Bitcoin Forum

http://www.bitcoinconvention2012.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/BC_2012_930x160_banner-500x86.jpg (http://www.bitcoinconvention2012.com/)

This thread will be used for making announcements regarding the upcoming conference and I'll update it as new information becomes available. Today, I'm pleased to announce the re-launching of the new and improved BitCon website (http://www.bitcoinconvention2012.com/). Thanks to BTCinch, you can send any amount of bitcoins anonymously through the Checkout button in the sidebar, or use the SCI to become a Supporter, Sponsor, or Exhibitor.

In addition, the contract with the hotels has been signed and the instructions necessary to get our discounted group rate should be posted here sometime during the next week. I will also be touring the hotels and convention center on Friday, October 21st and anyone in the San Antonio area is welcome to join me.

Your suggestions for making this event as beneficial to the bitcoin community as possible are strongly encouraged.

List of community members that will be in attendance

• edd
• Littleshop
• Immanuel Go
• evoorhees
• btcontilt
• Phinnaeus Gage
• tbdunamis
• michaelmclees
• dustintrammell
• FreeMoney

List of confirmed exhibitors

• BitBrew
• Bitcoin Leather by Martin Basurto
• Cryptoanarchy.com/Littleshop

List of confirmed speakers, panelists, and special guests

• ceptacle.com (http://ceptacle.com/)

I genuinely want to go, it is far enough away where I hope I can.

To make this post more useful, some questions that maybe you can edit into the first post there.  Just regarding list of any attendees that wish to say that they are attending, whether it be business or just personally showing up.

Good idea.

With any luck, I'll be driving there in my bitcoin purchased wheels that runs on burning money.

thanks for all your support. i will be MC of the event.

Last chance to join me tomorrow morning for a tour of the hotel and convention center. If you aren't in the area but have a question for me to ask about the lodging or venue, please post it here.

Check back for updates tomorrow afternoon!

Will the real Bruce Wagner please stand up?

edd, I'm pretty far from Texas, so I can't come even though I want to.
I sincerely hope it's not just you and Atlas xD

Kind of funny, but kind of not, I wonder how many people would not use a venue based on one attendee.

Honestly, I feel there would be a good amount of people who would not support a convention based on something like, let's say Bruce attending.

Quite a few forum members have expressed a desire to attend, sponsor, and/or purchase exhibit space but I'm holding off on listing them until I get firm confirmations, i.e. "I am definitely attending" or actually sending some bitcoins. However, even if only 50% of those I've corresponded with are serious, I think we'll have a really nice turnout. Immanuel/Atlas has just been the only one (so far) to come right out and post such a clear cut affirmative response. It's still early, though, and I haven't really had anything definite to announce, myself, other than a location and dates.

In addition, I think the role of the attendee in question would make a big difference in turnout. I mean, that was the main reason I decided to tackle this monster myself - I believe many would not only avoid a conference Bruce organized, but would actively work against it. On the other hand, if he was just one attendee out of hundreds, present only as a guest, I doubt anyone would intentionally miss out on what could be a great opportunity to interact with all of the other noteworthy people in attendance.

I may be able to make this.  :)

Wish I could make it. So close, yet so far! Have a good time, and stop by the Occupy event when you're there.

It's a shame this is going to be cancelled because Bitcoin is dead otherwise I might have gone.

I think my response was pretty positive too.

Update:
Tour of the center and hotels went well. I arrived at the agreed upon meeting place in a suit and on time, hopefully defusing any concerns anyone might have had about the types of visitors I was bringing into our fair city. The Hyatt salesperson assured me that their reservations department will have our dedicated URL ready in a couple of days for anyone wishing to make an early reservation (which I highly recommend - remember, the Grand Hyatt has already sold out the night of Friday, March 16th).

The convention center representative also provided this photo of the exhibit hall I currently have on hold:
http://www.bitcoinconvention2012.com/imgs/Exhibit%20Hall%20B%20Birdseye.JPG



You're right, it was and I've added you to the list. My apologies.

I finally have some substantial news regarding the convention to announce.

First, I'd like to thank Seals With Clubs (https://sealswithclubs.org/) for becoming an official sponsor. Please go play some poker and encourage Freemoney to try to attend the conference in person.
http://www.bitcoinconvention2012.com/imgs/sealswithclubs-180x85.jpg (https://sealswithclubs.org/)

Now, the really big news! You can now check availability and make your reservations with our discounted rate (which includes free in-room internet) at the Grand Hyatt and Hyatt Regency by using the following links:

Grand Hyatt San Antonio (https://resweb.passkey.com/Resweb.do?mode=welcome_gi_new&groupID=6230119)

Hyatt Regency San Antonio Riverwalk (https://resweb.passkey.com/Resweb.do?mode=welcome_gi_new&groupID=6187309)

Immanuel Go wii be there. OMG.

