MoneroKon 2022 Planning Meeting: Sunday 13th February 2022 @ 18:00 UTC

[umma08]

Location
IRC:
#monero-events

The Matrix channel:
#monero-events:monero.social (https://matrix.to/#/#monero-events:monero.social?via=matrix.org&via=monero.social)

The Telegram channel:
t.me/monerokon

These instructions for joining the Matrix server:
https://forum.monero.space/d/79-how-to-join-the-monero-core-team-matrix-server-web

Time:

18:00 UTC

Proposed Meeting Items
:
Please comment on GitHub in advance of the meeting if you would like to propose an agenda item.

Agenda:

1. Greetings
2. Update on CCS status
3. Decision on cancel/move forward/downscale
4. Update on availability/quotes (G+H)
5. Update on website/domain (ajs)
6. Updates from kanban board (if applicable)
7. Agree next steps
8. AOB
9. Confirm next meeting time and date

[umma08]

,,,
[2022-02-13 18:00:24] hello all. It's MoneroKon meeting time
[2022-02-13 18:00:31] hi @ALL
[2022-02-13 18:00:32] #661
[2022-02-13 18:00:36] 1. Greetings
[2022-02-13 18:00:38] Hello.
[2022-02-13 18:00:38] → sgp_[m] joined (~sgpmatrix@2001:470:69fc:105::3825)
[2022-02-13 18:01:02] <carrington[m]> Hi
[2022-02-13 18:01:05] I'm on a phone with a bad battery.
[2022-02-13 18:01:11] hello
[2022-02-13 18:01:46] msvb-web: if you lose power - i will post the logs after the meeting to the github issue
[2022-02-13 18:02:00] 2. Update on CCS status
[2022-02-13 18:02:28] The CCS is 92.56% funded
[2022-02-13 18:02:29] <deedledea[m]> hi!
[2022-02-13 18:02:44] <deverick[m]1> Hello!
[2022-02-13 18:03:02] 6 donations yesterday and 15 so far today
[2022-02-13 18:03:10] deadlines \o/
[2022-02-13 18:03:16] the internal deadline we set was mid Feb (15th).
[2022-02-13 18:03:36] it is excruciatingly close. what do people think?
[2022-02-13 18:03:46] it's looking quite good IMO
[2022-02-13 18:04:07] donations today were after my tweets and I expect a bit more these 24h
[2022-02-13 18:04:34] if the 22.92xmr gets released for ajs_[m] who promised to donate to the CCS we will be at 325.60
[2022-02-13 18:05:12] About that: there was 17.xmr sent to GF by luigi1111, I don't know exact calculations
[2022-02-13 18:05:39] <ajs_[m]> hi
[2022-02-13 18:05:40] But this is available to be sent to monerokon proposal if need be. If not needed by the 15th, I guess we can then use it for the 2nd proposal?
[2022-02-13 18:06:17] i worry about a second proposal at all
[2022-02-13 18:06:19] <carrington[m]> It seems that at the minimum there is enough XMR raised for a scaled down event, even with the price drop since the CCS proposal went live
[2022-02-13 18:07:37] <carrington[m]> Sponsors also haven't been reached out to yet. Excess sponsor money could go into a 2023 fund.
[2022-02-13 18:07:51] many large proposals get funded close to deadline as nioc said, I would not get overly discouraged. IMO it's turning out ok.
[2022-02-13 18:08:32] → ceruleous[m] joined (~ceruleous@2001:470:69fc:105::1:bde3)
[2022-02-13 18:08:34] vik (cake) publicly and privately reached out and is keen to sponsor the conference
[2022-02-13 18:09:58] Is deedle feeling better hopefully?
[2022-02-13 18:10:17] <carrington[m]> Having a firm date & location will probably make it easier to raise funds for a second CCS or get sponsorships
[2022-02-13 18:10:26] imo, it would immensely if some of that proposed sponsorship money went instead to ensuring the CCS is filled
[2022-02-13 18:10:32] *help immensely
[2022-02-13 18:10:35] <deedledea[m]> I am thanks for asking msvb-web :)
[2022-02-13 18:11:28] midipoet: you refer to the 2nd proposal to be made? Or this current one?
[2022-02-13 18:11:49] in the first instance, the current one
[2022-02-13 18:12:16] because we have an impending deadline and have had a great deal of uncertainty for the last few weeeks
[2022-02-13 18:12:44] I'm really confident we'll be there by the 15th. With the 17xmr from GF, only 8 are missing.
[2022-02-13 18:12:53] I'm sure we'll get those 8 in 2 days
[2022-02-13 18:16:17] for the record (ideologically speaking), i am not sure it is a good look for the community (or the planning team's sanity) to be scrounging around the back seat of the couch for spare XMR, while a sponsor waits in the background for "some unknown future happenstance".
[2022-02-13 18:16:23] that's my rant
[2022-02-13 18:16:39] so we can wait till the 15th and see where we are
[2022-02-13 18:17:07] 3. Decision on cancel/move forward/downscale
[2022-02-13 18:17:24] ^ i guess this decision needs to wait till the 15th as well?
