International conference - Diffuser … thoughts and ideas from our readers - Letter to the Editor

PSA Journal, August, 2003 by Keith Vaughan

Once again the PSA annual international conference is scheduled at a time when many PSA members will not be able to attend because of work commitments. Many PSA members are not able to take time off from their work place during the time right after the Labor Day weekend.

In my own situation as a University professor, my classes begin on Wednesday, September 3rd, the same day that the conference starts in Houston. This is not the first time this situation has prevailed; several times I have enlisted the aid of one or more of my colleagues to fill in for me in my classes, but it always creates a catch-up situation that disrupts the flow of learning. Last year, in Pittsburgh, I tried teaching one day and arriving at the conference late, but that was just as problematic for all concerned. So this year, I will miss the Houston conference and I will miss a GREAT program, but I hope that y'all have a great time and maybe I'll see you in 2004!

Editor's Note: The subject of conference dates and venues has been hotly debated for many years. The dates selected for the annual conferences must be contracted years in advance and are set when the hotel rates are reduced after the high summer season (to attract more members) but when photographic opportunities and good weather are still likely. PSA members have suggested college housing, but surveys have shown that most members are unwilling to live in campus housing (in mid-summer) as they indicate a preference for first class hotels. Obviously all members can't be kept happy with the choices made, but the financial advantage is overwhelming.

Keith Vaughan, FPSA

Halifax, Nova Scotia