They Hyatt will be wondering what is this "TOR" web site everyone was connecting to that weekend  :D

Somebody beat the shit out of that little brat for me.

I'll be there!!!

Great! List of attendees updated.

We will most likely be attending

I'll add you to the list.

Will you have an exhibit table as well?

Yep definitely will be going the exhibit table route.  Our team is spread across Dallas and Houston so this will be a close drive for us. 

Is there a min amount of rooms that need to be reserved? And if so how many do you have so far?

80% of the rooms I have on hold need to be filled. The last day our discounted rate will be available is February 24th. On that day, I have two choices if we still have unsold rooms: I can ask the hotels to extend our cut-off day, or I can release the rooms and hope that they are filled by travellers willing to pay the regular rate.

I'm at work right now, but the last time I checked, no one had made a reservation yet.

Add me to the list of attendees and exhibitors (Bitcoin Leather by Martin Basurto http://www.hotbikeweb.com/tech/0813_hbkp_hand_tooled_leather_seats/viewall.html)

Is it mandatory to stay at the Hyatt while attending the conference? Also, I can plan on arriving a few days early to lend a hand for setting up or anything else that needs addressing. I can also act as one of your volunteers/liaisons during the convention to make sure the event goes smoothly. I even know how to use a microphone, for I've emceed shows in Nashville for several years. Let me know how I can be of service to help make this a great convention.

Bruno

I added you to the list of attendees above. Reserve your exhibit table (http://www.bitcoinconvention2012.com/store/index.php?route=product/product&path=60&product_id=52) and I'll add you to the "official" list of exhibitors.

Staying at one of the Hyatt's isn't mandatory but the block of rooms I have on hold are at a discounted rate and include in-room internet.

There will be plenty to do in the days immediately preceding the event, so I will take you up on your offer to help. Setting up the venue will be taken care of by their staff and each exhibitor will be responsible for their own space; the biggest hassle will be supervising and making sure everyone knows what they can and cannot do and where they can and cannot do it.

Just want to confirm that the exhibit table spot is only 12 BTC. I'm toying with bringing my own table. Also, what is the discount rate of the rooms? Plus, I'll do whatever you need me to do to help out before, during and after the convention. Just name it, and I'll probably do it.

Yep, exhibit table is still only 12 BTC. Don't worry about bringing your own table unless it's really necessary for your display. The Convention Center has plenty and they're included in the price, along with table linen and skirting.

Our room rate at the Grand is $199/night and at the Regency, it's $195/night. If you search online for rooms at these or comparable hotels, you'll find different rates depending on what kind of specials that are floating around out there, but I seriously doubt you'll find anything better. If anyone does find better rates at these or other hotels during that weekend that are available to the general public, please let me know. It has been known to happen and I will be able to re-negotiate the contract armed with that information.

I just sent 12 BTC to reserve a table spot. Please confirm that received the funds.

I have stayed at Microtels many times, and yet to have a bad experience. Here is a link: https://reservation.magnusonhotels.com/bbe/page2.aspx?checkin=03%2F17%2F2012&nights=2&rooms=1&adults=1&children=0&promo=&corp=&group=&IATA=&Search=Check+Availability&propertyID=8982

Senior and AAA rates are $53.10. I sure do hate taking away $ from Hyatt after they've been so kind to provide a convention venue. I'm sure they won't take it personal, though.

I'm sure that I can get a package deal from them. My dad used to own the original Super 8 in Brookings, SD. Well, at least the building(s) where the first franchise was established, that is. I sure do miss the fishing in South Dakota.

Thanks for sponsoring our event guys.

I was curious how you are going to pay for the convention room with payments of 12 btc for a table.  How many tables do you need to sell to pay for the room?
This was a problem we ran into that nobody paid until the last fortnight but we had to pay the room a month in advance, we had no idea how many people would turn up.

The photo of the convention centre looks like many thousands of dollars a day, how many bitcoin businesses are there?

Hopefully you have all this under control, good luck with your event.

Your BTC has been received and I've added you to the list of exhibitors at the top of the thread.

I'm sure Microtels are nice, but they're classified as "two star hotels" and I can't ask a four star hotel to match their prices. Everyone is free to stay wherever they like - my goal is to provide the best possible experience for every budget.


Thanks, worldly! I really wish I had been able to make it to Prague. It sounds like it was a great event.

I've decided to go with a smaller room at the convention center than the one pictured above. The convention center has been kind enough to agree to charge us only for the space actually used during the convention, but there is a non-refundable minimum amount required up front and it is quite a bit for the large exhibit hall. The smaller exhibit area is still 16,600 square feet and I have a sponsor lined up who has agreed to help me pay for the deposit/minimum.

12 BTC at the current exchange rate is almost exactly enough to cover the cost of the space each exhibitor will occupy. Sponsors and a stronger exchange rate are what I'm counting on to pay for additional expenses like audio/visual, advertising, administrative costs, food, etc.

