(Close Window) Topic: Anyone get the Dec/Jan or Feb/March issues of Kidabra?
Message: Posted by: MT (Mar 15, 2011 10:59am)
I never got mine. Wanted to see if I'm the only one or if everyone's in the same boat. Thanks.
Message: Posted by: Skip Way (Mar 15, 2011 1:00pm)
Hmmm...I thought it was just me. Curious.
Message: Posted by: magic4kids (Mar 15, 2011 7:04pm)
Have not received mine either. Very Frustrating!
Message: Posted by: phill (Mar 16, 2011 10:30pm)
Quote:

Skip Way wrote:
Hmmm...I thought it was just me. Curious.


I was thinking the exact same thing…
Message: Posted by: MikeHMagic (Mar 19, 2011 5:55pm)
None here...tho my renewal notice made it
Message: Posted by: magic4kids (Mar 22, 2011 6:18pm)
Anybody know when we'll be receiving these issues????
Message: Posted by: Dennis Michael (Mar 23, 2011 12:56am)
It is supposed to be in the mail.
Message: Posted by: phill (Mar 31, 2011 5:30pm)
Any update on this?
Message: Posted by: Dennis Michael (Apr 1, 2011 12:55am)
So where is the Journal? by Mark and Tami Daniel

It's coming, (The Tommy James issue is next) however apologies and explanations are due. Maybe you've noticed were further behind than usual. While we mention family details briefly, and on occasion, please forgive this inside glimpse of our family news.

Since December 28th, my dad, Bob Daniel, 80, has been in and out of the hospital with complications of congestive heart failure and endless doctors appointments, 95 percent of which we, mostly Tami, accompany him to, many taking all day, often several times a week, mix in my mom, Velma, with dementia, and our lives have been hectic. We are honored to help our folks any way we can. However it's come at a price in office time. Tami is the KI Office and while she carries her Blackberry with her, the out of the office time is challenging. We are, as always, committed to the success and growth of KIDabra and we appreciate your understanding, as we work through this family time.

Renewing Your KI Membership
Thank you for renewing your membership. The majority of your membership fee goes to the publication and shipping of the terrific KIDabra Journal. We have found that with tougher economic times folks let memberships lapse assuming that they don't make a difference. Believe me you do, and are a valued part of the KIDabra family, plus renewing helps in keeping the magazine on schedule. To renew or join now go to kidabra.org and click on Join. Thanks so much and if you have already, double thanks!
Message: Posted by: phill (Apr 1, 2011 12:50pm)
Dennis -
Thank you for the update…
Message: Posted by: DominotheGreat (Apr 1, 2011 5:24pm)
Thanks for your update as we all are wondering why are the journals so far behind. Thanks again and hope for the best with your families!
Message: Posted by: Daveandrews (Apr 7, 2011 9:00am)
Got my Dec/Jan this morning - brilliant!

Dave
Message: Posted by: TommyJ (Apr 8, 2011 7:28am)
I haven't gotten mine yet :(

How do I look on the cover!???? LOL

Can't wait to see it!!!!!!!!

Tommy
Message: Posted by: Dennis Michael (Apr 8, 2011 9:30am)
Don Rinkles
Message: Posted by: TedLashley (Apr 8, 2011 10:24am)
My KIDabra Journal arrived in Thursday's mail... Great cover shot!

TED
Message: Posted by: Daveandrews (Apr 8, 2011 11:35am)
You look great, Tommy!

Dave
Message: Posted by: TommyJ (Apr 8, 2011 6:13pm)
Checked my mail today. No delivery yet.
Message: Posted by: Julie Carpenter (Apr 9, 2011 5:07pm)
I got mine yesterday. Thanks for the write up Tommy. Im glad you understood the dilema I was in.
Message: Posted by: TommyJ (Apr 9, 2011 10:00pm)
You're welcome Julie. You handled the situation very well. I STILL haven't received my journal yet!
Message: Posted by: todd75 (Apr 9, 2011 11:08pm)
Got mine today!
Message: Posted by: Dennis Michael (Apr 10, 2011 5:58am)
I usually get mine before most others and I still haven't got mine. Maybe Monday.
Message: Posted by: Daveandrews (Apr 10, 2011 10:46am)
You should move to the UK ;)

Dave
Message: Posted by: Dennis Michael (Apr 10, 2011 12:29pm)
Na be an official Brit, naw don't think I could pass for one.
Message: Posted by: MikeHMagic (Apr 11, 2011 10:59pm)
Got mine, and as always read it cover to cover, great stuff Tommy! It was fun talking @ Kidabra last summer...and I know what you did last summer
Message: Posted by: TommyJ (Apr 12, 2011 7:54am)
Thanks Gus. I will never forget it. It was a great experience. See you this summer and . . . I know you won the free pass! :)
Message: Posted by: phill (Apr 13, 2011 10:14pm)
My Journal arrived today!
Message: Posted by: TommyJ (Apr 14, 2011 9:00am)
STILL waiting for mine :mad:
Message: Posted by: Dennis Michael (Apr 16, 2011 10:29am)
Tommy, you don't get one because you're on the cover and its a very good picture! Right now you're all over the world, many hands are caressing through the pages, just learning what a great guy you are!
Message: Posted by: TommyJ (Apr 16, 2011 10:34am)
If I had blood I would blush lol Thanks Dennis for the kind words . . . but I'm STILL waiting for mine GRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRR!

Posted: Apr 20, 2011 11:48am
STILL no journal.how do people over seas have theirs two weeks ago and I don't have mine. Neither does my friends in New Hampshire or Indiana have theirs either.
Message: Posted by: Gary Shelton (Apr 20, 2011 8:03pm)
Our plan to hide Tommy's Journal is progressing as planned!
Message: Posted by: todd75 (Apr 20, 2011 9:39pm)
Tommy: Since you are on the cover, you don't get one! Ha ha! LOL!

Not sure what the mailing pattern is on these. You would think they would all be sent out at the same time.
Message: Posted by: TommyJ (Apr 21, 2011 8:07am)
Quote:

On 2011-04-20 20:03, Gary Shelton wrote:
Our plan to hide Tommy's Journal is progressing as planned!

