I agree J. Todd that we need to stick together unite. I also totally agree that we need to have industry events that are well managed and attended. In fact, this community is extremely close compared to the other industries in which we participate.
However, if the major concern is losing an event that is co-ordinated by someone who does not even participate in this industry. I think Marc made his position quite clear on this forum and further supported by his communications at CAC. He is biting the hand that feeds him and that cannot go unpunished. There are numerous people who are at potential personal risk by participated in a US-based event – and frankly it is not worth attending such an event until these matters sort themselves out. You of all people should agree with me on that point.
A number of financial supporters are VERY unhappy with the position taken by the event organizer who was not supportive at all during this precarious times. Just read back in this thread and you will see some historical heavy supporters of this conference that are in this position.
Maybe its time for someone in the industry to step-up and run a conference for the good of the industry – instead of a cash grab the way it is currently looking. I enjoyed my time at CAC but it was mainly because of meeting the industry players, trade fair and social events – it certainly was not for the interesting and well prepared topics in the seminars and forums.
How about some more indepth topics related to what you see in the CAP forums….such as SEO, linkbuilding, site design, partner negotiation, or how about sessions for affiliates to review programs – likes & dislikes, etc. I don’t mean to get off-topic in this thread – I just think that CAC is a great event because of this community not because of the organizer.
Just my two cents – someone from the industry would have been WAY more sympathetic to some of the risks the heavy hitters potentially face by currently travelling to the USA, calling them “little boys” and “gutless” certainly is not appropriate and shows the true class and character of the individual.