As an organization we normally have a blanket comment policy for staff regarding feedback to inquiries. Each inquiry sent directly to Dotcon’s email list is answered as soon as possible by one of our staff. At all times we welcome both positive and negative feedback as it provides a gauge on the strengths of the event and the areas where we can change the event in order to improve the overall Dotcon experience. We visit websites frequented by convention attendees in order to gather feedback as often as we possibly can.

     We have noted numerous posts online with information that is incorrect. We feel we need to formally respond to the false claims pertaining to the size of our convention, the process for attaining guests, our charity affiliation, and the inaccurate claim that we inflate the numbers of attendees. We have provided the information below to ensure convention attendees can view the truth about the past and present of Dotcon events.

Number of Attendees

     Dotcon attendance for both 2008 and 2009 was based on passes sold over the course of two days and pre-registration. During and after each convention we kept count of the numbers of attendees at both events. We have maintained records and recounted the registration papers that were completed by each person who attended the convention. As other organizers of conventions will tell you, we are unable to post or provide the information that was completed due to privacy laws. For more information about privacy laws in Ontario, please search for Ontario privacy laws online.

     As you may already know, 2008 was our inaugural year. We had an attendance of approximately 1200 people. We were honored and privileged to have a talented group of guests. More information as well as pictures of the guests that attended the 2008 convention can be found at www.dot-con.com. Before the Dotcon 2008 we had a change in venue due to circumstances that were beyond our control. The guests, who we could never thank enough, took all of this in stride and still attended the convention. The staff and sponsors put measures into place to ensure Dotcon attendees could still attend the regardless of this change. We noted feedback from our attendees after 2008 and integrated ideas into planning for the 2009 event.

     In 2009 after reviewing the first convention, and utilizing the feedback we received, the staff and volunteers were able to invite guests from both Japan and North America. The attendance for Dotcon 2009 was approximately 500 people. At no time have we tried to mislead anyone about our attendance, and have never officially posted our numbers until now. Any other sources of attendance information are more than likely the result of a keystroke error and should be considered inaccurate.

     This year Dotcon has invited several guests for attendees to meet and greet. In response to feedback from our previous years, we have found a new location that is easily accessible by highway and TTC. For our November 2010 event we have an exciting group of guests that we are sure people will be interested in seeing. For those who are dedicated and wish to apply for a staff position, run a panel, or volunteer, please email info@dot-con.com. Be sure to make Staff Position the subject line of your email or your staffing request may get overlooked.

Charity Aspect

     In 2008 we made the decision to search for charity to assist with our convention. We are adamant about giving back to those who need it in anyway we can. The directors decided to support Second Harvest due to its reputation as a charity that makes a direct impact to the families who need it in our local area. We have accepted donations, by having food drives at our annual events (discount on door price for a canned food item), organized charity auctions. Second Harvest has also attended the convention to provide information to anyone interested. They have always accepted our donations and we are fortunate to be involved with such a great charity. Please visit the Second Harvest website at www.secondharvest.ca for further information. Dotcon is listed under community events. They are truly a wonderful charity that could use your help. We would not be able to post that we are affiliated with Second Harvest without their consent so we are proud to, in our small way, provide donations and will continue to do so in the future.

Convention Pricing

     The prices are set to help pay for the venue, equipment, other fees and incidentals. Dotcon staff are all volunteers and do not profit from the convention. We are dedicated fans of all aspects of Japanese culture and we strive to create a unique experience for fans to enjoy.

     We have made changes to scheduled programming, potential guests and venue space in order to provide a lower rate for Dotcon attendees. Our scheduled guests, who again we can never thank enough, are still attending despite the changes. Please see the www.dot-con.com for the new registration pricing.

     Dotcon staff would like to take this opportunity to once again thank anyone who has continually supported us these past couple of years. To our dedicated staff members, volunteers, vendors, sponsors, affiliates, and convention attendees – we thank you greatly. Once again, if you have concerns, whether constructive or otherwise please contact us at feedback@dot-con.com.

     See you all at the convention!

Dotcon Staff

     Luzmelt will be at Dotcon 2010!! Along with appearances, they will also be performing! Check their page for more info.

     Eric Vale will be at Dotcon 2010!! Check his page for more info.

     Wendy Powell is back at Dotcon for a second year…and we couldn\’t be happier!! Check her page for more info.