Now that's funny Gary :)

I am a patient man, but I can't wait to see . . . . ME!
Message: Posted by: MikeHMagic (Apr 23, 2011 11:19pm)
Why Tommy, did you forget what you look like?
Message: Posted by: TommyJ (Apr 25, 2011 7:49am)
Quote:

On 2011-04-23 23:19, MikeHMagic wrote:
Why Tommy, did you forget what you look like?


Just wanted to see how handsome I look on a journal. (Did I ever mention how modest I am????)
Message: Posted by: Gordyboy (Apr 25, 2011 11:25am)
Tommy, would it help if I took a picture of mine and emailed it to you?
Message: Posted by: MikeHMagic (Apr 25, 2011 3:43pm)
Tommy...all I can say is you are just as handsome on the journal as you are in person
Message: Posted by: TommyJ (Apr 25, 2011 6:45pm)
Quote:

On 2011-04-25 11:25, Gordyboy wrote:
Tommy, would it help if I took a picture of mine and emailed it to you?

YES!!! That would be great! lol Actually mine just came in the other day. I moved from RI to MA but my son still lives at my house in RI and he said it came in Saturday. Now I have to drive to see me!

Quote:

On 2011-04-25 15:43, MikeHMagic wrote:
Tommy...all I can say is you are just as handsome on the journal as you are in person

Oh thanks Gus. If I had blood I would blush! :)
Message: Posted by: harlin (Apr 27, 2011 10:41am)
I still haven't recieved my copy yet!! I have given up and after the conference is over, unless it is a really really great conference, I will proably give up on Kidabra. They just don't seem to take care of business. So sad because they have a good thing going.
Harlin
Message: Posted by: Donald Dunphy (Apr 27, 2011 10:52am)
Harlin -

If you paid for your membership, and it's been a few months (without any mail or magazine), then you might need to send a reminder email to ask what's going on. Or make a call.

Sometimes things get lost in the mail or email.

I witnessed this yesterday. Someone blew up at another person, for apparently not replying to his email, offering to pay for some copywriting service. Turns out that the second person had replied a while ago, but the message didn't reach the first person. The first person didn't know a reply had been sent. The second person didn't know that his reply hadn't been received.

- Donald
Message: Posted by: harlin (Apr 27, 2011 11:31am)
Donald I have talked to them several times and all I get is the run around. I am not blowing up at them they just do not take care of business!! That is why they are 3 magizines behind, reminds me of Genie.
Harlin
Message: Posted by: magic4kids (Apr 27, 2011 7:09pm)
Harlin, I agree with you 100%. The journal has been running behind for about 2 years now, if rember correctly. I believe it was mentioned in an email update from Mark and Tami that they are dealing with some family issues concerning their paernts and that has contributed to the journal being delayed. I am VERY sympathetic when it comes to caring for elderly parents, having recently lost my own parents.
However, there is a business/organization to be run and for the journal to be three issues behind is completely unacceptable,in my opinion.
I am considering if I want to renew my membership. One can argue that it is "just a magazine", but the fact is its a great magazine and major part of our membership dues. My 2 cents.
Message: Posted by: MikeHMagic (Apr 27, 2011 9:28pm)
Tommy...If I had a heart, I'd be touched...I'd say I'm touched in the head, but that is Gary's domain..LOL
Message: Posted by: idomagic (Apr 29, 2011 1:22am)
I'm a new member and have not received a thing since I joined in February. Now that I read this I sadly see this is par for the course. It seems apparent to me the powers that be are overwhelmed.

I organized and chaired the board for the first 8 years for a large retail trade group in the US back in my former life. I was even given the lifetime achievement award in 2004 (http://www.covr.org/covr-awards/previous-years/2004-awards) just after retiring from the industry and moving into magic full time. I can't believe that was almost 8 years ago. I also served on several non and not for profit boards and am a past president for an SAM assembly and IBM ring with over 100 members... So why do I share this?

Organizations are only as strong as their members. Perhaps we collectively need to look at helping Kidabra work better. Since I have no idea how it works or how it has worked, I can't offer suggestions, but I can say I'll step up and do what I can. I can offer advice from my experiences with other organizations and within magic.

Maybe we collectible need to be proactive, it appears to me Mark and Tami might appreciate it. But of course, I don't know if there are politics involved, like I said, I'm a noob in Kidabra.
Message: Posted by: Skip Way (Apr 29, 2011 1:21pm)
Chad, up until the last issues, the Journal has always been on time and well worth the wait. I know personally that Tami and Mark are working feverishly to get the last missing issue up and out along with the current issue. After that, we'll be back on track. Everyone hits a rough spot now and then - but, we're pulling through!

As for politics in KIDabra - Tami and Mark welcome all offers to help and rely heavily on the efforts of folks like Dennis Michael, Ken Scott, Tate Elliot, myself and a host of other KIDabra fans and family members.

By the way - Welcome to the family!

Skip
Message: Posted by: harlin (Apr 29, 2011 1:35pm)
I am not sure if you are totally correct Skip, but I am not going to argue the point. I do know that it took several, yes several emails and phone calls to even get a response from them. I for one am not a real happy camper. But such is life and I will get over it. And yes I have heard that politics or clics do exist but they do everywhere. I am coming to Kidabra and hopefully all my issues will be taken care by it being the best convention I have ever attented.
Harlin
Message: Posted by: Skip Way (Apr 29, 2011 6:38pm)
Harlin, you're always going to have select groups of people form within an organization of any size. KIDabra is no different.

That said, I've been attending magic and entertainment conventions and conferences since the early 70's and always felt like an outsider until I hit KIDabra. The top performers and lecturers take time to say hello and to pass the time. They take the time to answer questions and help one another. They have their "cliques," sure...everyone wants to see old friends and hang with those with whom they have the most in common. But, they're not stand-offish or snobbish by any means.