So, to answer your question, once I get that minimum payment submitted to the convention center, then even if it's only Atlas, Phinnaeus, and myself sitting in a huge empty hall, my losses won't be insurmountable.

Sure, well my head is still hurting from the conference organising.
Let me know if you need any help, we learnt a lot this time.

You will certainly be getting some PM's from me!  :D

I might be there, if I can get time off of work and scrape together some gas money.

I'm sure, edd, worldly will have a wealth of information to provide you to make sure the SA convention goes smoothly.


So true, in re. not asking a 4* to compete with a 2* chain. I just realized that the link I provided above was for Micro Inn and not Microtel. I'm already in the process of getting a group rate from, them. During the course of the conversation, I was able to secure a $100 off-type-coupon good for my next Microtel stay. If anyone else wants the same deal, all they have to go is stand on top of Rassah's coffee table donning evoorhees's costume and ask me nicely. I may be inclined to forego two of those steps, but you decide.

Also, edd, I went and sent 2.5 BTC to be a sponsor. Please verify that you received those funds, as well. I'll forego the link to Bitcoin Leather at this time.

Bruno

Bruno/Phinnaeus, the funds have been received and I went ahead and linked your user name to your profile here on the Credits Page (http://www.bitcoinconvention2012.com/credits/). Just give me the word and I will link it to wherever you like or leave it link free.

You, and everyone else, can call me Bruno.

Thank you for the confirmation.

Like I've already stated, I'm planning on being in San Antonio days leading up to the convention and one or two days afterwards. I'll follow up with that Microtel info when it comes available. I look forward to receiving a call from them tomorrow.

Don't sweat the turnout. I'm confident that we'll have at least 100 people in attendance. It won't be just you, me and Atlas playing Rock-Paper-Scissors-Lizard-Spock. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iapcKVn7DdY

I am tentatively planning on attending.

edd

Is there a charge for attending the conference and setting in on the Bitcoin Talks? What the hell did I just write? Bitcoin Talks. Hmmm! First annual Bitcoin Talks, featuring speakers versed in all things Bitcoin???

There will be no charge for attending the talks or exhibits; entrance to the convention center will be absolutely free. I am counting on exhibitors, sponsors, donations, and merchandise sales to cover expenses. I'd like this event to be an introduction to bitcoin for San Antonio and Austin and I plan on doing my best to saturate the area with advertisements in the days leading up to it. So remember, sponsors - the bigger your contribution, the bigger your presence!

By the way, I've updated the list above to reflect the newest exhibitor and sponsor, Cryptoanarchy.com!

I'm going to make it a point to attend.

edd, I suggest you give Ron Paul a shot on his campaign site for being a speaker. Try to sell him on Bitcoin. I would but it has a preference for event owners.

I'll update the list!


Guess it can't hurt to ask.

Would anyone object to an individual paying fees to the convention and setting up a booth to promote voting for US presidential hopeful Ron Paul? I was also hoping to get a speaker to talk about the importance of ensuring government keeps its hands off the Internet and Bitcoins as a competing currency. Paul's come out in favor of competing currency, ending the Federal Reserve system mucking up the USD, and supports Internet anonymity (going so far as to support Wikileaks while most other politicians were seeking to execute Manning & Assange).

I think it's very reasonable not to want to skew the convention as supporting a political candidate, but I'm sure there will be enough sponsors there to not give off that impression. Again, if there is strong objection in the community toward either having a speaker there promoting Ron Paul, or even a booth, I will not book a spot - but if you guys are comfortable with it, I'd love to send a person or two over to talk about him and pass out literature.

Okay, people, I'm still working on the final program and don't want to make any announcements without having firm commitments from speakers but it's finally coming together.  :D

But the main reason for this post is that I received a few nervous calls and emails from the hotels I've booked. It seems that no one has made a reservation yet!

I explained that attendees of the Prague conference didn't register until the last minute, but I'm afraid that did little to assuage their concerns. As mentioned on the website (http://www.bitcoinconvention2012.com/), these rooms will only be held until February 17th, however, if no reservation is made soon and the hotels feel that we will not use them, I must give them the opportunity to sell them elsewhere. This will be a very busy time in San Antonio, after all.

If you're on the fence, here are some other reasons to take a vacation to San Antonio over St. Patrick's Day weekend:

• Murphy’s St. Patrick’s Day River Parade & Festival (http://www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com/events/murphys-st.-patricks-day-river-parade-festival/) (free)
• SeaWorld San Antonio (http://seaworldparks.com/en/seaworld-sanantonio/Attractions) (the largest SeaWorld park there is!)
• Some great golf courses (http://neighborhood.golfclub.com/Golf_Courses_San_Antonio_TX-p1544969-San_Antonio_TX.html)
• Six Flags Fiesta Texas (http://www.sixflags.com/fiestatexas/index.aspx) theme park
• Shopping (http://www.theshopsatlacantera.com/)
• The San Antonio Riverwalk (http://www.visitsanantonio.com/visitors/play/the-river-walk/explore-the-san-antonio-river-walk/index.aspx) (historical with plenty of dining and shopping opportunities)
• SXSW events going on in Austin (http://sxsw.com/schedule), only an hour away
• And, of course, there's the Alamo (http://www.thealamo.org/visitors/overview.php).

