Frequently Asked Questions

GENERAL

• Why is it called Califur?
  Partially because we're lazy and this was the only name suggested that everyone could agree on. But we wanted to tie in to ConFurence and carry its history forward. And it combines California and Furry, so why not.
• Does the hotel have high-speed internet access?
  Yes! They have wired and wireless in the guest rooms and wireless in some public guest areas. Pricing is uncertain at this time. See more about our hotel on the hotel page.
• Is there a charge for parking?
  There is NO CHARGE for Hotel Guests, however there a charge for attendees not staying at the hotel. See our hotel page for details.

PHOTOGRAPHY

• I heard that I'm not allowed to film at the convention. Is that true?
  Of course not! You are welcome to take photographs and video for personal use. Just remember that video or audio footage from Califur cannot be broadcast or used commercially without the written permission of FENEC Adventures.
• I don't want my picture taken at all. How can I avoid it?
  If you explicitly ask someone not to take your picture, the photographer should refrain from doing so; however, please be aware that many photographs are taken in the common areas of the convention, and that video footage for Califur's highlight tape will be recorded at random times and locations. We will not record any footage in any private hotel rooms or in any other space where a Califur member has a reasonable expectation of privacy, unless permission is obtained from those present.

PROGRAMMING

• What kind of programming will you have?
  We have a very diverse slate of programs ranging from workshops to panel discussions to live entertainment. We will post an exact schedule as it is formed, for now take a look at some of the exciting activities planned on our Events page.
• What's a SIG or Meet?
  A Special Interest Group meeting, an open discussion where everyone gets to have a say - at least on the topic at paw!
• Where's the Gaming going on? Where's the Internet Lounge? Where's the Video Theater?
  Check our handy map (located in your pocket program). It's all listed there. But if you're lost, don't worry. This year it's easy to find things. Just wander around until you find it or find someone to ask.

• Please contact us for any additional inquiries about programming.
• Can I host a panel/SIG/meet?
  Yes please! In most cases we are happy to accept offers of help. Please contact our programming department with what you would like to do and when you would like to do it.

REGISTRATION

• Can I register at the door? Can I save money by registering early?
  Of course! Registration at the door will be $45. Early birds can register online to take advantage of our pre-reg discounts, the sooner you register the more you can save. Pre-reg is either $35 or $40, depending on when you register. Oh, and if you've been to Califur before you know doing pre-reg has other benifits too.

• Can I upgrade my membership to a Sponsor or Patron? How much does it cost, and how do I arrange for one?
  You can upgrade your membership at any time! It's as easy as going through the online registration system! You can also upgrade via mail, just let us know what your current membership level is and the level to which you wish to upgrade. Enclose payment for the difference in the form of a check, money order, or a legible photocopy of your credit card (along with its billing address). If upgrading to a Sponsor or a Patron, make sure to tell us what your T-shirt size is!

If you're not sure if you will be attending, try our "Supporting Membership" (a non-attending membership) which you can upgrade at the con for the difference in cost for a full attending membership.

• I registered three weeks ago and have heard nothing. What's going on?
  Califur does not send a registration confirmation. It keeps our costs lower, saves electrons, and saves you money!

VOLUNTEERS

• How can I help?
  It's simple. Just sign up at the Conops staffing table or volunteer table by registration during the convention, or contact us ahead of time. We'll find something for you to do -- trust us!
• I want to volunteer my services for a specific function. Who do I contact?
  Contact us and you will be put in touch with the correct people.
• I want to volunteer my services as a medical professional to run a first aid station. How do I go about it?
  Thank you for offering! Please contact us to discuss details.
• What do I get for volunteering?
  That's the GOOD part! All that hard work doesn't go unappreciated, and the more you work the more you can get. Check our Volunteer page for details.

CONBOOK

• Can I Help With the Conbook?
  Each year the Conbook is created from contributions from artists and authors willing to share their creative take on our theme. If you want to submit to this year's Conbook, follow the Submission Guidelines and upload your file to our Conbook Submission form. You may also mail in submissions. (For file formats and other details, please see our guidelines).
• When is the deadline for submissions?
  Start submitting now! Deadlines will appear suddenly when least expected!
  Please send all mail-in submissions at least one week prior to the submission deadline for adequate mailing time.
• Where do I send submissions?
  We encourage electronic submissions.
  Only Conbook-related material should be sent to:

  Califur 5 - Conbook Submissions
  c/o Rainhopper Roo
  616 S. Adria,
  Anaheim, CA 92802

• Can I submit work created by someone else?
  We can only accept works from their creator, sorry. But if you know someone's material that's good, send us a message and we might be able to convince them to volunteer their creation. Or if you know them, talk them into sending it in!

MISCELLANEOUS

• What is Califur's policy on room parties?
  Califur takes the view that what happens in private hotel rooms is not our business; however, if we receive reports that illegal activity is taking place therein, such as the serving of alcohol to persons under 21 years of age, we have both moral and legal responsibility to take action. Room parties are at the discression of the hotel, however, they are usually fine provided that they do not cause sufficient noise as to warrant complaints and are completely contained within the appropriate room. Also, please observe all hotel rules.
• What forms of payment are accepted at Califur?
  We accept PayPal, Cash (U.S. currency only), personal checks with appropriate I.D., and travelers' checks.
• How does Califur handle bounced checks?
  We must charge a $30 fee for each returned check (reflecting in part what our bank charges us). Every person who bounces a check will be given ample opportunity to settle the debt, along with the bounced-check fee. Membership to Califur will be suspended until such time that all monetary debts are settled.