You have to keep in mind that KIDabra is Mark & Tami's baby. They don't have a paid staff to keep things moving smoothly. Mark is a very busy school and library performer with contracts all over the eastern states. Tami is busy caring for the home front and two very active and gifted sons. The entire family has faced health and family issues that eat up time and energy.

It's easy to get overwhelmed - even with the support of those of us who are there to lend a hand when asked. If they missed your emails, there's probably a pretty good reason. I'm willing to give them the benefit of a doubt in return for all I gain from the organization, Journal and conference.

If you (and others) have a suggestion for improving their service to KIDabra members, I know they're ready to listen. See you in August!
Message: Posted by: kenscott (Apr 30, 2011 12:07am)
I have to ditto what Skip said. To harlan I would have to say there have not been too many late issues. Yes the issue at hand was late but it has been explained why. It is my understanding that if for some reason if someone does not get a issue after it has left the printing comapany Tami sends one personally from the extra they get. Needless to say the journal is well worth the little money that is paid for it.

As to politics cliques? Skip said it best. But for those that have never been to a kidabra I think it best to see if that statement is true by attending instead of hearing it from someone else.

I am surprised at the harsh comments.

Ken Scott
Message: Posted by: idomagic (Apr 30, 2011 12:45am)
Thanks for the welcome. I do hope that whatever appears to be not working at full efficiency to cause this thread gets addressed. It certainly appears the proactive members are working towards that end.

See you in August if I can free up the time!
Message: Posted by: TommyJ (Apr 30, 2011 8:58am)
Quote:

On 2011-04-29 18:38, Skip Way wrote:


That said, I've been attending magic and entertainment conventions and conferences since the early 70's and always felt like an outsider until I hit KIDabra. The top performers and lecturers take time to say hello and to pass the time. They take the time to answer questions and help one another. They have their "cliques," sure...everyone wants to see old friends and hang with those with whom they have the most in common. But, they're not stand-offish or snobbish by any means.


That is a totally false statement. I was at Kidabra in August and I tried to talk to Skip. He looked at me, put his nose up in the air and walked away! :)

All kidding aside . . . I can understand the concerns with some members being frustrated. I personally know two people that STILL haven't received their Dec/Jan Journal. I finally received mine last week. Yahoooo!!!!!!!!!!! I have to contact Tami and Mark for @ 10 more of these because my family and friends want a copy :) :) :) :)

Skip is right. I am confident you can walk up to any Kidabra staff member (except Ken) or performer and you will be treated like a brother or sister.

(Just kidding Ken!)

I loved the line by Mark in the front of the journal where he calls me a "wisecracking funny man." I THINK that's a compliment lol

Tommy
Message: Posted by: Skip Way (Apr 30, 2011 10:32am)
Quote:

On 2011-04-30 08:58, TommyJ wrote:


I was at Kidabra in August and I tried to talk to Skip. He looked at me, put his nose up in the air and walked away! :)
Tommy


That wasn't you, Tommy. Jimbo was standing behind you eying my pulled pork sandwich and cupcake. I was merely rescuing my lunch!! :)
Message: Posted by: harlin (Apr 30, 2011 11:07am)
I am attending this year so I will be able to see for myself. I still think quick response is the way to run a business and yes Kidabra is a business. Believe it or not I am excited to come to Kidabra to see people I know plus meet the ones I hear and read about. I also know at any conference you get out of it what you put into it, such is life. So there will always be those that clic together and those that stand by the wayside, sounded churchy didn't it, and I plan on doing all I can so I really know if I want to continue or not. So I can make up my own mind.
As far as the journal being late it could be where I live but it is rarely on time. I will admitt not usually this late but always a couple of weeks. But like I said way out here that could be normal.
Just my opinon and thanks for listening.
Harlin
Message: Posted by: Dennis Michael (May 1, 2011 10:10pm)
There is only one conference that leaves the egos outside and that is KIDabra. If I had to say one negative thing about KIDabra it would be the fact it runs 24/7 all week, with lots of socialization, family things to do, that exhaustion sets in. Yes, I get tired, but never to tired to help out anyone I can that come to KIDabra.

Jimbo knows this all to well! I gave my staff shirt right off my back, for such a swell guy who wanted one and they were all going.

In between breaths, there is a lot of help from many others, including "party king"...Ken Scott, News Reporter Skip Way, the counsel of Tate's wisdom, and most of all the warm and kindness from Mark and Tami. As a matter of fact, I could list them all and say what a big help they all are doing to make KIDabra such a success.

KIDabra is the best keep secret, which we are tying to let the world know about! For so many you get hooked for life!

Publishing a Journal is not an easy task and it is very difficult to keep on schedule, especially when one knows how the illness of a loved one zaps the time so quickly. I know this all too well! Everything seems to always come together, just keep that in mind.

KIDabra is coming up real fast, its only a few months away.

Dennis
Message: Posted by: Mike Maturen (May 1, 2011 10:27pm)
Trying to get an organization up and running AND growing is a monumental task for anyone. I an not a member (I generally am a stage magician), but am thinking of joining since I DO have lots of families and kids at my show. PLUS I am starting to do parties and things in order to help pay for this bad habit we call magic.

I just have to wait awhile, since I have joined both the IBM and the SAM in recent months.

Scholarships, anyone? LOL.
Message: Posted by: idomagic (May 2, 2011 1:10am)
But still, I am a new member and have barely received an email. No membership info, no magazine, just a bill to my cc and a call I made to Tami to make sure I was set up. I'm not complaining, and I look forward to the Kidabra conference if I can go dark that week, but my membership doesn't pay for the convention, it's supposed to pay for other "perks" right? Just my two-cents.
Message: Posted by: Mike Maturen (May 2, 2011 6:20am)
Agreed, Chad. There are definitely some "customer service" issues here. It sounds like they are a shoestring operation without much help. If there are family health issues (as was stated earlier), that can take up tons of time.

