Re: [Killietalk] Shows - new members

[ccarlile at aol_com]

Claro, Dageti and Makurdi es precious 2 mi. I no expert, just try 2 learn. 
 
 Rob
-----Original Message-----
From: David_Koran at hq02.usace.army.mil
To: killietalk at aka_org
Sent: Mon, 25 Sep 2006 12:17 PM
Subject: [Killietalk] Shows - new members


It is my opinion that we are misapplying what we think is a solution to a
problem that needs more analysis.

Most clubs continue to try and hold an annual all killifish show, basically
putting all of their eggs in one basket.  They also mistakenly believe this
is going to be a vehicle to attract new members.  Think about what you mostly
try to do at your annual event, you look to exchange some information,
usually a talk or two or more, maybe a social function like a meal or banquet
and hopefully an auction of new fish heretofore not found in your area (or
outside visitors bringing in new stuff and buying your stuff!)  In all of
this you have an awful lot of so-called "common killies" which come up for
auction (and not just here but at local club meetings also) and they go for
the proverbial $2 or a buck.  No club out there wants to end it's show and
they gripe that the KEY competitors bring fish and take them home.  So in
light of the hassle and the expense, ask if you really need a show for that
yearly event and maybe less is more, only a handful of regional
shows/mini-conventions.

Say you do attract a novice or interest new killie person to your local show.
They will end up with the common stuff but would probably be turned off when
they see bidding skyrocket for something they thought they would like to
have.

I have said this before but common, easy to breed killies need to be the
interface with new or potential members.  Fish that go for peanuts at club
shows should be in killifish classes at general aquarium shows and then up
for auction.  Not to be demeaning but I think the general view is these fish
are disposable, like Fritos, you'll make more.  While they might also be in
your local shops, at a general event you will have a bigger audience and
those whose LFS's don't carry killies may be opened up to a whole new world.
Consider also that at a club event you talk with friends and even if you plan
on speaking with newbies you always get drawn back to old acquaintances.  If
your goal is gaining new members, then make a focused effort at a general
show.  Piggyback on their advertising, facility arrangements and equipment.
You will have a facility usually with high foot traffic, not some out of the
way hotel or private facility that people need a homing beacon to find.
Yeah, it might be like manning a booth at garlic festival but if someone
wants to talk killies then they have your undivided attention.  All of those
chocolate and gold australe, lineatus, striatums and gardneri's look like
jorgenscheeli if you are unfamiliar with killies.

And for that yearly local event, make it a two day event without the tanks,
stands and trophies.  Since you have trouble finding certified judges as
well, your stress level is definitely lower.  Your equipment requirement is a
screen and projector and a means to tally the auction, no moving and aging
water, no tank covers and desperately netting fish prior to the auction.

Fire away,

Dave K

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