PTG Needs The Money, Was: Dallas Convention Web Site

[Pianotek2000@aol.com]

Unfortunately, the PTG has come to depend on the National Convention as its 
major income opportunity for the year.  They naturally want to make as much 
money as possible.  It sounds like with most of the major exhibitors not 
coming, (these are the big space users who also contribute in other ways), 
they have to make up the loss.  I think they should just accept a little 
lower profit and not throw the problem on our backs.
John 

In a message dated 3/10/03 8:00:07 PM US Mountain Standard Time, 
brian_trout@hotmail.com writes:

<< Yeah, Phil, that is a large pill to swallow.
 
 On the one hand, I can see the point of trying to "protect" the rich and 
 bountiful PTG resources from easy access by any old "piana tooner" who just 
 wants a free education and has no intention of helping to support the 
 organization.  (I wish I could convey that I'm not saying that with sarcasm 
 in my voice.)
 
 But on the other hand, this price will eliminate some good and decent and 
 poor piano technicians.  Let's face it, we all don't make $100,000 a year.  
 And while we're facing facts, few more than 10% of those who are in the 
 piano business ever will see that level of income (if that many).
 
 I know from personal experience of several other conventions in other fields 
 that I can attend for the cost of showing up that will have very similar 
 teaching/learning events happening (in their particular fields, that is.  
 And don't tell me otherwise 'cause I can name names.)
 
 That being said, I don't know what the real costs are for the PTG 
 convention, i.e. reception halls, meeting rooms, logistics and accounting, 
 etc.  But as the prices are raised, I can assure you that we gradually push 
 away an element of our group that just plain can't afford to lay out $200 or 
 so for annual dues, another $350 for the annual convention, another $350 or 
 so for a room, and another $200 or so for the incidentals, not to mention 
 yet another $200 or $300 or $400 to get there if they don't live close 
 enough to believe that their old car with 175,000 miles on it will make the 
 trip.
 
 You may think I'm exagerating but I believe you may be suprised at the 
 numbers of sincere piano technicians who somehow have wound up in that 
 category who just can't afford it.
 
 Sorry to sound so negative.  I'd love to attend this year.  I may or may not 
 be able to afford it.  But the $349 sure doesn't help.
 
 Best wishes,
 
 Brian T. >>