That being said, when running a business, all loose ends must be taken care of...even in the face of personal issues.
Message: Posted by: Skip Way (May 2, 2011 8:43am)
Membership in KIDabra has its benefits:


  • Affordable K&K liability insurance

  • Free member websites

  • The KIDabra Journal (certainly the best kidshow entertainer's journal out there)

  • Access to the annual conference and the largest live kidshow magic auction in the world

  • Direct, friendly and supportive access to nearly every top kidshow entertainer on the world market and, most important of all

  • International recognition of kidshow entertainers as true and valued peers within the greater magic community.


It's all there. It may not be valet delivered to your door - but KIDabra puts it all well within reach of any member.

If you want more, speak up. Suggest a new benefit AND explain how to provide it. Mark & Tami are always open to new ideas.
Message: Posted by: Mike Maturen (May 2, 2011 11:50am)
Quote:

On 2011-05-02 08:43, Skip Way wrote:
Membership in KIDabra has its benefits:


  • Affordable K&K liability insurance

  • Free member websites

  • The KIDabra Journal (certainly the best kidshow entertainer's journal out there)

  • Access to the annual conference and the largest live kidshow magic auction in the world

  • Direct, friendly and supportive access to nearly every top kidshow entertainer on the world market and, most important of all

  • International recognition of kidshow entertainers as true and valued peers within the greater magic community.


It's all there. It may not be valet delivered to your door - but KIDabra puts it all well within reach of any member.

If you want more, speak up. Suggest a new benefit AND explain how to provide it. Mark & Tami are always open to new ideas.


Skip:

I don't think it's the benefits that people were complaining about. It is obvious that the membership is a good value...it is the fact that folks haven't received their journal, or that new members have received zero contact since they joined 7 moths ago.

THAT is a problem that must be addressed...or members will get very frustrated. Even a giant one-time e-mail blast to all members giving a brief apology and explanation of the issue would go a long way toward keeping the membership happy.

I will likely join this organization...but I think I am going to wait until they get some of these issues ironed out...and until I have some extra cash.
Message: Posted by: Skip Way (May 2, 2011 1:50pm)
Mike, Mark & Tami send a KIDabra newsletter/email to members at the beginning of every month. As Dennis Michael posted at the beginning of this thread, the April email had this:

"So where is the Journal? by Mark and Tami Daniel

It's coming, (The Tommy James issue is next) however apologies and explanations are due. Maybe you've noticed were further behind than usual. While we mention family details briefly, and on occasion, please forgive this inside glimpse of our family news.

Since December 28th, my dad, Bob Daniel, 80, has been in and out of the hospital with complications of congestive heart failure and endless doctors appointments, 95 percent of which we, mostly Tami, accompany him to, many taking all day, often several times a week, mix in my mom, Velma, with dementia, and our lives have been hectic. We are honored to help our folks any way we can. However it's come at a price in office time. Tami is the KI Office and while she carries her Blackberry with her, the out of the office time is challenging. We are, as always, committed to the success and growth of KIDabra and we appreciate your understanding, as we work through this family time.

Renewing Your KI Membership
Thank you for renewing your membership. The majority of your membership fee goes to the publication and shipping of the terrific KIDabra Journal. We have found that with tougher economic times folks let memberships lapse assuming that they don't make a difference. Believe me you do, and are a valued part of the KIDabra family, plus renewing helps in keeping the magazine on schedule. To renew or join now go to kidabra.org and click on Join. Thanks so much and if you have already, double thanks!"

So, they ARE reaching out to members and they ARE explaining situations as they arise. If members haven't received one of these emails in seven months, they should check with Tami. There's clearly a problem with the email address on file. Although her sons would probably disagree, Tami's many skills do not include clairvoyance.

If the emails are going straight to SPAM, that's an individual member issue for not setting KIDabra as an approved email sender.

If they're receiving them and not opening them, respectfully, the fault also lies solely with the member.
Message: Posted by: harlin (May 2, 2011 2:58pm)
I finally got my journal today YEAH!!! I am happy for awhile LOL!
But I still beleive customer service needs addressing.
Tommy you look very handsome amd magical LOL
Harlin
Message: Posted by: idomagic (May 4, 2011 12:03am)
Skip,

I understand all the great benefits but I have no idea how to take advantage of any of this because there has been no communication from Kidabra. I'm not looking for any "valet" delivery, just any delivery. Let me play the part of a cranky new member, something I am not. I'm actually really low key and not too worried about it but...


  • Affordable K&K liability insurance - Awesome, how do I take advantage of it?
  • Free member websites - Where do I set this up?
  • The KIDabra Journal (certainly the best kidshow entertainer's journal out there) - Seen plenty of great reviews, unfortunately have yet to see one.
  • Access to the annual conference and the largest live kidshow magic auction in the world - I can't wait.
  • Direct, friendly and supportive access to nearly every top kidshow entertainer on the world market and, most important of all How do I find this resource? Is there a list? A website?
  • International recognition of kidshow entertainers as true and valued peers within the greater magic community. The reason for joining


So can you see where this is coming from? I was really excited to join and I must say that enthusiasm is currently feeling like a huge thud.

OK, now I know I'm getting black listed at Kidabra ;)
Message: Posted by: Skip Way (May 4, 2011 8:29am)
I hear ya, Chad - and so do Mark, Tami and those of us who play the part of cranky old supporters. :)

It looks like we may be missing something vital here; something that we long time members have some how overlooked. The information is all there - but, if it isn't reaching you and the other new members, then we have a serious disconnect somewhere.

I know that when I rejoined S.A.M., I received a VERY attractive and informative welcome package along with my new membership card and certificate. Same with the I.B.M.

Let us take a look at this and we'll get back to answering your totally non-cranky and valid concerns. :)

Thanks, Bra!
Message: Posted by: Dennis Michael (May 4, 2011 9:35am)
Sometimes it takes that third person to see things from another perspective.

I could easily find excuses, like overwelmed in work, producing a journal, getting a conference set up, etc. And missing the important pictures as was said above.