So please start making your travel plans and book your room before it's too late.

I, for one, see that you're doing your best to make this endeavor a go. Since the date is fast approaching, I suggest you continue to bump this thread, adding as much info as possible daily. Keep sticking it in our face, so to speak. Slowly, but surely, users will come on board. I envision at least a couple cabbies providing their services via accepting Bitcoin, if that helps any. At the risk of being funny, Atlas could redeem himself if somehow he was able to get some bar or restaurant on board into accepting Bitcoin, for he lives in the neighborhood--Texas.

I'm sure the results of this convention would rival the NYC one, but the recent Prague Convention has set a nice bar to reach.

~Bruno~

I am planning on attending.  Should be fun.  Just a hop skip and a jump from Colorado.

So you're the snow hog!

Wow, that's quite a list of activities. SXSW alone is worth the trip.

Yeah, there's plenty of reasons why this is a great convention town, especially in the spring.  :D

What's the expected date of this con?

I plan on going, setting up a booth, and dancing on it.

No actually I might be bringing a new invention of ours from DCAO initiatives, something that will blow your Texan gallon hats off (which isn't too hard given the wind resistance they create).

How much is a booth again?

The booth is cheap. I already have one for Hand Tooled Leather Wallets.

This is going to be the best Bitcoin convention ever! Why? For the live show:

ATLAS meets MATTHEW

I'm surprised you think his electric dog collar force field would go that far.

I'll look up the prices for a table. I'm trying to get some of my crew to go too but flying out of Korea myself is going to be hard enough on 2 months notice.

March 17-18, St. Patrick's Day weekend. Exhibit table is 12 BTC and a hotel room in our block is $195 - $199 a night, depending on which hotel you choose.

http://www.bitcoinconvention2012.com/

I had intended to go, but had some stuff come up.  I'd still really like to, but I'm not sure if I'll be able to.

I should know for sure before too long.

I have made my travel arrangements!  Looking forward to it. 

Hey,

The sites down, any update on this?

I'd like to attend and possibly be a speaker or get a booth

Charlie

If you get to be a speaker, I want to be a microphone, so that I can blow you. </gay>

I'd be speaker to your microphone any day Matt </gayer>

Can I get in on some this action, or is this only for an upcoming show?

I am probably attending.

Yes, I'm afraid there's some bad news. As you may know, BTCinch is shutting down and they were partnering with this endeavor.  I'll be updating the site with a new payment processor soon, as well as with some new information regarding hotels and venue. You see, the hotels I blocked rooms at did not receive a single reservation and I can't afford to pay for the minimum number of required room nights out of my own pocket, so I relinquished the hold on the rooms and the Group Rate will no longer available. Feel free to make your reservations at any hotel/motel you wish, but there will be no discount for attendees of the Bitcoin Convention unless someone with deep pockets steps forward to pre-pay for some rooms.

Speaking of deep pockets, I have more bad news. The company that originally agreed to front some of the money for the deposit at the Convention Center (not BTCinch) has not responded to any of my PM's or emails in weeks. Consequently, I've also released the hold on the exhibit space at the Convention Center. If you'll recall, they were holding much more square footage than we could possibly use with the understanding that we would only be charged for used space and that the deposit was due upon signing the contract and would be non-refundable. Of course, this is another expense I couldn't afford to cover without help.

But all is not lost! I've got some contacts at another hotel across the street from the Convention Center and they have space available to accomodate up to 45 exhibit tables that weekend. This arrangement would be more straightforward: $6,000 USD is necessary up front to book the space and if we outgrow it, we can always negotiate for more. What I need now, is a sponsor willing to come forward and front the money for this space, to be paid back with income from exhibitors in exchange for becoming the savior of the March 2012 Bitcoin Convention. There is no need to send any money to me, simply give me your word you'll pay it to the hotel and I'll work on the contract and put you in touch with the billing department.

If, for some reason this event doesn't happen, I'll refund every single BTC sent to me. (There haven't been many, which is why I'm finding myself in this predicament.)

wow.   I am fully booked non-refundable for the entire event.

I was super excited to attend this event as well.

I still plan on doing everything in my power to make this thing happen. If you'd like to help, please reply here or PM me.

If the event is gonna happen, and there is a good turnout that makes it worth it for me to fly out, Id be glad to be a sponsor and/or speaker.

I live in Austin and will definitely be attending.

