-- If they went trolling around the UT or experts-exchange or wherever, than I would factor that into any decision to write them a check for their services. It wouldn't disqualify them automatically, but it would factor into the decision of which of the half dozen potential conferences I should spend money on this year.

Then, I'm afraid that you would wind up missing all of the conferences this year. All of the conference organizers send e-mail to potential attendees.

IMHO, this is a good thing. The first GLGDW (WhilFest) that I attended was because I got a post card from Whil advertizing the event. I had never heard of it and after getting that card, I asked around to see if it was a good value.

I am so glad that I got that post card! If I hadn't, I would have missed one of the best VFP conferences I have ever attended.

Essential Fox is a great value as well. I was at the first one last year, and Russ did a great job. As is typical in this community, Whil was right there helping Russ to make the conference a great success.

Just my $.02