I just received my notice of my 10th year in SAM and the certificate and awarding of it at a meeting. This is another reminder of what can make KIDabra a much better organization than it all ready it is.
Message: Posted by: Mike Maturen (May 4, 2011 11:06am)
Quote:

On 2011-05-04 08:29, Skip Way wrote:
I hear ya, Chad - and so do Mark, Tami and those of us who play the part of cranky old supporters. :)

It looks like we may be missing something vital here; something that we long time members have some how overlooked. The information is all there - but, if it isn't reaching you and the other new members, then we have a serious disconnect somewhere.

I know that when I rejoined S.A.M., I received a VERY attractive and informative welcome package along with my new membership card and certificate. Same with the I.B.M.

Let us take a look at this and we'll get back to answering your totally non-cranky and valid concerns. :)

Thanks, Bra!


Skip...this is EXACTLY the point I was trying to make with my post.
Message: Posted by: Skip Way (May 4, 2011 12:17pm)
Got it, Mike! :) I had my old-timer Rosy Blinders on and didn't get it until Chad reached up and slapped them off. Then I saw things from your perspective and had a "Whoa!" moment. Sometimes, you gotta just reach out and kick us old timers in the wallet pocket to clear our vision, ya know.

I kicked Dennis in the wallet pocket and Dennis is looking for Mark's target as we speak. You two got through. Don't be surprised when we reach out for your ideas! :)

By the way, thanks for wearing soft boots!

Skip
Message: Posted by: Mike Maturen (May 4, 2011 5:38pm)
Now all I've got to do is join. Don't have the funds at the moment (since I already joined both IBM and SAM in the last couple of months).

Rest assured, I do plan to join...just as soon as I can afford it.
Message: Posted by: MikeHMagic (May 4, 2011 5:51pm)
I still belong to the IBM, I'd like to keep that going until I make order of Merlin (just 2 years away), I gave up my SAM membership and plan to keep up with Kidabra as long as possible. I don't get anywhere near the amount of information, guidance and advice with IBM (&SAM) that I do with Kidabra.

Every conference I've attended I have been treated very well, got to be friends with "the big names", yes they hang with their peers but accept and nurture everyone. Now it could just be that I'm a nice guy with a charming personality, who's humble... oh, and modest, always modest,and that's why I've made so many great friends (& mates).

The folks at Kidabra are the BESTEST around.
Message: Posted by: idomagic (May 6, 2011 2:16am)
I just hope to see something happen. There has been a ton of great dialogue the past few days and I would hate to see it end up being lip service. Especially since I just found out that I cannot go dark the week of the Kidabra confab so I'm aiming for 2012!

Still holding out that I will hear something from anyone at Kidabra! :)
Message: Posted by: magic4kids (May 6, 2011 2:55pm)
I emailed Tami yesterday regarding the Dec./Jan. issue that I still haven't received. She replied within 15 minutes and indicated that a replacement copy would be mailed to me. No complaints there! I encourage other members to do the same.
She also checked and a mailing label had been printed previously for the first mailing. I personaly think the delivery problems are on the end of printer but someone has to be held accountable. We'll see what happens...
Message: Posted by: idomagic (May 7, 2011 12:08am)
Quote:

On 2011-05-06 14:55, magic4kids wrote:
I emailed Tami yesterday regarding the Dec./Jan. issue that I still haven't received. She replied within 15 minutes and indicated that a replacement copy would be mailed to me. No complaints there! I encourage other members to do the same.
She also checked and a mailing label had been printed previously for the first mailing. I personaly think the delivery problems are on the end of printer but someone has to be held accountable. We'll see what happens...

So I joined in February, what issue would I be getting next? Would I get the Dec./Jan. or will I get Feb./Mar. at some point in the future?
Message: Posted by: Mike Maturen (May 7, 2011 11:31am)
Well, there. I did the dirty deed. I joine Kidabra, in an attempt to be able to get involved and possibly help resolve any issues.

Dennis, please let the powers-that-be know that I am available to help in any way that I can.

I look forward to a long association with this great group of magicians and entertainers!
Message: Posted by: magic4kids (May 7, 2011 12:55pm)
Quote:

On 2011-05-06 14:55, magic4kids wrote:
I emailed Tami yesterday regarding the Dec./Jan. issue that I still haven't received. She replied within 15 minutes and indicated that a replacement copy would be mailed to me. No complaints there! I encourage other members to do the same.
She also checked and a mailing label had been printed previously for the first mailing. I personaly think the delivery problems are on the end of printer but someone has to be held accountable. We'll see what happens...


Got my replacement copy today. Now I look forward to reading it!
Message: Posted by: Mike Maturen (May 7, 2011 1:27pm)
Good to hear, Magic4Kids...maybe they have ironed out the issues (pun intended).
Message: Posted by: Dennis Michael (May 7, 2011 6:04pm)
Mike,

Mark Daniels is a "lurker" and does read these posts.
Message: Posted by: Mike Maturen (May 7, 2011 6:23pm)
Quote:

On 2011-05-07 18:04, Dennis Michael wrote:
Mike,

Mark Daniels is a "lurker" and does read these posts.


That's precisely why I asked you to pass along my offer for assistance!
Message: Posted by: idomagic (May 8, 2011 11:58pm)
I received my membership card and welcome letter this weekend. All the benefits are outlined and I am happy things are moving forward. Now, if only it had arrive back in March when I joined. :thanx:
Message: Posted by: Dennis Michael (May 9, 2011 6:36am)
Chad, please remember March and the preceding months there was several family emergencies, and things seem to be back on track.

Soon you will realize we are a family, and like family we are compassionate about each other and the welfare of all. We do welcome you into that family.

Now "Come on Down" and join us as we play with lots of kid toys which will make us some money!
Message: Posted by: Mike Maturen (May 9, 2011 8:11am)
I joined just the other day. Roughly how long (barring Chad's experience) should it take to receive my member info, etc?
Message: Posted by: Dennis Michael (May 9, 2011 10:09am)
Don't know because I joined when it first was established many years ago. Before the Journal, and Insurance Group.
Message: Posted by: Mike Maturen (May 10, 2011 4:52pm)
I got a welcome e-mail today from Tami, along with my membership number. She stated that my member packet would arrive in 2-3 weeks.