[2022-02-13 18:19:59] what are the metrics for deciding to downscale or not? Not just the amount raised I guess, say the proposal is fully funded by the 15th, how do we decide?
[2022-02-13 18:20:18] binaryFate: honestly, i have no idea
[2022-02-13 18:20:27] Seems impractical to have a cancellation meeting in two days, what's the alternative?
[2022-02-13 18:21:53] the first CCS will be funded
[2022-02-13 18:21:58] <carrington[m]> The question of whether to downscale is tied up with what the venue options are at this point
[2022-02-13 18:22:34] yeah, I'm 100% sure the first CCS will be funded as well, so I'd rather work on what's next rather than pulling hour hair over a cancelation meeting in 2 days
[2022-02-13 18:22:43] nioc: yes, but the apprehension/lack of appetite across the community for the event has led a few of us to have some doubts about how feasible it will be to fill a 200 capacity venue
[2022-02-13 18:23:09] in reality - i am not certain we can fill 200 capacity
[2022-02-13 18:23:16] even if 50 are volunteers + speakers
[2022-02-13 18:23:33] and this conversation ties into the venue convo
[2022-02-13 18:23:47] The most consistent thing to do is cancel if the fund fails by 15 February, but this doesn't feel like the best outcome.
[2022-02-13 18:24:08] <carrington[m]> For reference, Monerotopia 2022 has a venue with a capacity of 200
[2022-02-13 18:24:37] carrington[m]: isn't this taking place at the same time as some other crypto event in miami?
[2022-02-13 18:24:39] planning for the # of attendees is always difficult
[2022-02-13 18:24:58] 200 seems like a max and 50 seems low
[2022-02-13 18:25:58] as of now I don't know if I will be able to attend or not
[2022-02-13 18:26:42] nioc: the issue is that we have two realistic choices of venue so far. Venue A) seems to be able to absorb 50-200+ without an issue (as their is an embedded "community") that comes with the venue. Venue B is more formal - and would need us to fill it (also much more expensive).
[2022-02-13 18:27:51] embedded community?
[2022-02-13 18:27:57] <carrington[m]> Yes Monerotopia is in Miami along with Bitcoin Miami
[2022-02-13 18:28:31] nioc: yes, the venue acts as a music/artists hub
[2022-02-13 18:28:51] https://arrozestudios.pt/
[2022-02-13 18:30:26] i was hoping for @manhuichi and @gramsdb to be here to provide formal a/b comparisons, but i don't think they are here
[2022-02-13 18:31:07] So the embedded community is made of non Monero people who would be going to the venue regardless of what conference it is.
[2022-02-13 18:31:41] however, i did get a message from them about Arroz (they have the b/w for stream upload, and have many power outlets). they also have option of a/c tower and mobile mobile phone charging stations.
[2022-02-13 18:32:27] Better than having a disinterested or menacing group in any case.
[2022-02-13 18:33:28] <deedledea[m]> Yes and perhaps even a chance to open the Monero community
[2022-02-13 18:33:38] so we will be speaking to people in addition the "choir"
[2022-02-13 18:34:08] Given where we are, the flexibility of arroz plus their existing community sounds interesting, as we'd feel much more "safe" than with the other space in terms of filling it sufficiently or not being sure early about our expectations
[2022-02-13 18:34:09] <carrington[m]> Setting a date would really get the ball rolling, regardless of whether it is scaled down or not
[2022-02-13 18:35:15] carrington[m]: i think we had decided June 18-19
[2022-02-13 18:36:29] ajs_[m]: the venue said vodafone advertises 100mpbs
[2022-02-13 18:37:00] but realistically it is 15 down and 35 up (so the email said). they think it should be fine
[2022-02-13 18:37:03] That is upstream?
[2022-02-13 18:37:07] <ajs_[m]> i am sure that is for dowload
[2022-02-13 18:37:09] <deedledea[m]> imo Arraz looks like a great space with a lot of utility, it fits with our low and high range of estimate of people and its just cool.
[2022-02-13 18:37:58] <ajs_[m]> upload should be sufficient for a 1080p stream
[2022-02-13 18:38:18] ajs_[m]: i guess there is no way really to verify this, unless we ask them to run some tests?
[2022-02-13 18:38:48] <hansams[m]1> I have 100 to 150 ppl tech events before. We had rule of thumb: we filled first 50% with sponsorships and if the goal was met, we announced the event. Other 50% was tickets and other sponsors. 2 to 3 first sponsors are hard.
