Who?
Well, first off me! Of course. Along with about 45 other judges. A good mix of levels was represented including a few uncertified folks, many L1s and L2s and at least 5 L3s. Compared to many other conferences I’ve attended where that top tier is scarce, it felt nice to have the voice of experience available and their comments on many presentations offered a rich layer of insights. While there was no formal check in, organizers Stephan Classen and Richard Neal welcomed folks as they arrived.
What?
Well, a judge conference of course. This one featured one track of presentations which varied in length from 30 to 60 minutes. The times really worked well allowing each presenter to cover their topic without artificially stretching or shrinking it. The shorter presentations felt like a little bite-sized chunk of information and that’s something that I want to try incorporating into future conferences. Joe Klopchic opened the presentations with a rundown of layers followed by three interesting scenarios. (I’m excited to use this aterial with my aspiring L2s group.) Derek Barbee and Jeremy Button followed with talks on Making Mistakes and TO Interactions Respectively. These two quick-hit topics added value especially for newer judges. After the lunch break Ken Nichols talked about Take-Backs before I gave my Diversity presentation. Michael Arrowsmith wrapped up with Customer Service then we had a few minutes to get to know new folks in discussion groups. A provided URL offered an opportunity to submit real-time feedback as well.
When?
Saturday, January 14 from 11am to 5pm. The day included six presentations, a catered lunch, and a group discussion. The varied schedule allowed for some social time as well as the formal presentations and testing took place during some sessions. A conference felt like a good way to start 2019 with clear goals and some fresh ideas.
Where?
Mox Boardinghouse in Bellevue, Washington. The tournament room featured black lacquered tables and chairs set in a classic dark paneled room with rich curtains adorning the walls. While the room is set up for streaming Magic, that feature was not utilized for the conference. The on-site restaurant provided lunch which consisted of sliders, macaroni, soup, salad, and a selection of beverages. Ample space outside the room allowed for testing and mentorship meetings to take place during some of the sessions.
Why?
Why would I choose to fly halfway across the country to attend a conference? Well, Seattle is home to various members of my family as well as many judge mentors and friends. Its welcoming community and an opportunity to share a fun presentation enticed me to make the trip. I’m sure glad I did - I learned a lot, met with a mentor, and strengthened relationships while meeting new folks, enjoying Mox’s hospitality, and enjoying the judge community.
Well, first off me! Of course. Along with about 45 other judges. A good mix of levels was represented including a few uncertified folks, many L1s and L2s and at least 5 L3s. Compared to many other conferences I’ve attended where that top tier is scarce, it felt nice to have the voice of experience available and their comments on many presentations offered a rich layer of insights. While there was no formal check in, organizers Stephan Classen and Richard Neal welcomed folks as they arrived.
What?
Well, a judge conference of course. This one featured one track of presentations which varied in length from 30 to 60 minutes. The times really worked well allowing each presenter to cover their topic without artificially stretching or shrinking it. The shorter presentations felt like a little bite-sized chunk of information and that’s something that I want to try incorporating into future conferences. Joe Klopchic opened the presentations with a rundown of layers followed by three interesting scenarios. (I’m excited to use this aterial with my aspiring L2s group.) Derek Barbee and Jeremy Button followed with talks on Making Mistakes and TO Interactions Respectively. These two quick-hit topics added value especially for newer judges. After the lunch break Ken Nichols talked about Take-Backs before I gave my Diversity presentation. Michael Arrowsmith wrapped up with Customer Service then we had a few minutes to get to know new folks in discussion groups. A provided URL offered an opportunity to submit real-time feedback as well.
When?
Saturday, January 14 from 11am to 5pm. The day included six presentations, a catered lunch, and a group discussion. The varied schedule allowed for some social time as well as the formal presentations and testing took place during some sessions. A conference felt like a good way to start 2019 with clear goals and some fresh ideas.
Where?
Mox Boardinghouse in Bellevue, Washington. The tournament room featured black lacquered tables and chairs set in a classic dark paneled room with rich curtains adorning the walls. While the room is set up for streaming Magic, that feature was not utilized for the conference. The on-site restaurant provided lunch which consisted of sliders, macaroni, soup, salad, and a selection of beverages. Ample space outside the room allowed for testing and mentorship meetings to take place during some of the sessions.
Why?
Why would I choose to fly halfway across the country to attend a conference? Well, Seattle is home to various members of my family as well as many judge mentors and friends. Its welcoming community and an opportunity to share a fun presentation enticed me to make the trip. I’m sure glad I did - I learned a lot, met with a mentor, and strengthened relationships while meeting new folks, enjoying Mox’s hospitality, and enjoying the judge community.
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