Looking forward to a great and lasting relationship!
Message: Posted by: magic4kids (May 28, 2011 4:50pm)
Looks like progress is being made. Received my Feb. / Mar. issue today!
Message: Posted by: Mike Maturen (May 31, 2011 6:01pm)
...and I got mine today.
Message: Posted by: Dan Bernier (May 31, 2011 11:57pm)
Wow, I am still waiting on all my dvd's and member info, and I signed up way before you did Mike. :) Our postal service workers are about to go on strike, and it's been about three weeks waiting so far. If the strike happens...well, let's just say that I could be waiting even longer. I'm not even sure if my package has been shipped yet.

However, with that said, I am not worried about it. I know that I am in good hands. :) I am proud to be a new member, and look forward to attending my first convention.
Message: Posted by: Mike Maturen (Jun 1, 2011 12:00am)
Dan,

You might want to make a phone call. I have yet to get my member card, etc...but I got the Journal.

I won't be going to the convention this year...perhaps next. If you are going then, please let me know...I'd love to meet up!
Message: Posted by: Mike Maturen (Jun 2, 2011 8:02am)
SKIP: Excellent article in the Feb/Mar issue!

CHAD: You made it in print buddy! You are listed in the back as a new member!
Message: Posted by: Dan Bernier (Jun 3, 2011 8:55pm)
I finally got my Journal in the mail today. I Can't wait to find some time to read it.

I haven't recieved any of the dvd's I ordered though, and can't figure out why it wasn't all just mailed at the same time in one package. Oh well.
Message: Posted by: Dennis Michael (Jun 5, 2011 4:32am)
The Magazines are mailed through the publisher. Tami Daniel Sends the DVDs.
Message: Posted by: Dan Bernier (Jun 5, 2011 10:45am)
Thanks Dennis. It should be noted that the Canada postal service where I live is absolutely terrible. I am not in any big rush for the DVD's, and Tami had been in touch with me when I first joined. I can be a big baby when it comes to recieving magic products late, especially products that I am excited to receive. :)

In the meantime, I'm reading the Journal, and enjoying every minute of it.
Message: Posted by: Dennis Michael (Jun 8, 2011 9:26am)
I understand there is a "strike" in the Canadian Postal Service. I am waiting for a Computer part and it has been a week and no response.
Message: Posted by: Dan Bernier (Jun 10, 2011 10:15am)
There is no strike in Canada for postal workers, at least not all at once anyways. They are taking shifts.(lol) My postal office has not gone on strike yet, and I recieved a postcard from Kidabra about the convention. This tells me that my dvd's were not even delivered yet. I really hate it when I have to phone or email someone to try and track down my products that I purchased almost a month ago. I shouldn't have to. Someone should be getting in contact with "me" to let me know what the heck is going on. Is there still on going family problems? What the heck? Some communication from Tami would be much appreciated.
Message: Posted by: Mike Maturen (Jun 10, 2011 11:13am)
I just now received my membership card and welcome letter.

Communication DOES seem to be an issue. Perhaps they need a non-family employee that can pick up the slack and keep the lines of communication open.

As a guy who does sales for a living, I can tell you that if I communicated like this to my customers, I would have very few left after a short while.

I think our association will grow and flourish, but we need to get past these potholes before it will.
Message: Posted by: Dan Bernier (Jun 11, 2011 10:51am)
Membership card? You mean we get one of those? Wow, I am so "not" impressed.

All I have received is the Journal, and the initial automatic email sent by Tami. Oh yay, and a postcard for the convention. I have not even received any word from anyone from Kidabra. This is very sad, and very unprofessional. I am a business owner, and this type of business practice should not be exceptable. I am giving it until the end of the weekend, then I have no choice but to report it to Paypal to recover my money back before the deadline. Because I used my credit card number through paypal, I will have to notify my credit card company as well. If this is how Kidabra operates, I think I will also un-join.

Sorry, but I find this to be disrespectable to me as both a new member and first time customer. Someone should have at least the decency to contact me with some kind of explaination.
Message: Posted by: Mike Maturen (Jun 11, 2011 9:21pm)
I agree, Dan. Communication is a real problem. However, I think the mission of the organization is a good one, and I want to give them a chance. If things don't improve, I simply won't renew.

Join me in giving them a shot.
Message: Posted by: Dan Bernier (Jun 12, 2011 1:12am)
You're right Mike. I think I woke up in a bad mood.

I too think the mission of the organization is a good one, and I was quick to forget the reasons why I finally decided to join in the first place.

My last post was a bit too harsh, but there does seem to be a on going communication problem. I can be extremely understanding when I know what is going on. When I don't know what's going on, I feel left in the dark, and the dark is a lonely scary place. :)
Message: Posted by: Mike Maturen (Jun 12, 2011 8:22am)
I think perhaps a [possible solution is to have one or two volunteers (or perhaps some of the chapter presidents) pitch in to help communicate with the membership.

I know the organization is still small by comparison, but there is no reason that some form of structure can't be put into place to help with this. I think as a result, the organization will grow and flourish.
Message: Posted by: Dennis Michael (Jun 12, 2011 9:46am)
OK guys, here's my Two-cents, volunteers are welcome... How about it, I'm sure you can be a great help. Many of us are spread thin in helping. Skip Way helps with the conference, and the Journal as well as a full time performer. I help with the Chapters, this Thread, the KIDabra Website, the Journal, and the Conference, plus whatever is asked of me, and perform full-time. Why? Because we believe in the importance of this organization. I could go on and on what many of the others do to make KIDabra such a success.

Setting up and running a successful conference is not an easy task, I know this first hand.

One of the things I dislike is the spam I get from so many other organizations to all my email addresses, not just one but six or more of the same email, weekly, bi-weekly, and monthly. They go right into my junk folder.

KIDabra on the other hand, alternates, one month the Journal, and the next with a very informative newsletter. Any more than this it too would appear as spam.

Since it appears both Dan and Mike are good in customer relations, I'm sure KIDabra could use you in some way. It's easy to sit in the sidelines and make suggestions, the hard part is to follow-through with actions.