Thanks to everyone who has PMed and emailed me with your suggestions and concerns about this event. The moral support from the community has been overwhelming, however, the monetary support is still lacking.

I'm in contact with several community members and possible sponsors who have expressed interest in helping secure the venue I have in mind (still downtown and centrally located) but they need to see how many of you will be attending. Please reply here with your intentions and feel free to include any caveats you feel necessary.


Thanks, Dustin! The list has been updated and your sponsorship is also greatly appreciated!

I tentatively plan on attending, barring any unforseen circumstances.

Is this the only place the BitCon advertisement exists?

Until I have more definite and confirmed details (venue has definitely changed and dates probably will, too), I've removed most of the advertising I had out there. There are still a couple of threads about it, however.

I just find it curious that there seems to be such apathy regarding Bitcoin in the USA. There aren't even any meetups in Texas, a state with 20M population. Maybe we should have it in Columbia, there might be more interest there.  ;)

All it would take is to interest one mover-and-shaker in Texas (Austin) into embracing Bitcoin, and you're golden. I've lived in Houston for four years, and I'll tell you that Texans will give most anybody or anything a shot--at least once--but don't mess with Texans, for there's no second chance.

~Bruno~

Honestly, if you're going to have a convention in Texas, Austin or Dallas make far better choices than San Antonio.  Still, as long as it's in Texas I'll likely be there.

Any update on this?

Every hotel I've spoken to expects to be sold out over that weekend so I'm now looking into alternate dates.

I agree. Just get a few dozen people in a room together and let's make the magic happen!

I can definitely do that. Finding a venue won't be difficult, especially if the turnout is as small as only a few dozen. Anyone else care to chime in with their opinion? Should I keep the dates and just accept the fact that many bitcoiners won't be able to find rooms?

I've never been to San Antonio, but Im assuming any venue you do it at will be in the city within proximity to hotels.

At those dates, I dont think I could make it.

 

Yes, there are plenty of available venues in the heart of downtown.

Ed I would strongly suggest establishing a bitcoin presence at this event, rather than trying to make your own from stratch.

http://sxsw.com/trade_shows/about (http://sxsw.com/trade_shows/about)

It is much more effective to bring 20 bitcoiners to an event like this, with thousands of other people around to talk to, than just have the 20 bitcoiners in a separate event talking amongst themselves.

Unfortunately, the trade show is sold out. I'll get in touch with dustintrammell and see about maybe meeting up there. Anyone know any of the exhibitors (http://sxsw.com/trade_shows/exhibitors) who might let us horn in on their stand?

(SXSW indie bands) * Bitcoin = $$$

Great, if its earlier in the week (Mar 12-14) I might be able to get there from Florida as well.  Just can't do that weekend.

I just checked out the prices and even just registering for the Interactive Event is now $850, which is out of my price range, so there goes trying to crash the exhibits with an informal presence, at least on my end.

Me too. I cant do the 14th-24th.

Anytime before or after is fine.

bump

Looks like it will still be happening on the original dates, but probably on a smaller scale, unless someone thinks of a good (cheap) way of promoting it at SXSW.

Just show up in Austin during SXSW. There's no need to spend money on the admission badges to their show.  There are plenty of free opportunities around town for bitcoiners to meetup, and talk with thousands of other people in town.

I am planning to be in Austin for the first few days of SXSW, probably Tuesday-Wednesday.

http://bitbrew.net/imgs/prof-farnsworth.jpgGood news, everyone!

I've finally found a venue for this event: the Hilton Palacio del Rio (http://www1.hilton.com/en_US/hi/hotel/SATPDHF-Hilton-Palacio-del-Rio-Texas/index.do), located directly across the Convention Center in downtown San Antonio on the Riverwalk.

We'll be located in the Salon del Rey Ballroom on the Mezzanine level of the hotel. The best part is, they've given me a great rate for the space so the funds I've collected from exhibitors and sponsors already have it covered. In addition, there's room to grow, if necessary.

Rooms are already scarce, however. If you plan on attending and have been putting off making a reservation, I suggest you make one now.

I'm off to update the site with this information, just wanted to let any of you monitoring this thread know that this will, indeed, be happening.

Start advertising this. If anybody needs a ride in the Austin area, PM me.

Speaking of advertising...


Anyone else going to be in Austin during SXSW? I'm thinking we could have some flyers printed up to distribute...tactfully, of course.

Littleshop told me this conf is happening but dont see any info here.

Whats the update?

I'm curious as well... I'll be in San Antonio that weekend, so I'd like to come visit!

Here's what we got so far:

When: March 17 & 18, 2012
          8am - 5pm both days
Exhibitors may set up one to two hours early.