[2022-02-13 18:40:20] does anybody have strong opinions on trying for Suspenso (Venue B).
[2022-02-13 18:40:59] I do, but my wish is unfortunately not realistic die to coat.
[2022-02-13 18:41:16] <hansams[m]1> Free flowing venue and at least like minded community (artists etc) helps a lot.
[2022-02-13 18:41:18] <ajs_[m]> midipoet: I am looking at getting a HDMI switcher that has build in 4G LTE, which could be used as a back up link
[2022-02-13 18:41:37] msvb-web: is the desire for a city centre venue, or just something more professional looking, or both?
[2022-02-13 18:42:08] <carrington[m]> https://suspenso.pt/
[2022-02-13 18:42:21] Lisboa may have 5g ajs_[m], in case another device has the option.
[2022-02-13 18:43:00] <hansams[m]1> midipoet: Professional looking sucks imho.
[2022-02-13 18:43:03] ajs_[m]: this links to another question they had re the equipment list. they have the basics (speakers, projector, etc), but wanted to know if we need anything in particular, so they can cost it. they also wanted to know if we wanted their tech team, or if we would do it.
[2022-02-13 18:43:09] <ajs_[m]> https://yololiv.com/site/yoloboxPro
[2022-02-13 18:43:21] yolobox . ha
[2022-02-13 18:43:46] Suspenso has more shade, better power, conference tables, and a better location (walking distance.)
[2022-02-13 18:44:13] Less dirt and dust into computers.
[2022-02-13 18:44:23] <hansams[m]1> Listen. Do you have anybody on the ground there? Well connected and experienced?
[2022-02-13 18:44:50] I still like Aroz as well however, and it's a lot cheaper.
[2022-02-13 18:45:57] <ajs_[m]> midipoet: i could make a list of equipment that is needed
[2022-02-13 18:46:21] the worry with Suspenso is that we book it (let's say ~€20,000). and then don't fill it. we would also need to think about how to advertise the night (afterparty). wheras Arroz sort of has that all built in.
[2022-02-13 18:46:29] what is the cost difference?
[2022-02-13 18:46:31] ajs_[m]: yeah, i think that would help a lot
[2022-02-13 18:47:06] nioc: it's probably ~€7000 (if at all) vs €20000+
[2022-02-13 18:47:09] <carrington[m]> hansams[m]: the situation is that we have hired two project managers, who live nearby and know the area well, to scout out venues
[2022-02-13 18:47:50] <ajs_[m]> Arroz makes a lot more since imo
[2022-02-13 18:48:01] nioc: but Suspenso seems like it would be really hard to downscale (as it is a large venue)
[2022-02-13 18:48:36] ajs_[m]: yes, i think so as well. afterall, i know the first MoneroKon was a very professional event - but it is no great harm if this one "goes back to the roots"
[2022-02-13 18:48:50] <deedledea[m]> midipoet: 7K is a good rate for a venue and fits within budget
[2022-02-13 18:49:29] deedledea[m]: to be honest, i am only estimating, @manhuichi and @gramsdb would have to confirm.
[2022-02-13 18:50:13] <hansams[m]1> Like I said, I have done many tech events (startup hackathons and community events). Definitely Arroz. Connection is of course very important for tech events, but in some cases we hired a company to provide a good network at the event. It was sponsored.
[2022-02-13 18:50:24] <deedledea[m]> midipoet: noted
[2022-02-13 18:50:30] It is my very subjective view: what Monero needs is to catch up on all the conferences, C3s, meetups in various place of the world that couldn't take place since 2 years. We can't get that back, but what's critical is to keep/revive the vibe and culture that would otherwise have been passed all along. I think Arroz ticks that box much better.
[2022-02-13 18:51:09] Do g&h have enough confirmation from Aroz for us to claim and publish the venue and date on the website? In order to follow carrington[m]'s suggestion to get fixed information published?
[2022-02-13 18:51:32] msvb-web: no, i think we would need to wait for a formal "agree on date" email exchange.
[2022-02-13 18:51:49] i am guessing that can some this week though (probably ~15th)
[2022-02-13 18:52:28] *some time this week
[2022-02-13 18:53:17] ok. in the interests of time, is there any objections to pursuing Arroz formally (to confirm/book date this week)
[2022-02-13 18:53:44] <carrington[m]> No objection from me
[2022-02-13 18:54:21] why was June 18-49 chosen ?
[2022-02-13 18:54:26] 18-19
[2022-02-13 18:55:05] nioc: the last weekend was problematic for G+H, and the 11-12 was potentially problematic for academics (exams/resits)
[2022-02-13 18:55:26] <ajs_[m]> some universities have exams early June
[2022-02-13 18:57:42] ok. 5. Update on website/domain (ajs)
