Welcome to the Chicago Doctor Who Meetup group, where Doctor Who fans of all ages can gather, socialize, watch Doctor Who, and basically meet like-minded people. We're cool like that.
We work hard to be an inclusive, positive group for everyone who attends. In that regard, we follow Meetup Community Guidelines and have our own code of conduct. Here are some general guidelines to ensure a more positive experience.
It's OK to RSVP "No" If You Can't Make It - in fact, we honestly don't take it it personally - we understand that things happen. When you change your RSVP to "no", you are making sure that a slot opens for someone else to come in, and we appreciate that. We try to accommodate everyone, so we'll hopefully see you at another event. If you can't make it, please change your RSVP to make a slot available for another member. If you have questions, touch base with the Organizer via e-mail.
Event Cancellation/Rescheduling Policy - Chicago Doctor Who Meetup events may be rescheduled with minimal notice due to change in venue/conflicts/etc; whenever possible, members will be notified within a reasonable period of time when this happens. In addition, if fewer than four people have RSVPed for a particular event, the event will be canceled within 48 hours, and those members will be notified via e-mail. (A general e-mail will be sent to the group at least one day before the Meetup indicating that the event is canceled).
Be Respectful of Others - And Your Organizers - Whether online or offline, let's be sure we respect each other with courtesy, dignity, and respect. That includes everyone from new members to venue staff, as well as the Organizing team. When it comes to RSVP closings, moving people off of waiting lists, etc., the Organizing Team has the final word. We work hard as volunteers to insure the greatest good for the greatest number. Insistence on requesting specific locations (such as the perennial "Why don't you have meetups in *****?") and/or episodes, arguing with organizers, and other behaviors which may seem innocuous are disruptive and detrimental to the welfare of the group. (This policy also covers our Facebook page as well). Members who are continually disruptive and disrespectful may be removed at the Organizer's discretion.
Harassment is never OK - Like many other fan-based organizations and conventions, the Chicago Doctor Who Meetup Group is dedicated to providing a harassment-free and positive experience for everyone. In that spirit, we encourage you to read our code of conduct. (Words in bold are a direct link)
If You Can, Support the Meetup - Although we hold a twice-a-year fundraiser (in February and August) for Meetup hosting fees, we encourage members to either donate an optional $5/year member dues or consider becoming a Patreon sponsor.
If you know of any great Who-themed events coming up, and/or have ideas, please contact the Organizing Team directly. Not only does this help us stay current, but also provides opportunities for Meetup members who can't make our regular events.
We're always looking for help in organizing events, partnerships with other like-minded meetups, and general help (finding venues, event ideas, sponsorships, etc), so please drop us a line if interested.
Support Your Local Businesses - Many of our meetups take place in public venues: restaurants, shops, etc. Although not mandatory, please consider (if you are able) making a small purchase to show your support(And also tip your serving staff well). Think of it as a way to support local business....and to encourage them to hold events with us in the future.
No Spoilers - We're cool with discussing upcoming episodes and highlights, but please, no spoilers about episodes in production and/or which are yet to be transmitted. Many of us look forward to catching newer episodes and be surprised. So any notes on our Facebook page and/or comments that have spoiler-y type headlines may be deleted by our Organizing team. But anything previously released/transmitted, whether on BBC America, DVD, or other venue, are fair game for spoilers and discussion. All we ask is that you provide a spoiler warning. (And no, the title's not enough, e.g., "The Robots of Death involves, well, robots and death.")
Other than that, the only major guideline is....have fun.
Thanks for being part of Chicago Doctor Who Meetup