Where: Hilton Palacio del Rio - Downtown San Antonio
           North Section of the Salon del Rey Ballroom - Mezzanine Level

Map: http://bitbrew.net/imgs/hiltonmap.jpg


Exhibit space will be 1653 square feet but there is room to grow. (See highlighted area.)
http://bitbrew.net/imgs/hpdrsdrn.jpg

The Hilton is also located right on the Riverwalk. I found plenty of images that were obviously "tweaked" to emphasize the presence of the building but it really is literally just a few steps from the water. Here's a good image that gives an honest look at its proximity (the arrow is pointing to the Hilton, obviously):
http://bitbrew.net/imgs/riverwalk&hilton.jpg


Littleshop and I are putting together a bag to hand out to visitors with gifts from bitcoin businesses. Anyone who would like to have their product included or their name displayed on the bag, please contact Littleshop or me.

I'm still working on getting wireless internet for the room and all attendees.

Parking is going to be your biggest hurdle. This will be St. Patrick's Day weekend and the entire downtown area will be bustling with activity and parking prices will most likely be higher than normal. The Hilton does have a parking garage but they are anticipating to be sold out and may not have any space available for non-guests. In any case, parking at the Hilton isn't free and you would probably save a few dollars by finding a spot somewhere else and walking a block or two. Exhibitors will be able to unload at the front drive, but don't expect to be allowed to park there for more than 30 minutes.

Just about every potential speaker and presenter has been waiting for me to confirm that this event was actually going to occur, so unfortunately, I don't have a program put together yet. Anyone who is interested in speaking, please don't hesitate to contact me.

I would still like to meet up with anyone who will be in Austin for SXSW during the week prior to this. Please PM me if you are going to be there.

Any other questions?

All I can say is that I am excited.

I can now confirm that ceptacle.com (http://ceptacle.com/) will be conducting a tutorial on how to code and build new tools for bitcoin using libcoin at the Convention, Saturday afternoon, March 17.

Great! Think I should be able to make it.

I'll need to figure out a way to get from SF to Texas + a place to stay.

I am planning on coming.

If you can find a room within walking distance, and if you can afford it, I highly recommend it. As I mentioned above, parking will be the biggest issue, I fear.

I'll be showing FreeMoney around my fair city during his stay and I'd be happy to play tour guide for anyone else who plans on arriving before or staying after the event.

edd,

i know you worked hard on this and it may not have turned out as big as you wanted it but thank you and keep up the good work.

It has definitely been a roller coaster ride of emotions the last couple of months! From the intital excitement and potential sponsors' extravagant promises, to the waning interest and non-communication from the same potential sponsors; a resurgence of support and funds...that was unfortunately very short-lived and not enough to secure the convention center space along with the lack of rooms reserved at my preferred hotels; and then finally locating what was probably the best size venue for this event all along and the shedding of the apparent procrastination that is indicative of bitcoiners.

I can tell you that I wouldn't wish this on anyone, but I'd do it again in a heartbeat for the good of Bitcoin and its community.

i do think it came too soon on the heals of the European and NY conferences. :'(

+1 edd.  you've always been generous (hehe). thank you for your contribution to the community :)

Thanks for the kind words cypherdoc and inau.

In other news: I still need someone to help stream the conference!

This sucks, really mad I can't make it.

I'd still love to help in anyway I can.

Would you consider giving your presentation via Skype?

100% Can you PM me more details, and how this would work?

Also, I sent littleshop a PM about doing some of the gift bags. We have some merch and if not, can make it

Charlie

I'd really like to justify attending, but it's hard to justify the cost if it's just a bunch of people sitting around a table chatting. 

What's the expected turn out?

Any news outlets lined up for the event?

Really hard to say. About a dozen have mentioned here that they will and 41 have indicated they will on the poll at the website. We might get a handful of curious locals but I'm really counting on getting a lot of people at SXSW interested.


I will soon be spamming every one who might possibly attend.

The bags are being printed and I should have them next week, ready to fill with stuff!

And in the next few days, I should have stuff from sponsors!

I was just in the Hilton a few weeks ago for a company event. Our daytime meetings were in the same room as you will be. This is a great place to hold this event.

LOL in what context is the question. We'll leave that open for interpretation of the readers.  ;D

It's not too late for sponsors to get on board and have your logo displayed prominently at this event.

Current sponsors are:

http://bitbrew.net/imgs/bb2.pnghttp://www.bitcoinconvention2012.com/imgs/sealswithclubs-180x85.jpghttp://www.bitcoinconvention2012.com/imgs/crypto-anarchylogo.png
http://www.bitcoinconvention2012.com/imgs/FreeDigitalMoneySponsor.pnghttp://www.bitcoinconvention2012.com/imgs/btctradingbanner250x150.png
http://www.bitcoinconvention2012.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Bees-Brothers-Logo-300x258.jpg

And I still need help streaming this thing!

We are donating little packages of Honey Caramels to be included in each of the Convention's Welcome Packages (trying to make it a sweeter deal for everyone in attendance to be a supporter).

Tonight and tomorrow are blocked out to get the caramels made and packaged to be shipped on Monday.

