta do all this work and they're too cheap to give her a free ticket! Those 200 volunteers working 20 hours also aren't getting a discount!" That's what I was thinking, and under those circumstances, I was just wondering where the money was going then (200 volunteers each paying a full ticket is a lot of cash).
But now you've explained the situation better for me. It's good to know that the volunteers will be getting free tickets for their labor, as for you, well, I'm sorry you were not provided a free ticket for your efforts as well. Time is money, and you should also be reimbursed for your efforts, organizer or not. Hopefully with the reopening of registrations, more money will come in so that will be able to happen.
The mix-up was occurring, Atalanta, because you were claiming about all the sacrifices you were making as an organizer, I thought those were sacrifices you were making as a volunteer, and hence I implied the organizers were cheap for not taking better care of you. You, being an organizer, were doubly offended then ("I just told Glen all the sacrifices I was making and he's calling me greedy!!!") Sorry for the mix-up.
Glen
Thank you. I'm glad that it was a misunderstanding for me to perceive you as a nasty naysayer. I also apologize for the mixup.
The organizers are working very hard and not taking any profits. I am more of a volunteer in that I'm in wholly in charge of housing, and contribute opinions and labor in other areas, but I'm not an executive decision-maker for the event -- for example, I can't authorize free tickets for hosts, and i'm not privy to any of the financial details, though I'm informed of generalities.
In an extremely nonprofit event like this, the lines get very blurred. The official organizers might get a little more credit, but they also bear more of the responsibility. So yeah, I got a little defensive for the team, since I don't want anyone to think we/they are doing anything less than our best, with really good intentions and community spirit.
hi everyone,
quick question about the festivities. i believe i read that there will now be a memorial for frankie at 10 AM on friday, for those who were not able to attend his funeral services. however, i recall that tryouts for the master class track were at 10 AM on friday as well? will those be rescheduled, or will people have to choose to attend one or the other? any information is greatly appreciated!
thank you so much,
emily
They're being rescheduled so everyone can go to the memorial services. They're going to be at 9 am on Saturday.
Jerry
My Blog: http://jsalmonte.wordpress.com/
The latest (and greatest) version of the schedule is now up here: http://frankie95.com/schedule.php
the lineup is sensational. the question is, when do I sleep?
The answer is "Why Bother Sleeping?"
y i no haz signature? Come on people, make with the funny.
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