Half Moon Seminars - opinion

Half Moon is another seminar company, just like several of the others out there. They find speakers in your subject and do just what they are doing. They charge a bundle and no lunch like you say. It might be a good idea or at least a thought to send one person. That person can decide if they like him and then see if you can contract with that speaker directly to do a presentation for your firm (or bring in some other people too). I don't believe they are on half-moon's payroll, and I imagine most of these guys have a "day-job" so I wouldn't think it unethical. They probably pay the guy his expenses and a few bucks, and they are making a bundle without even catering lunch.

My opinion.

Right on Mark, that is a great suggestion. It's just hard to fathom charging so much, but I guess my local and state chapter of Land Surveyor's Association has spoiled us with great speakers for minimal attendance cost (plus breakfast, lunch, and beers after). 🙂

> .... my local and state chapter of Land Surveyor's Association has spoiled us with great speakers for minimal attendance cost (plus breakfast, lunch, and beers after). 🙂

That's because they are non-profit; they are looking out for your best interest, not your money.

It's hard to beat an orginization that does that.

Yes Mike, and it would be a good way to scout new speakers for your local or state organization to hire for their talks, instead of having the same ones come around year after year.

My boss and I were approached by them last year. I was going to present but they rescheduled it in conflict with the Washington exam. No way was I going to put the packet together and present two weeks before the test.
They were Professional in all communications but it didn't get far enough to add much more..

I went to a Half Moon seminar last year in Austin Texas. The one I went to was over land and water rights and board rules. I think they had about 4 different speakers and 3 I think were lawyers. I would go to another seminar that Half Moon put together. I think they offer a discount if you have three or more sign up at the same time.

Was there good material handed out at the seminar (i.e. packets or folders of presentation/material)? Sometimes that's worth it all in itself. Good reference material.

:good: :good:

Just don't go to any "Half Baked" seminars.

I have never attended a seminar put on by them, but I have attended a seminar where Mr. Horton was the speaker.

He very knowledgeable, and is really good at explaining the topic at hand. He was a speaker at the Kentucky Association's conference earlier this year, and is working with them for more seminars in the next few months. I wish they were a little closer, and I would attend.

I would not hesitate to attend a seminar where Mr. Horton is the speaker.

I agree with this. I attended a seminar of his in Centralia, Illinois yesterday. He does a great job.

It does make a big difference who the speakers are.

I was a presenter at three of Half Moon's seminars between 2003 and 2006. They were professional and ethical throughout the process. They asked me to provide detailed written material on the subjects I spoke on. That material, and corresponding material from the other presenters, was made up into bound books for the attendees.

At that time Half Moon offered an optional package including the seminar book and a complete audio recording of the presentations for people who were unable to attend. The price was similar to what they charged for actually attending. I don't know whether that option is still available.

I didn't get much money for presenting compared to what they charged for the seminar. Any seminar company has to make some money to stay in business. Naturally a seminar put on by a state or local society will be a better deal, as long as the presenters are good.

There was good reference material, each speaker provided their own, some were better than others.

> I would not hesitate to attend a seminar where Mr. Horton is the speaker.

I would agree completely with Jimmy's statement.

We (KAPS) have been able to get Professor Horton to present several times for our fall seminars and conferences. He is an excellent presenter in that he engages the audience and also provides very clear explanations.

Jimmy and Tommy - keep in mind that our conference will be in Bowling Green this coming February. Much closer to your end of the Tennessee than usual.

Jon,

Thanks for the heads up, and the advice for the Kentucky study material. I hope to be able to attend.

Take care,
Jimmy