I'm IN! And FUCK TSA, I'm riding my motorcycle all the way from Las Vegas! It's going to take me 2 days to get there but I want to take in all the scenery along the way.

My RSVP still stands. I will be there. I can't wait to meet you gentlemen.

HAHAHA I just paid for my hotel rooms with Bitcoin! (friend paid with his credit card, I paid him Bitcoins)

nice!

I'll be in Corpus Christi this week. I may run over there for a day.

You better be there.

Awesome, booked accommodation and flight.

See you guys there in a couple of days!

I can't make this one since I'm going to The Phoenix Forum at the end of March :(

If anyone wants to buy or sell BTC in person, I will do so in limited quantities at the convention at mtgox rate plus 2% fee.  If you have a need PM me.

Is there a schedule of events?

Exhibits will be open from 8am-5pm Saturday and Sunday. I didn't get nearly as many speakers as I had hoped, but they will be presenting between 11am and 1pm both days.

I'll be at the Guadalajara Grill (http://www.guadalajaragrill.us/contact%20page.html) this afternoon if anyone in San Antonio wants to meet up before the conference tomorrow. PM me for my contact info.

I made the mistake of not booking a hotel.

I wish I could go but it's difficult trying to justify a one day trip and back for my family and I. I am getting my license next week. Not the best timing. : \

Anyways, I hope all of you have a great time. I can't wait to hear (or see) what happens.

The streaming address:

http://cryptoanarchy.com/stream/

Check in at noon!

http://www.reddit.com/r/Bitcoin/comments/r0ulw/live_stream_of_the_2012_bitcoin_conference_in_san/

Reddit'd

Any ETA on the stream?

We will be on at 2pm central, 3pm EST or in about 50 minutes. 

Can you guys release a full video afterwards so we can watch it non-streaming?

If I hadn't just found out this was happening, I would already be there! It's not often that such a cool event happens in San Antonio. I'll probably show up tomorrow.

As long as ustream works as advertised, yes!  I will save the video to my channel. 

Hey guys.  Just wanted to say thanks for putting on the convention.  Good discussions and it was nice to put some names to faces.

Thanks for coming by Michael. Too bad you missed yesterday. It was good, too.

The March Conference is finally over and I can confidently say that, even though I'm disappointed by the number of individuals who did not show up despite their RSVP indicating they would, in many ways, this event was a smashing success.

While it is true that the turnout was not even close to either the New York Expo or the Prague event, those who expressed their opinion to me felt it was a positive effort toward enriching Bitcoin and just about everyone volunteered to help organize and promote an event for next year if I choose to try this again.

Due to the more "intimate" nature of the group, most discussions were held on an informal basis, which is why Libcoin (http://web.me.com/gronager/Ceptacle/Home.html) was the only presentation streamed and recorded. Off the top of my head, I recall some good discussions on LiteCoin, the Bitcointalk Forum and its influence on Bitcoin, an acceptable definition of Bitcoin, hawala (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hawala), the upcoming drop in the Block Reward, and of course, ASICs, botnets, and The Mystery Miner.

I have quite a few goody bags left, as well. I'll be happy to send these out to anyone interested and only charge for shipping. If you would like me to include an official March 2012 Bitcoin Conference t-shirt (S, M, L, or XL), the cost will be 2 BTC plus shipping.

In all honesty, while I am glad the event was held in San Antonio for personal reasons, next year, the effort would be better placed in Austin, only a few miles up the road.  The culture there is radically different than San Antonio, and a few well placed stickers, fliers, and phone calls would do wonders on the UT campus alone.  For something as esoteric as Bitcoin, getting even a couple people to attend has to be considered a success, but for the critical mass you're looking for, a single day event Austin is where its at.

That's pretty much the same conclusion I came to. I'll be the first to admit, one of the reasons I chose San Antonio was for my own convenience since I knew I would be taking care of this singlehandedly while also juggling my job, my family, and my numerous bitcoin projects. Next year, Austin is definitely more likely to be the location over SA.

Now if only I can get a sponsor to pay for a booth at SXSW...

Edd,

Sorry you didn't have the turnout you anticipated, but thanks for your efforts in putting this all together.

Can someone give some highlights or summaries of the topics discussed?

Any effort is better than no effort at all, and my advice is to always assume that no one is showing up, so you can be pleasantly surprised by even minor "success". Wish I could have gone, it was so close to me, but yet so very far away.

next year will be bigger and better for sure. up and up! gl high five at pulling it off

I intended to go. I had a lame excuse and shoulda known better. Maybe next year I won't be single and will be thinking with my brain instead.

Did atlas show up like he promised to?

No, he posted under his new alias saying he wasn't:

Thanks Edd for putting on the conference!

Really enjoyed it- good chats, nice (warm) location, and definitely got some great ideas from chatting with you and the others (freemoney, libcoin, littleshop, etc).