[2022-02-13 18:58:11] (i skipped 4. as @manhuichi and @gramsdb aren't here)
[2022-02-13 18:58:50] <carrington[m]> I have to head out. I will try to really expand the list of potential speakers so that we can reach out widely as soon as the date/location is set and proposals can be accepted
[2022-02-13 18:58:56] <carrington[m]> Thanks for the meeting
[2022-02-13 18:59:18] carrington[m]: thanks. will ping you if we have a midweek meeting
[2022-02-13 18:59:27] <ajs_[m]> WIP, no updates
[2022-02-13 18:59:42] ok. 6. Updates from kanban board (if applicable)
[2022-02-13 18:59:56] i don't think there are any major updates on the above (at least that i know of)
[2022-02-13 19:00:57] 7. Agree next steps
[2022-02-13 19:01:09] i will ask G+H to move to formally booking the venue for 18-19
[2022-02-13 19:01:47] there was an outstanding question about whether we wanted their tech team or wanted to do it ourselves
[2022-02-13 19:01:52] ajs_[m]: what do you think?
[2022-02-13 19:02:23] i am assuming there would be at least one point of contact from their team to help with enquiries/problems, etc (but will confirm)
[2022-02-13 19:05:11] <ajs_[m]> if they could provide the basics... sound system, projector, screen.. i think we could do tech ourselves
[2022-02-13 19:06:29] <hansams[m]1> Just putting it out there how I can help:... (full message at https://libera.ems.host/_matrix/media/r0/download/libera.chat/44232d325b5786f2f57d75f8a0e551bda15cac56)
[2022-02-13 19:06:41] <ajs_[m]> the DJ set up would be different though
[2022-02-13 19:07:52] ajs_[m]: ok. i will let them know and see what the cost is for some support (at least for the evening sound/lights).
[2022-02-13 19:07:57] <ajs_[m]> I assume they already have the equipment, lights, and DJs for the after party since is they usually host evening events
[2022-02-13 19:08:28] so last question - should we have a Jitsi meeting on Wednesday to move forward?
[2022-02-13 19:08:54] (at that point we should definitely know if we are funded) and can move to outstanding venue questions
[2022-02-13 19:09:12] or shall we just meet next Sunday here?
[2022-02-13 19:09:35] (and formalise as much with Arroz as possible in the meantime)
[2022-02-13 19:10:27] <deedledea[m]> > <@hansams:monero.social> Just putting it out there how I can help:... (full message at https://libera.ems.host/_matrix/media/r0/download/libera.chat/658f28951f162cb6d78565f5f4c838356b46db8d)
[2022-02-13 19:10:29] hansams[m]1: if you have contacts in Lisbon, and you think they may be able to help gathering sponsors, i don't think there is any harm in asking them
[2022-02-13 19:12:38] <hansams[m]1> deedledea[m]: No problem. Just let me know how you do it? Where do you keep in contact within the team? I thought this is the only place, no?
[2022-02-13 19:12:57] <ajs_[m]> hansams[m]: yes we need someone with presence on stage to be the MC to introduce speakers and give schedule updates
[2022-02-13 19:13:24] <ajs_[m]> rehrar_: was great in c3
[2022-02-13 19:13:48] ok. let's meet next Sunday regardless and in the meantime i will try and arrange a midweek meeting to iron out any outstanding issues (mid week is optional for everyone)
[2022-02-13 19:13:57] 8. AOB
[2022-02-13 19:14:10] anything else we should/need to discuss?
[2022-02-13 19:14:35] hansams[m]1: I think deedledea[m] refers to the live video calls on Wednesdays (you don't need to have video on and don't necessarily need to talk if you prefer to type in chat)
[2022-02-13 19:14:51] <hansams[m]1> midipoet: I will reach out to my contact. He is managing similar creative place near Lisbon (https://www.facebook.com/largo.space)
[2022-02-13 19:15:49] hansams[m]1: i am not on facebook
[2022-02-13 19:16:04] who is
[2022-02-13 19:16:37] :)
[2022-02-13 19:16:38] ok - let's close the meeting here.
[2022-02-13 19:16:43] <ajs_[m]> parents and Russian bots
[2022-02-13 19:16:44] <hansams[m]1> binaryFate: This would help a lot. I don't mind voice/video. I will see, what I can bring to the table.
[2022-02-13 19:16:46] <hansams[m]1> midipoet: They have got only Facebook page :)
[2022-02-13 19:16:56] i will post the logs on the github issue
[2022-02-13 19:17:13] hansams[m]1: :-(
[2022-02-13 19:17:15] hansams[m]1: super. midipoet can send you the link?
[2022-02-13 19:17:38] yes - i will ping all when the midweek meeting is arranged
[2022-02-13 19:17:51] cool
[2022-02-13 19:17:52] and if we don't chat then, then same time here next week
,,,