One thing I have learned from experience, is there usually is more to a story than one-side's opinion. I got complaints several-times that I never returned a birthday call. I couldn't because I didn't have caller ID and they never left a return number.
Message: Posted by: Dan Bernier (Jun 12, 2011 11:07am)
Hey Dennis, this hasn't been a positive experience so far as a new member for me. I didn't join Kidabra to see what I can do for it. I joined to see what it can do for me. I'm sure eventually I may feel like I can contribute, but I'm still feeling things out.

I too am a very busy person. I betcha Mike is too. But, we can't go around and tell our clients and customers that we had no time to communicate because we were too busy. We can't stand before our clients with the same poor excuses you used. Let me remind you that we are all busy trying to make a living. What all that has to do with bad customer service and poor communication is beyond me. Are you saying that Kidabra is incapable of running properly because you are all over worked? I wish I knew this before joining.

A very simple email from someone explaining what's going on would be not only sufficient but appreciated. The continued lack of communication is a clear sign that nothing is being done about it.

We're talking about bad communication here Dennis. It maybe easy to sit on the side lines and make suggestions, but only a good organization will actually listen to those suggestions and make appropriate changes to fix the problems. I don't have any suggestions because I don't even know what the problem is.

A good organization wouldn't just takes someone's money and then not deliver on the products, and then fail to communicate with them for over a month.

It sounds like there are some issues with Kidabra that Kidabra feels are not important enough to take serious enough to fix. It sounds like Kidabra staff are over worked, and over burdened. It sounds like Kidabra folks are just too busy with everything else that they simply do not have time to mail out peoples products that they paid for.

In other words, I'm screwed? Is that how it goes?
Message: Posted by: Dennis Michael (Jun 12, 2011 11:46am)
I sincerely apologize if my post sounded negative, it wasn't meant to be that way. I misread your post. You sounded very knowledgeable and thought you were ideal working with KIDabra.

I can't answer or speak for Mark and Tami, that would be over stepping my "bounds".

The KIDabra Staff is all volunteer and we enjoy doing what we do. The business end is handle by Mark and Tami, which I am not involved.

I'm sure there is more to this, and do know Tami was in the hospital recently. That could be a reason for not receiving an email from her. I don't know.

You are right, KIDabra is small, really small in membership considering the many thousands in SAM and IBM. This is not an excuse or justification.

I also know there has been problems with shipping to and from Canada. Donald Dunphy and I talk about this several times, where I usually get my Journal a week or two before he does, with only one exception he got the last one a week before I got mine. Also I have been waiting over two weeks for a laptop screen from a Canadian Corp, when it should have been 5-8 days. The point is there must be some extenuating circumstances here, which I wish I could help you with.

KIDabra has never ever "screwed" anyone. I will try to find out what the hold up is and PM you.
Message: Posted by: Dan Bernier (Jun 12, 2011 12:32pm)
Dennis, I too apologize.

I hope to be able to contribute to Kidabra in the future in any area I could be best utilized. I don't mean to imply that I'm just a taker, self centered at times,:) but I love to give of myself and my time. It's just that as a newbie I'm more focused on the benifits of being a member, and finding a place in this organization first.

There "is" more to the story, as I recently received an email explaining what is going on. I am very satisfied with the explanation, and feel bad as well. I was not aware of what was going on, and now that I do know I can only say that my respects go out to all those who put their heart and soul into this organization, and to those who make sacrifices for the sake of Kidabra's continued growth.

I also apologize for insinuating that I was getting screwed. My self centerness got the better of me.
Message: Posted by: Mike Maturen (Jun 12, 2011 2:05pm)
I am more than willing to help where possible, Dennis. I said so a few pages back in this thread. It was one of the reasons I joined when I did. I was going to wait til they straightened the problems out...but decided to get involved to see what I could do.

So far...no response, with the exception of your post telling me that Mark and Tami are merely "lurkers" here.

My offer stands. I have limited time, but am willing to help.
Message: Posted by: davidpaul$ (Jul 16, 2011 11:23pm)
Quote:

On 2011-06-12 11:46, Dennis Michael wrote:
I sincerely apologize if my post sounded negative, it wasn't meant to be that way. I misread your post. You sounded very knowledgeable and thought you were ideal working with KIDabra.

I can't answer or speak for Mark and Tami, that would be over stepping my "bounds".

The KIDabra Staff is all volunteer and we enjoy doing what we do. The business end is handle by Mark and Tami, which I am not involved.

I'm sure there is more to this, and do know Tami was in the hospital recently. That could be a reason for not receiving an email from her. I don't know.

You are right, KIDabra is small, really small in membership considering the many thousands in SAM and IBM. This is not an excuse or justification.

I also know there has been problems with shipping to and from Canada. Donald Dunphy and I talk about this several times, where I usually get my Journal a week or two before he does, with only one exception he got the last one a week before I got mine. Also I have been waiting over two weeks for a laptop screen from a Canadian Corp, when it should have been 5-8 days. The point is there must be some extenuating circumstances here, which I wish I could help you with.

KIDabra has never ever "screwed" anyone. I will try to find out what the hold up is and PM you.


I don't mean to add fuel to the fire but I too had the same problems a year or two ago,.....Lack of communication...no receipt of items due me, etc. I joined because, I was looking to improve in this arena and partake of what was offered. The answers/explanations given me regarding problems were different but had the same result. I just felt I was waisting my money and quite frankly I don't want to do that. The conference sounds great and everyone involved seems sincere but if I ran my business in the same manner I'd be out of business. That statement is not meant to be hurtful in any way it is just fact. I too received "several" postcards advertising the upcoming conference as well as renewal notices. My confidence is just not here to send in my money although I really would like too..........Like I mentioned on a previous post a year or so ago after being chided that there were extenuating personal issues, that it would be nice to let us know about it so that maybe we could help in some way. Oh well!
Message: Posted by: slowkneenuh (Apr 8, 2012 10:58pm)
I am/was really interested in joining this organization until I stumbled across this "old" thread. Have the communication issues been resolved? Are the benefits being delivered as advertised? It does appear to be a great orgnization to join and I am more than willing.