Was also good to show of my (incomplete) BPS as well. It worked really well, and I just have to add some final touches to have a minimal-viable-product.

~Mat

I think he's outlined the issues discussed here:


So if I want a shirt, how much is shipping to Cleveland, Ohio?  I'll PM you my address. 

I'd say I'm interested and I'm guessing you're losing money on the shirts which is why you need to charge $10?  What does the shirt look like?  Does is have the logo in your signature Bit CON 2012 banner?  I'm a little worried about wearing a shirt that says Bit CON given the negative connotation, haha.  However, I don't have any bitcoin t-shirts yet and this could be my first.

Can you send me a BTC address to pay you for the shiping/t-shirt?  I'll see if I can help stop the bleeding on your wallet :)

Circle jerk is circle jerk. I don't know what this 'Con' was supposed to accomplish. I am glad everyone got to meet though, I love meeting internet people and making sure they're not robot assassins.

Next time someone in the community wants to organize some kind of conferences or conventions, stop pretending doing it alone is somehow better. The wheel already exists. Use other people in the community. Flying by on the heels of "novelty" doesn't work anymore, we've already proven that most of the these conferences and such could just be held online with a conference call streamed etc.

A+ for effort though.

F- for Atlas/Boss/Immanuel Go/Ragnar/Jon never keeping his word on anything.

If I had a car, I would of come. ;_;

I wasn't ballsy enough to take the van and cite common law as my driver's license.

Well that's a sign of the apsergers wearing off. Good on you.

You could have taken a greyhound bus though.

EDIT: For the record, the reason I didn't go is because it would have cost $1,100 to fly there from South Korea just to hang out with some dudes and discuss things that could have been discussed over a Skype group call.

For those just tuning in and thinking that starting a convention or conference is a good idea, try to remember that you need to back it off of a release party. Even the Prague conference was not a smashing hit because there was too much ranting about copyrights and not enough actual tech released there. There needs to be something interesting happening that can't be accessed elsewhere. Meeting nerds is not sufficiently interesting enough imo.

Now if Atlas and I had both gone, that's different. I'm sure plenty of people would have joined just to see us make out.

Damn right.

I could have charged admission and made a fortune!

In San Antonio? Maybe try Pattaya next time.

Then only gay Bruce wannabees will show up.

I think that's what he was implying.  ;)

I figured you guys would put on a better show.

I'm certain even forum members that wouldn't normally be interested in gay make-out scenes would pay to be there if that ever happened.




(Those who are normally interested in gay make-out scenes probably wouldn't be any more.  ;))

Agreed.

Two obnoxious skinny tall guys making out is hardly attractive to anyone.

Unless we dyed our hair, got a single lip stud, wore tight jeans and called ourselves "scene" in which case EVERYONE LOVES US.

Crap, I should stop giving Bruce ideas.



Haha just kidding, he'd never fit into skinny jeans.

Due to popular demand, I'm posting images of the Bitcoin Conference t-shirts I still have (S, M, L, XL):

Front:

http://www.bitcoinconvention2012.com/imgs/bitconblack-front.jpg

Back:

http://www.bitcoinconvention2012.com/imgs/bitconblack-back.jpg

It's hard to read in these images, but the second line says "March 2012."

I also still have plenty of goodie bags with other stuff you can have for only the cost of shipping. Adding a shirt increases the cost by 2 BTC.

I'll take one goody bag to Korea if you don't mind filling out the customs form for it and finding out what shipping would be.

I'll also take a toad fish in your avatar.

I don't mind filling out the forms but it looks like I'll need a postal code to get a quote.



Would you like some kimchi to go with that?

Meeting with other fellow nerds is one of the great highlights of my year!

Ordered 2 mediums!  Leaving for Mexico this morning in half hour.  May not have internet for a week. 

Looking forward to my bit con shirts!

We'll see if I can spread bitcoins to Mexico!

Talk to everyone in a week.

I just finished packing your shirts and other goodies and will ship them out today.

Everyone else, I still have plenty of shirts, candy, buttons, stickers, etc.

I'll buy the candy.  How much do you have to sell and how many BTC do you want for it?

Well, I'm giving some away in the goodie bags, but the Bees Brothers did sell me additional that I was going to use with some BitBrew deals. I'm sending you a PM.

We are interested in a few of the items.  But you keep the honey caramels, we just made a bunch today for a big order.

Sending you a PM.

Thanks so much for my box of goodies!  I've love em!  I can't wait to pass out buttons & stickers to anyone who wants them, too!

I'll let you know if I need anymore.

You're welcome, kjlimo. Thanks for the thread bump!

What about planning a Bitcoin Convention around DragonCon in ATL? Are there Bitcoiners in Atlanta?

I'm sure there are. Looks like that would be a lot of fun to attend. I'll check out prices for tables and maybe some of us can meet up there to run a bitcoin booth.