Thread updated for Dragon*Con 2017.
Dragon*Con Colony Sweep coordinators: Sean Maio, Tony Bassi
Marines, here's the SITREP: This thread is for all feedback, questions, and concerns regarding Colony Sweep planning. In order to keep us from cluttering up other threads (the 2013 Pics and Video thread especially), please use this thread and this thread only for discussing centering around the Dragon*Con Colony Sweep. I will update this first post periodically to keep us on the same page.
As we all know, the crowds are making it harder every year to organize and run the Sweep. It is absolutely critical for that reason that everyone involved be familiar with - and
follow - the plan. "Squad Leaders" especially need to be involved in the planning process and dry run; we've had to adapt the plan on the fly before due to crowds, and I won't be surprised if we have to again.
On that topic: Due to security concerns in the wake of the recent Phoenix Colony Incident, the Colony Sweep will be organized as a
photo shoot ONLY this year. Yeah, I know, this may disappoint some of you, but it's necessary. We will revisit the possibility of some live-action elements next year, but for 2017, it's going to be posed photos only.
On the up-side, though, this gives the camerapeople more control over the shots they get, and more time to get them. This means everyone involved should get more time in the spotlight regardless of where they are in the formation. That's a win in my book.
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Dragon*Con Colony Sweep Rules and RegulationsAlright, people, listen up! The Colony Sweep is a big deal, Marines, a
big damn deal, so in order to keep everyone on the same page, we're gonna be implementing some new rules. Don't like it?
Too bad. We kept it niiiiice and simple, so even you Grunts can keep up!
RULE #1: All costumes and props used in the Colony Sweep must pass the "Plausibility Test". No, we are not saying everything must be "screen accurate"; EU material is welcome, but costumes and gear should at least be
plausible in-universe. We're re-enacting a franchise, people, and we draw a big audience every year... so if it breaks the "4th Wall," do us a favor and leave it on the ship. Note: this does not apply to armor graffiti, or other less-than-obvious details. Use your common sense, and if in doubt, ask.
RULE #2: Stay aware of your surroundings! I cannot stress this enough. It's going to be
crowded. The audience we will draw will make it
more so. There's going to be excited onlookers following us - "holy crap, it's ALIENS! Game over, man!" - and there's also going to be bystanders who have no idea why this crowd of G.I. Joes is suddenly in their way. Above all else, remember that the people going about their business in the hotel (con-goers or otherwise) have
more right to be there than we do. Under no circumstances are you to be "That Guy" (or Gal).
If it comes down to a choice between stepping on someone's toes, or stepping out of character for a moment in order to
avoid doing so, always choose the latter.
Questions, comments, or concerns? Take it up with Corporal Maio, man. I just work here.
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WATER BEARERS NEEDED. Water is always sorely needed at the end of the sweep, and often has to be retrieved from the Westin lobby bar. Even if you are not participating directly in the Sweep itself, please consider bringing water bottles, a CamelBak, etc. for those who will most definitely need it.
2017 SWEEP LOCATION: Westin Downtown Atlanta
2017 SWEEP TIME: Meetup at 3:30 PM EST, Saturday, at the North entrance of the Hyatt.
Please be aware, this time is subject to change if a small delay would mean having another Xeno or two.CURRENT ROUTE: Enter Westin lobby via Eastern curbside entrance, assemble in lobby for brief, sweep upper mezzanine levels, and regroup at lobby. Simple patrol, home in time for supper. What could possibly go wrong?
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CPL Sean Maio A01/TQ2.0.72156E1
Public Relations Division (Temporary Cross-Assignment)
M-56 Smartgun Operator, A/3Btn, II CMEF, USS Sephora