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Michael
Ward: Our goal with
DMG 2010 content and speakers has been very clear from the
beginning. We want new compelling
speakers and content. We want
engaging conversations and no self-promoting.
Most importantly, we want attendees to walk away with new
ideas on how to increase their ROI on their domain investments.
Scene
from one of last year's panel discussions at Domainer Mardi Gras
Michael
Ward: The content that we have put together for DMG 2010
ranges from new players in the industry making a name for themselves
- that we could learn a thing or two from – to having a meaningful
conversation on new TLDs. The
issues that surround new TLDs are plenty but what I don’t see are
the various parties talking to each other.
Some would say that “Well they are talking to each other
within the ICANN process” but I would suggest that a lot of
people who will be impacted by new TLDs are not part of the ICANN
process. Sure, it is easy to
talk AT each other on a forum or blog or in a comments
section on the ICANN webpage. What
is more challenging, but also more productive, is to also talk TO
and WITH each other. So
I am looking forward to the discussion on New TLDs where we have
some very compelling panelists participating.
Website development is also a hot topic this
year and we have the right experts on the panel that can get to the
heart of the matter when it comes to developing domain names and how
to increase revenue on domain assets.
Back by popular demand we will have a session on where is the
industry heading. We are
also introducing a new session where I turn on the microphone and
sort of speak and sit down for what I know will be an exciting
interview with you and Andrew Allemann, two leaders in the
domain name blogging space. The
expectations have been set with all panelists.
They have been preparing for the past few weeks on their
sessions and I know they are looking forward to the challenge.
DN Journal:
With New Orleans and Mardi Gras as a backdrop you have an
almost “unfair” advantage when it comes to social events. Tell
us what you have planned to give registrants the full Big Easy/Mardi
Gras experience during DMG.
Michael Ward:
We are bringing back the Crawfish Boil for the first night.
If you have not ever had a crawfish, this will be your chance
to get down and dirty with the crustacean delicacy.
Attendees
at last year's Domainer Mardi Gras dig in during the Crawfish Boil
Michael Ward:
We will also have other food available making for a truly
traditional New Orleans evening.
Mardi Gras would not be complete without spending time on a Bourbon
Street Balcony so courtesy of Parked.com, we are bringing
the balcony back to DMG 2010 – and PLENTY of beads for
everyone.
DMG
attendees on the Parked.com Bourbon Street Balcony in 2009
| Michael Ward:
We also have built time into the agenda to experience the
parades that will take place throughout the weekend.
I also want to point out that on Thursday, we have
registration taking place beginning 12 pm through 5 pm.
We all know it only takes 5 minutes to register so I
would highly encourage DMG 2010 attendees to consider taking a
2-hour cruise on the Steamboat Natchez.
It departs 15 minutes away from the hotel at 2:30pm and
returns at 4:30pm.
I have been told it is the only steamboat that still
cruises the Mississippi River and is well worth the
money. Get a group
together and check it out.
We also have a dedicated place offsite, near the hotel,
where people can meet up, grab a drink and a bite to eat.
Come |
The
Natchez steamboat rounds a bend
on the Mississippi River |
| Sunday or Monday or whenever you
return home from your weekend in New Orleans, you will be
pleased with your Mardi Gras experience and glad you attended
DMG 2010. |
DN Journal:
Domain auctions go hand in hand with domain conferences but I
understand you have something a little different planned for the DMG
auction. Tell us about that.
Michael Ward:
We are doing something different this year.
With so many live auctions taking place in the first few
weeks this year, Moniker and DMG felt it would be more
effective to partner and host a weeklong online
showcase
Mardi Gras auction. Moniker is clearly demonstrating
the success they are having with their online showcase auction.
Deadline for domain submissions is January 26th.
The auction begins Tuesday, February 9th
and concludes on Fat Tuesday February 16th.
We are looking forward to seeing quality domains submitted
and reserves being met. This will also free up time for afternoon
networking and parade viewing.
One
of the parade photos we took during last year's Domainer Mardi Gras
DN Journal:
Plane reservations and
hotel rooms are always tight during Mardi Gras. The block of rooms
you have at the Marriott will be closed by the time this reaches
print. So, with the show coming up Feb. 11-13, will it still be
possible for late deciders to find accommodations and attend?
Michael Ward:
Finding accommodations is extremely difficult but not
impossible to find in New Orleans during Mardi Gras.
I have held back a few rooms for this reason.
If you want to attend DMG 2010 but are unable to book at room
at the New Orleans Marriott, contact me at [email protected].
I may still have a room available.
I would also recommend going online and seeing what you can
find through travel sites. Whatever
you do, make sure you book a room on the right side of the street.
If you book a room on the wrong side, you may find yourself
confined to a certain area and not able to cross the street because
it is blocked off by parades – A situation you don’t want to be
in!
DN Journal:
Thank you for your time Michael. Looking forward to seeing you at Domainer
Mardi Gras.
*****
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