There's really no good excuse for me taking so long to post my EMA thoughts. The second I landed (actually before I even got home) life just didn't let go of me for an instant. Things are finally starting to quiet down around here. By the time you read this we'll most likely be arguing over competing holographic video formats.
So, apologies.
However, I'm struck with the notion that my tardiness lends me a certain perspective on the event which tugged me into Las Vegas, a place I'd formally vowed not to revisit.
The first night I spent in Sin City reminded me of all the things I'd disliked about the town itself. I began questioning my wisdom in attending the EMA altogether. Had I spent all this time and money foolishly? Would I find all of the proceedings just too technical? Would the other attendees be just too technical minded? Would Ernest Borgnine take umbrage with me and lay me low?
Turns out, looking back at this late date, that I was a little bit right and a LOT wrong.
To be perfectly honest, much of the EMA itself is lost on me now. While I did enjoy being an "industry insider" for a bit, little of that side of things really stuck. The format war didn't become any more clear. Meeting some interesting celebrities is always fun for me, but I'd rather not travel to Vegas to hunt them down.
It may sound very Hallmark of me, but it was the PEOPLE of the HTF that made the difference for me. My fellow HTF wing-men turned what might have been a regrettable foray into an unforgettable experience. One I'd like to repeat as many years as I'm able.
A special thanks goes out to Matt, who really took me under his wing. Five minutes and I knew I'd made a friend. I can't thank him enough for getting me up in that chopper on the final day of my stay. The highlight of my Vegas journey.
As far as I'm concerned, making one good friend on a trip makes the whole endeavor worth it. But I made more than my fair share.
Greg, Matt and Cameron; the Three Musketeers. Thanks for letting me be our d'Artagnan. Or was that Cameron?
Sam, Patrick and "Chicago"; you three were always nearby for whatever cool thing was happening at the time. Often with a camera or two in hand. I'd like to think I shared a few laughs with each of you.
Rich, you are the stealthiest guy I've ever met. If I meet any dames in need of a gumshoe, you're the man.
Kaz, thanks for the drink(s).
Last, but certainly not least, el presidente Ron Epstein. Our fearless leader. It was a pleasure and a privilege to make your acquaintance. I look forward to seeing your cunning new hat when next we meet.
To anyone I may have forgotten (cad that I am) and to ALL those who made the EMA experience possible, my deepest thanks.
I hope to see you all soon, in whatever city will take us.
-Andy Munich
My thoughts are fashionably late...?
It will be here by the end of the weekend.