John
Message: Posted by: Mike Maturen (Apr 9, 2012 12:02am)
John,

Thanks for asking instead of just writing KIDabra off.

Things have improved. Being an all-volunteer organization, there are still some snags, though. I have offered to help in any way that I can...and I received an email from Mark responding to that in less than a day.

The Journal now comes in a digital edition as well as print (we get both)...that will help the Journal problems.

I think the organization is (even with the issues) well worth the money...which is why I renewed my membership last week.
Message: Posted by: Donald Dunphy (Apr 9, 2012 11:10am)
Quote:

On 2012-04-09 00:02, Mike Maturen wrote:
The Journal now comes in a digital edition as well as print (we get both)...that will help the Journal problems.


Just a small correction. The most current email, that talks about the digital edition, says something different. For this issue only (the Bruce Bray one), there will be both a digital and print issue. From that point on, there will only be digital issues. The only exception will be the annual yearbook, which will be a print edition they plan to give away to members at the Conference.

So, your membership now includes 5 digital issues and 1 printed issue.

- Donald
Message: Posted by: GaryLee (Apr 9, 2012 11:19am)
This doesn't sound like a reasonable solution to the problem.

I hope they'll make that very clear on the website.
Message: Posted by: harlin (Apr 9, 2012 11:54am)
Gary I beg to differ with you. I have been very frustrated about not receiving the journal and I am very pleased with this action. It looks like they finally realized they have a problem and are trying to find a solution. Now it is a wait and see how quickly they get caught up on back issues but I really believe this is a very positive step forward.
That being said Communication is a problem but sometimes we can only fix one problem at a time just keep moving forward.
Harlin
Message: Posted by: GaryLee (Apr 9, 2012 12:17pm)
If the journals will only be in digital form, it means I'll only be able to read it online. It may work for others, but not for me.

There is more to Kidabra than just the journals, I realize that. My position is signing up for the journals because this time in my life I do not see myself travelling over seas.

In fairness, I thinks it's of importance that this new information is posted on their website so others are not misled to believe they will recieve journals in the mail.
Message: Posted by: Donald Dunphy (Apr 9, 2012 12:21pm)
Keep in mind that the email newsletter goes to out to members and non-members, so lots of people were informed of this change. Not just the members. I'm sure that the website will be changed to share this new information, as well.

One reason it might not be changed immediately, is that Dennis is currently dealing with a loss in his family, and he's in charge of the website. So, please cut him some slack.

- Donald
Message: Posted by: GaryLee (Apr 9, 2012 12:28pm)
I'll keep him in prayer Donald.
Message: Posted by: Dennis Michael (Apr 10, 2012 7:40am)
Thanks Donald, for your card. It's almost over, Mom was buried Friday and we need to get rid of the estate, (sell the house) and fix it. It is on going and draining around here. I try to keep up with the tasks but it is hard.
Message: Posted by: Mike Maturen (Apr 10, 2012 8:24am)
Dennis,

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Message: Posted by: John Long (Apr 11, 2012 10:04pm)
"Things have improved", really?

On April 2, 2012, I wrote and called for the second time and told them that although
I joined Kidabra in the fall of 2011, the most recent issue of the journal that I received is the "yearbook" (or the Aug/Sept issue). I have not gotten the 2011 Oct/Nov, 1012 Dec/Jan, nor the 2012 Feb/Mar issues. I never heard back.

Just recently I did get the electronic version of the 2011 Oct/Nov issue; nothing else.
Message: Posted by: Mike Maturen (Apr 11, 2012 10:39pm)
I emailed KIDabra the other day and received a reply in less than 24 hours.

What email address are you using?
Message: Posted by: John Long (Apr 12, 2012 10:11am)
I replied to the same email that Tami wrote to me (after I first joined)

Kidabraconf@aol.com
Message: Posted by: John Long (Nov 18, 2012 4:51pm)
I seem to have more issues with Kidabra - Although I first joined just over a year ago, I have not gotten any notice about renewing. Aren't notices sent? or have I been forgotten??

I sent an email to Tami about a week ago about this, but have not heard back from her.

John
Message: Posted by: Mike Maturen (Nov 20, 2012 2:57pm)
Notices are generally sent out. I got mine a month or so before I renewed.
Message: Posted by: John Long (Nov 20, 2012 4:05pm)
Thanks for the info, but I believe I'm 13 months into my 1 year subscription, and have not seen any notice.
Message: Posted by: John Long (Apr 28, 2013 10:11am)
18 months and counting

I've called, I've emailed... no response
Message: Posted by: MT (Apr 28, 2013 7:48pm)
Sorry to hear that John
Message: Posted by: davidpaul$ (Apr 28, 2013 8:43pm)
I experienced the same... no contact.. no magazine...nothing...
My money was taken though....needless to say I never renewed.
Message: Posted by: Trekdad (Apr 29, 2013 8:16am)
Same here. I received one digital magazine and nothing else. I just reached out on the website contact form again, but the last year was essentially a waste for me.
Message: Posted by: Mike Maturen (Apr 29, 2013 9:00am)
I am, unfortunately, in the same boat. I have received a few of the digital journals...which are generally a great resource. My offer to assist in any way (including as a contributor to the journal) has gone unanswered. I am not willing to give up hope, though.

The new website looks very good.

I will continue to keep Mark and Tami in my prayers...and renew my offer to assist.

But with money being excruciatingly tight right now, I am going to have to evaluate if this is money well spent.

I truly hope that it is so.
Message: Posted by: Mike Maturen (Apr 30, 2013 11:45am)
Journal 8.2 just arrived in my E-Mail. It went, however, to my SPAM box.

Might I suggest that those of you who have not received anything, go into your SPAM box (if you haven't already done so) and look there? You might find what you have been missing!
Message: Posted by: Steve Hook (May 22, 2013 7:00pm)
Also, you may want to put the KIDabra URL in your browser's "safe" list to keep it from getting filtered into the spam folder.

A mass-mailing like this to many people at one time will look like spam to some browsers.