Worldcon 2021 Day -1: The 10 1/2-Hour Voter Validation

After Lisa and I went out and bought the bungee cords for the WSFS banner, stopped by CVS to buy more drinks, and picked up some lunch, I went to the session planned to validate advance ballots received for 2023 Site Selection. I was one of Winnipeg's two representatives to the important task of validating the ballots received in advance. That does not mean counting the votes themselves. The ballots are folded in such a way that we can't see how people vote. This session is for confirming that ever ballot received in advance is from an eligible member of the current Worldcon who has paid the Advance Supporting Membership (Voting) Fee that makes them a member of the 2023 Worldcon regardless of who wins.

[Update, 12/15 20:40 PM: For reasons that will be made clear in a subsequent post, and at the request of DisCon III management, I have deleted most of this post.]

Ironically, we did voter validation in the same room where my first commitment during the convention itself will be: the Presidential Boardroom where the WSFS Mark Protection Committee will be meet on Wednesday afternoon.

Worldcon 2021 Day 1: One and Done

I have been relieved of my position as Chair of the 2021 WSFS Business Meeting by DisCon III Chair Mary Robinette Kowal as of this evening. Deputy Chair Donald Eastlake III takes over with immediate effect.

The Winnipeg in 2023 Worldcon bid committee has also released me from their committee.

My actions yesterday, taken by me without any consultation with the management of either DisCon III or of the Winnipeg in 2023 committee, showed a lack of judgment on my part, and I ask everyone to not hold either organization responsible for my actions, which were my decision and not theirs.

Am I disappointed? Obviously. But people make mistakes, and sometimes they have to pay for the consequences. As long as they're not heating up the tar and plucking chickens, or calling for me to be drawn and quartered, I reckon I'll be okay.

Hey, now I don't have to wear a suit to the Business Meeting. And I reckon Lisa will appreciate having me available to carry her tripod and other equipment.